Multi-Channel Playout: Up to 4 Channels on One System

A key highlight in just:play pro 2026 and just:live pro 2026 is the new multi-channel playout capability, supporting up to four channels per system. 

Users can now run up to four independent Just Out engine instances on a single system, enabling highly efficient multi-channel playout from one Apple silicon workstation. This approach delivers significant benefits for broadcasters and media facilities seeking to maximize output channel density, reduce hardware footprint, and build more cost-efficient playout infrastructures. A new setup wizard further simplifies configuration by guiding users through single- or multi-channel setups right from the outset.

Enhanced HLS Push Output for Direct Streaming Workflows 

To further support modern streaming operations, just:play pro 2026 and just:live pro 2026 feature an enhanced HLS Push output. Built directly into the Just Out engine, this capability enables HLS segments and manifests to be pushed straight to a remote server via HTTP or HTTPS, with simplified configuration for platforms such as YouTube.

Because the streaming functionality is natively integrated into the ToolsOnAir playout engine, there is no need for any dedicated third-party application to route the signal through an additional software layer. This results in a more streamlined, reliable, and professional workflow, combining the proven stability of traditional broadcast playout with the demands of modern streaming delivery.

Enhanced Input and Output Format Handling 

The 2026 release further enhances support for multiple input and output formats, including mixed configurations, providing greater flexibility when designing complex channel workflows. Whether managing diverse source formats, multiple outputs, or a combination of baseband and IP-based workflows, the new version enables users to adapt more easily to evolving operational requirements.

Improved Manual Interaction & Emergency Live Input Switching

The 2026 release introduces key workflow enhancements designed to increase operational agility. A standout feature is the implementation of video-layer visibility controls, which function as an instantaneous toggle for live inputs. When configured for live operation, hiding the active video layer automatically reveals the underlying live signal, enabling seamless switchover from scheduled content to breaking news coverage - and back again. 

This approach establishes a highly efficient emergency broadcast workflow without requiring manual intervention. In addition, just:play pro 2026 now supports direct navigation to selected video files, allowing operators to jump instantly to specific assets. Together, these enhancements significantly improve response times and streamline navigation within complex playout environments.

Enhanced Multi-Viewer Capabilities for Control Room Efficiency

The multi-viewer layout has been significantly enhanced to maximize control room efficiency. Previously unused viewer slots can now be populated with customizable information widgets, including clocks, countdowns, timers, stopwatches, images, web pages, event timelines, and channel status indicators. This evolution transforms the multi-viewer into a versatile operational dashboard - serving not only as a confidence monitor, but also as a centralized hub for channel-related information and real-time situational awareness.

NDI 6.3 and Enhanced IP Workflow Support

ToolsOnAir continues to advance IP-based production and playout support with the update to NDI 6.3, delivering improved performance and stability for both NDI sources and outputs. Enhanced support for RGBA over NDI enables Fill + Key workflows with alpha channels for compatible receivers, providing flexibility for graphics-intensive environments and modern IP-based delivery.