Apple has started using the so-called “edge caching” technology to improve its own streaming service, Apple TV Plus, and presumably other content-related services.
Apple has launched a new pilot program to improve Apple TV Plus and more. However, only certain companies can participate. According to the Introduction:
Fast. Faster. Fastest.
Your customers deserve the best possible content delivery. Apple Edge Cache (AEC) is Apple-supplied and managed hardware for use on our ISP partners' networks to deliver certain Apple content directly to our mutual customers.
Apple
Edge caching technology allows content to be delivered to users faster and much more efficiently by creating a cache on local servers. The technology uses Internet service provider (ISP) networks and servers to store content for a short period of time that is accessed by other users on the same network. For example, if two people on the same network wanted to access the same movie - i.e. start a stream - this would trigger two pings to the content provider's server.
Both consumers and Apple benefit
With edge caching technology, this is no longer necessary because the requests are bundled. Edge caching makes the whole thing more efficient and increases speed. Users can access the content faster while reducing server load. The respective Internet Service Provider (ISP) will be able to store the content for a period of time, which will be reused in the event of a new ping. This means that edge caching benefits not only Apple but also consumers. By reducing latency, the overall streaming experience is significantly improved. Apple now plans to catch up with competitors such as Netflix and Amazon, as they already use similar technology. (Photo by monsitj / Bigstockphoto)
