The way we consume content and media has vastly shifted over the last few decades.
When it comes to listening to music, we transitioned from carrying multiple CDs around to storing our entire music library on an iPod to now taking advantage of audio streaming services, like Spotify and Apple Music.
In addition to music, many of us watch movies and television shows using an OTT platform.
An over-the-top (OTT) platform is a term that explains the delivery method of film or television content over the internet, across various devices, without the need for traditional cable or satellite.
The term over-the-top references a content provider going over the top of, or bypassing, existing internet services. Brands and creators often choose OTT platforms because they offer complete control over the content, user experience, app monetization efforts, and related data.
OTT is relatively new to consumers and brands, but several companies are entering the OTT space, offering various consumer options and more ad inventory for marketers. Due to increased popularity, more users are “cutting the cord” on traditional television services like cable and moving toward online-only media consumption.
If a user wants to stream content using an OTT platform, all that’s needed is a high-speed internet connection and a device that supports apps and browsers.
For instance, OTT content can be delivered on:
Once a media broadcaster uploads content to an OTT platform, the video data is transmitted through content delivery network (CDN) software. Then, viewers choose content from the video gallery to stream. Once selected, the HTTP Live Streaming (HSL) video player pulls the content from the CDN’s server via the internet.
A subscription to a TV service provider isn’t needed to enjoy content on an OTT platform, but a user may require a subscription to their preferred OTT platform. For example, viewers who watch content on Netflix, Peacock, and Disney+ have to pay a monthly or yearly subscription. Other OTT solution companies, like Amazon Prime Video, don’t have subscription fees but generate revenue by showing ads while users watch specific content.
In addition to offering video-on-demand (VOD) content, like movies and television, OTT platforms also provide live TV content, such as sporting events or award shows – all in real time.
Platforms often support audio streaming for radio stations, podcasts, as well as messaging services like Skype and WeChat. OTT platforms can also offer voice calling features (VOIP) that integrate with mobile phone networks.
people around the world will use OTT services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video.
Source: Insider Intelligence
It’s common for users to confuse using OTT platforms for streaming with standard video streaming, but the two are very different.
An OTT platform is a direct-to-consumer video content platform. Premium content from providers like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ is available via an OTT platform for customers to stream on-demand. No matter the provider, OTT content can be streamed on various devices. No cable TV subscription is needed to watch high-quality content.
Video streaming is when content is streamed across devices like computers, smart TVs, mobile devices, and OTT devices. YouTube is the most common video streaming platform, as it’s a social video platform designed to allow everyday consumers to share moments caught on video.
When considering adding your company’s content to an OTT platform, ensure it has these specific features.
Some of the benefits of choosing an OTT platform are:
Users can create their own media streaming services with OTT platforms. These services have become increasingly popular as content channels since creators can share their work without leaning on traditional cable or broadcasting platforms. And most don’t require hardware like a cable box.
These platforms are one of the reasons internet streaming services are so popular, plus they can include features for subscription management, built-in advertising, and content management.
To qualify for inclusion in the OTT platforms category, a product must:
* Below are the top five leading OTT platforms from G2’s Winter 2023 Grid® Report. Some reviews may be edited for clarity.
Muvi is a software-as-a-service OTT platform that hosts video and audio content owners. With Muvi, it’s easy to launch branded OTT multi-screen video and audio streaming across devices.
“The help I received from the Muvi team was the most valuable to me. They were able to help me every step of the way through the process and also were available to our third-party reps to make sure the system worked with other programs. I never got a no’ from Muvi. I always received a “We'll look into it and find out.” If something couldn't be done, they were upfront about it, but mostly my requests were handled and sometimes even enhanced by their team.”
- Muvi Review, Lauren W., Jul 27, 2022
“The content management system (CMS) can perhaps be made more accessible. It has minor issues they are working on, and over time, I have seen improvements.”
- Muvi Review, Luciano C., Jun 23, 2022
Uscreen is an all-in-one solution that simplifies creating your own video and selling it online. It features live streaming, monetization, a video CMS, and security to keep videos and user data safe.
“Uscreen Customer Support is the BEST I have experienced in my 40-year high-tech career! They are prompt, thorough, and always personalize their responses. No canned responses, which means I know a real person is reading my messages.”
- Uscreen Review, Sherry Z., Apr 5, 2022
“I was not a fan of the user dashboard. It was a bit confusing at times. In addition, I had trouble figuring out the marketing tools to retain my customers. I'd like to see this become more user-friendly. My subscribers also had difficulty accessing their accounts at times.”
- Uscreen Review, Cornelius J., Sept 16, 2022
LIVEBOX is for storing video, web conferencing, transcoding, and distributing various types of media. Creators can simply add on-demand videos and categorize them under menus and genres. It has a server, load balancer, and a long list of features users need to launch their content.
“I like that the software is an all-in-one video, content management, storage, and streaming platform. It integrates every possible video streaming service I may have all into one application.”
- LIVEBOX Review, Frandy D., Nov 10, 2022
“The main thing which I dislike about LIVEBOX is its UI/UX. For people like me, it’s very time-consuming to understand the software’s UI and UX.”
- LIVEBOX Review, Verified User in Accounting, Nov 4, 2022
Soprano.ai is the ultimate creator platform, connecting users directly to their fanbase by providing ways to promote their own apps, offer tiered subscriptions, sell merch, and develop their own coin system. Soprano.ai does it all.
“I had no trouble using this platform for OTT video; it’s pretty simple. When I've sold things in the past, it has been far more straightforward for me to interact with customers and showcase products. The level of brand engagement is higher than ever. Without needing to invest millions of dollars in coding development, it allows one to compete with Shopify and Netflix, simultaneously.”
- Soprano.ai Review, Chintan P., Nov 4, 2022
“The focus is 100% on content creators, so you need to be famous or have a large number of followers to use this platform. I don't think this tool will be useful for a person who is just starting out in this field.”
- Soprano.ai Review, Rocío M., Nov 7, 2022
Brands and creators looking to launch their own white-label video subscription channel should consider Vimeo OTT. Subscribers can easily access video content for free, for purchase, or for rent.
“The most helpful thing about Vimeo OTT is that we can sell content directly from our website and provide design, social media integration, and SEO analytics. It is just perfect for everyone out there with similar interests.”
- Vimeo OTT Review, Niraj S., Oct 11, 2022
“Vimeo OTT is overpriced for what it offers. Analytics are limited. Some analytics are hidden unless you get custom reports from Vimeo OTT staff.”
- Vimeo OTT Review, Matkai B., Sept 15, 2021
Whether it’s live TV or the latest movie everyone is talking about at work, OTT platforms give you a premium viewing experience – and all you need is an internet connection! Whether you’re a brand looking to add video content to an OTT platform or a user ready to stream the latest viral television show, these platforms have changed how we consume content.
Before adding new content to an OTT platform, learn the ins and outs of video effects to master video production and filmmaking.
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