Live Streaming Equipment at NAB 2025: Enhanced Performance and Durability

NAB 2025 showcased exciting developments in live streaming gear, with a strong focus on innovation and efficiency. Despite trade tariff concerns outside, inside the Las Vegas Convention Center, companies were all about doing more, better, and faster.

Cloud solutions were a big highlight, offering integrated capabilities locally and remotely. Personally, I still believe in the power of using your local setup as a “cloud” to simplify operations. With tasks like graphics being run remotely, the need for on-site personnel is reduced, saving on travel expenses. Cloud-connected communication tools make it feel like your remote crew is right there with you.

One trend that caught my eye was the evolution of small, all-in-one solutions. Companies like YoloLiv, Magewell, and BirdDog are pushing the boundaries of what these devices can do. For example, YoloLiv’s YoloBox Extreme boasts eight physical HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs on an 11″ Android Tablet, providing full 4K UHD production capabilities.

Magewell showcased the Director One, an improved version of their Director Mini, with added features like internal cellular connectivity, a larger screen, and full-size HDMI output. BirdDog introduced the MAKI Studio Control Surface, a handy tool for mixing, titling, recording, and streaming multiple NDI sources – creating a versatile all-in-one live streaming production studio.

Cloud connectivity was another major theme at NAB 2025, with NDI, BirdDog, and PTZ Optics leading the charge. NDI-6’s hardware Bridge enables encrypted NDI streams over WAN without a dedicated computer bridge, BirdDog Connect integrates NDI and SRT for low-latency video, and PTZ Optics introduced HIVE for managing multiple cameras and operators in a cloud-based control room.

With reliable broadband, cellular, terrestrial, and satellite connections becoming more accessible, the possibilities for remote production are expanding. By utilizing remote crew and gear, productions can achieve faster, cheaper, and more reliable results without the need for physical presence in one location.

As the industry continues to evolve, the question remains – where do we go from here? Exciting times lie ahead for live streaming enthusiasts and professionals alike.