The obsession of the world with watching video content on streaming platforms is a direct reflection of a bigger realization: everyone is a content creator. For most people, that is completely correct.
However, while there’s an ever-growing need for content, there is also an ever-growing competition for eyes. How do you disrupt through the noise and create your mark as an organization or a personal brand? It will help if you optimize the streaming platforms you use so you can be perceived as a thought leader, gain viewers, and win over the market.
To begin, you must understand what your choices are, what is great about them, and what they mean for your content’s future. Without further ado, let’s dive in!
What is a streaming platform?
A streaming platform is an on-demand online entertainment source for movies, TV shows, and other streaming media. For instance, think of things such as Vimeo, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Hulu. These may not be in the same league as YouTube, but platforms such as Crackle, Facebook, and Internet Achieve are considered streaming platforms too.
Three of the commonly used streaming platforms are IPTV, OTT, and Live Streaming. This article will try to uncover their differences, how they work, and the benefits they offer.
IPTV Streaming
Internet Protocol Television or IPTV is an online service that enables you to watch TV even without a cable connection. You can stream different TV channels using your standard internet connection for free, oftentimes paid.
Let’s start with how IPTV works. Take note that IPTV is not a channel but instead a service that works in every country of the globe, as long as the IPTV service provider carries the streaming license.
There’s a complex network architecture behind the creation of this service.
Numerous transcoding is involved, from standard signals to IP-friendly signals. The only difference is that you do not have to watch what is being broadcast. As an alternative, you have the freedom to tell your provider the type of content you like to watch, and they’ll send that to you right away.
It is somewhat similar to Netflix and Hulu, but you’d get access to TV than simply syndicated movies or shows.
Further, IPTV is not a free streaming service. You’ll need a subscription-based M3U link for playing live TV channels in high definition. You might happen to get free M3U files along with limited channels, but the image quality will be extremely poor. If you need to watch the content conveniently, it will help if you have an M3U provider or subscription to IPTV service.
Are you looking for where you can get an IPTV subscription from? Don’t worry, because a huge number of providers are providing IPTV subscriptions nowadays. Just do a basic Google search, and you’ll be filled with a list of providers. Make sure you check first their trial version to test the service first and ensure they offer your favorite channels.
OTT Streaming
Over the top of OTT streaming is a media service provided to viewers over the internet rather than using the traditional way of broadcast providers or cable. Video and OTT are interweaved but aren’t the same things.
You see, OTT is a platform where video content is delivered to access for users. OTT streaming platforms aren’t limited to TV and movies but also are altering the consumer taste of watching live any TV programs such as news, movies, sports, events, and concerts, among others.
Video contents on an OTT streaming service can be watched on any type of smart devices like TV sets, mobile devices, laptops, or computers. Also OTT contents can be streamed from an OTT application. Remember that it’s not a device but content to be consumed through PlayStation, Apple TVs, Smart TVs, Xbox, Amazon Fire Sticks, or other streaming device applications.
Live Streaming
A live streaming platform often refers to watching video content online in real-time. Famous live content options include gaming events, comedy specials, the news, and local live coverage, sporting events, and concerts.
Examples of live streaming TV providers are Sling TV and YouTube Live. Keep in mind that live streaming TV is often subscription-based and provides DVR and channel options.
Further, a live streaming platform is often an application, website, or live video streaming software that enables you to broadcast live video content. When you upload a video on the platform, viewers can conveniently watch it in real-time.
However, what makes a good live streaming platform? At the very least, the service must offer video content management and video hosting tools. It must also offer basic monetization, analytics, and embedding tools.
Remember that selecting a live streaming platform is no easy endeavor. New streamers have numerous factors to keep in mind. Further, one platform is not always better than another—they all have unique audiences, technical aspects, and features.
A live streaming service that works for one brand or person might not be the ideal option for another. Always consider your unique requirements into account. Take note that if you are having trouble picking, there is always multi-streaming.
OTT can be quoted as many partners are involved in content delivery, advertising, and measurement streaming. The audience watching the content through any websites or apps offers a live streaming experience that bypasses that traditional distribution.
With the emergency of the OTT platform, cable subscribers are suddenly experiencing lost earnings for their companies with cancellations in services. Thus, advertising groups in the marketing world have got a chance to push their content to their target audience.
Final Thoughts
With the popularity of streaming, there is an ever-increasing list of streaming platforms and providers for you to choose from. Hulu, Disney+, and Netflix are some of the brands you recognize, and new providers are also emerging up all the time.
