Web-based Real Time Communication (WebRTC) protocols are increasingly being used around the world as the fastest and easiest way to connect video clients for a variety of purposes. WebRTC is such a convenient tool because instead of being based on a specific program, WebRTC delivers video through a browser-based client. That means two users can communicate without any special software or equipment, which has sparked rapid innovation within the Industry. Now the WebRTC community is growing rapidly, and the following headlines highlight some of the largest developments from the past week alone.
One company that has embraced WebRTC to enhance its business strategy is Pizza Hut. While the website is already a powerful tool for quickly and easily ordering a customized pie, but the company has recently expressed interest in embedding WebRTC to evolve from a standard brick-and-mortar company to a home-based agent strategy. Not only would it significantly reduce the operating expenses of Pizza Hut by eliminating most amenities for dine-in customers, but customers using WebRTC could simply tell the operator at the other end of a video call exactly the kind of pizza that they want. With support from the Internet of Things, a home-based WebRTC model could completely redefine Pizza Hut as a business.
Meanwhile Ericsson, one of the world's largest supporters of WebRTC, has also made a bold move by making two of their largest WebRTC developments available for free as open source tools. The first program, called Bowser, is a simple Web browser that is designed to fully accommodate WebRTC protocols. Already, it is known as the only iOS compatible browser that can support WebRTC protocols, so its free availability will open the floodgates on iOS WebRTC innovation. Additionally, the company released the OpenWebRTC framework that is used for Bowser as an open source tool, which will further spur innovation in the industry.
Finally, WebRTC is proving to be one of the greatest tools in the fight against Ebola, among other diseases. With the first identified case of Ebola in Dallas, TX, many people are afraid to even go outside to risk contact with the infected. However, WebRTC can be used in conjunction with telemedicine practices to help doctors collaborate and even interact with patients without any actual physical contact. WebRTC is easy to set up and can reach patients in minutes, which is why it is being hailed as a “savior app” – especially in urban areas with broadband Internet access.
