Brightcove is a leading video platform that provides powerful tools for managing and distributing video content. One of its advanced features includes automated video highlights extraction, which allows content creators to generate engaging clips automatically. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process to set up automated highlights extraction in Brightcove.

Prerequisites for Setup

  • Active Brightcove account with appropriate permissions
  • Basic understanding of Brightcove Video Cloud platform
  • API access enabled for your account
  • Familiarity with video editing and highlights concepts

Step 1: Enable Highlights Extraction API

Log in to your Brightcove account and navigate to the API Management section. Ensure that the Highlights Extraction API is enabled for your account. If not, request access from Brightcove support or enable it through your account settings.

Step 2: Generate API Credentials

In the API Management area, create a new API key with permissions for Highlights Extraction. Save the API key and secret securely, as you will need these for authentication in your setup process.

Important:

Keep your API credentials confidential to prevent unauthorized access.

Step 3: Configure Highlights Extraction Settings

Access the Highlights Extraction settings within your Brightcove dashboard. Define parameters such as:

  • Highlight duration (e.g., 15 seconds)
  • Detection sensitivity
  • Content types to analyze (e.g., speech, motion)
  • Output format and storage location

Step 4: Set Up Automated Workflow

Create an automated workflow using Brightcove's workflow automation tools or integrate with external services like Zapier or custom scripts. This workflow should trigger when a new video is uploaded or at scheduled intervals.

Sample Workflow Trigger:

When a new video is uploaded to a specific playlist or channel, initiate the highlights extraction process automatically.

Step 5: Initiate Highlights Extraction

Use the Brightcove API to start the highlights extraction process. Send a POST request with your video ID and configuration parameters. Confirm the request was successful and note the extraction job ID for tracking.

Step 6: Monitor and Retrieve Highlights

Track the progress of the highlights extraction job via API calls. Once completed, retrieve the generated highlight clips from the specified storage location or Brightcove media library.

Step 7: Automate Distribution

Set up additional automation to distribute highlights across your platforms, such as social media, websites, or email newsletters. Use Brightcove's embedding tools or API integrations to streamline sharing.

Conclusion

Automating video highlights extraction in Brightcove enhances content engagement and saves time. By following these steps—enabling APIs, configuring settings, setting up workflows, and automating distribution—you can efficiently generate and share compelling video clips with your audience.