Over the last few years, Internet TV services have undergone constant evolution, continuously diversifying their offerings and access formats. Audiovisual content is no longer distributed by a select few, and now forms a colossal network that is constantly incorporating more players. In this transformation, OTT (over-the-top) services have played a significant role in opening up content transmission channels.
But what is OTT? "Over-the-top" can be interpreted as "bypassing," and in this context, it refers to the use of public internet networks without the need for an intermediate provider. Thanks to this model, all someone needs to set up an OTT service is the internet and a compatible device. This makes the service more economical to install and ultimately more accessible for consumers.
Currently, OTT technology is used for Internet TV and radio broadcasting, as well as IP video calls, cloud storage, and instant messaging. Netflix, Wuaki.tv, Skype, WhatsApp, and Viber are prominent users of OTT technology, as are many modern streaming platforms that have opted for this direct-to-user model.
So, what exactly is OTT TV? It's a television service delivered via the public internet that allows access to content from all over the world. The primary way to access this programming is "on demand," meaning users select what they want to watch and when to watch it. This distinguishes it from Internet TV channels transmitted through networks managed by telecommunications companies, as the latter usually have predefined schedules for their programming grids.
Another characteristic that helps to better understand OTT TV is that it can be accessed from any internet-enabled device, providing access to the same content on cell phones, tablets, and computers. This allows for continuous programming regardless of location, which has boosted the development of personalized and multi-platform OTT channels.
The increase in demand for OTT services has kept the industry seeking ways to improve delivery quality. As a result, "adaptive streaming" has become highly relevant. This technology adjusts video settings to offer the user the best possible quality at any given moment, depending on bandwidth and the device. Thanks to this technology, it's possible to reduce the resolution to improve fluidity if the recipient has a slow connection.
Traditional Internet TV channels often lack this feature, which can lead to sustained interruptions when the user has a low bitrate. This type of innovation is one of the reasons why more and more streaming platforms are adopting OTT solutions in their infrastructure.
According to estimates from Convergence Research, OTT technology will account for 90% of US TV and movie rental revenue in 2020. Observations from the same research center indicate that cable TV has maintained a consistent loss of 4% of its subscribers per year.
At Mediastream, we offer services for those looking to create OTT channels or transmit via streaming platforms using this format, working with important brands such as Goltv, Flamengo, TVNPass, WinSport, CNN Chile, TV AZTECA, America TV, Multimedios, and many more.
Bring your OTT services to Mediastream and enter a new era in online broadcasting!
