Vreel Founder Interview: Insights & Future of VR
An Interview with Eoin, Founder of Vreel
Mysticgeek: Let’s begin with your role at Vreel and how long you’ve been involved in its development.
Eoin: I am the Founder. My work on what would become Vreel started in late March with the creation of a server-side DivX converter, initially projected for completion by late April. This project was conceived as a means to expand my expertise in server-side applications and broader web development principles.
The initial intention was to integrate the DivX webplayer into the open-source CMS, Joomla!. At that point, Vreel was envisioned as a functional, though smaller-scale, alternative to Stage6. However, the project’s scope quickly expanded beyond the original plan.
Early Challenges and Collaboration with DivX
DivX contacted me promptly regarding the use of “DivXit” in the URL, expressing their concerns. I proactively reached out to them with numerous inquiries about potential legal ramifications. After discussions with DivX, I transferred the domain “DivXit.net,” which is now in the process of being redirected to DivX’s name servers.
DivX extended their best wishes for the rebranded Vreel. Following this, activity surged dramatically. Website traffic increased significantly, and Limelight reached out to discuss CDN solutions. Consequently, I began recruiting staff to accelerate development and transition away from an open-source CMS towards a custom-built platform.
Vreel’s Vision and Future Goals
Mysticgeek: What is your vision for Vreel? How do you perceive its current state, and what are your aspirations for its future?
Eoin: Currently, Vreel is in its early stages of development, with a substantial amount of work still ahead. Our developers are dedicated to ensuring everything functions optimally as quickly as possible. The closed beta testing phase has provided valuable insights into the potential scale of Vreel, making accurate growth projections challenging.
Had I been asked in May about anticipated visitor numbers a year from then, I would have estimated 10,000 daily. We are presently exceeding that figure and anticipate a doubling of that number in the coming weeks.
Drawing Inspiration from the Past
Looking ahead, I draw parallels to Stage6. It represented a cutting-edge solution in the online video landscape – faster, visually appealing, and boasting a dedicated community. Our goal is to recapture that essence and build upon it, striving to establish Vreel as the premier video platform for our growing user base.
The Development Process and Beta Testing
Mysticgeek: Given my interactions with the Vreel team, it’s clear everyone is working diligently. Could you describe the effort, preparation, and hours invested in preparing for a successful public launch?
Eoin: The beta testers have been invaluable. Their suggestions, feedback, and bug reports from our limited beta group have been a significant contribution to our progress.
We are currently focused on resolving bugs and ensuring all features and modules are fully operational for the wider public release – a complex undertaking. However, countless sleepless nights are a common occurrence in such endeavors.
Addressing the Stage6 Controversy and DivX Partnership
Mysticgeek: Could you briefly explain the “controversy” surrounding Stage6 and DivX, and what Vreel will offer now that you have an official agreement with them?
Eoin: To be frank, my understanding of the Stage6 closure is comparable to that of the general public. The platform was operational one day and discontinued the next, without a definitive explanation beyond stating that maintaining it was “very expensive.” DivX was also facing a potential legal challenge from UMG at the time of the shutdown.
Rumors also circulated regarding a purchase offer from Live Universe, which DivX reportedly declined.
Clarifying Ownership and Permissions
It’s important to clarify that Vreel does not hold any commercial ownership rights over the DivX webplayer or codec; these remain the exclusive property of DivX. DivX has granted us permission to utilize their codec and webplayer within the Vreel video environment, enabling us to create a robust High Definition video platform while integrating our own unique features.
Launch Timeline and Future Plans
Mysticgeek: Many are eagerly awaiting the public launch of Vreel. Can you provide an estimated timeframe?
Eoin: The anticipation is certainly mutual! Currently, we are addressing the issues identified during closed beta testing, specifically aspect ratio problems – ensuring files uploaded in 4:3 or 16:9 display correctly – and optimizing conversion speeds. We aim to resolve these issues before initiating an open beta.
As I’m sure you’ll agree, a strong first impression is crucial, and I would prefer a slight delay to ensure a fully functional platform.
Progress and Open Beta Testing
Progress is currently excellent. We anticipate resolving these issues within the next few days, alongside testing a range of new features. Open beta testing will commence once these major issues are addressed, but in the meantime, we are continuously accepting users into our closed beta program.
Mysticgeek: Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions!
Eoin: You’re welcome, thank you for having me!