Introduction to Over the top (OTT )
Over the top (OTT) applies to film and television content presented via a high-speed Internet connection and not a cable or satellite provider. Viewers who don't like paying for bundled content are often referred to as cord-cutters.
OTT does not indicate free, as the term incorporates services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and HBO Now.
OTT stands for "over-the-top" and applies to the productized practice of streaming content to customers directly across the web. It represents the future of entertainment.
Understanding OTT
Over the top (OTT) viewing became successful with Netflix's sharp growth. It was segued from just showing old movies and television shows to producing original content and distributing licensed content more quickly.
Its fast-growing profitability, especially with the younger generation, has spurred wide-ranging competition. OTT content can be obtained directly on a computer. Still, it is usually watched on a Web-enabled television or through an Internet-enabled device, like Roku or Apple TV, connected to conventional television.
How Is OTT Delivered?
The convenience of OTT content is one of the several reasons it's so popular. To stream OTT, customers only need an internet connection and a compatible hardware device.
Mobile OTT Devices: Smartphones and tablets can download OTT apps to stream on the on-the-go.
Personal Computers: Customers can access OTT content from desktop-based apps or even web browsers.
Smart TVs: The most popular examples include Apple TVs, SmartTV's, PlayStation, Chromecast, Xbox, FireStick, and MORE. While you can typically stream OTT content on mobile and desktop devices, they aren't considered true OTT devices.
What Kind Of Content Is Suitable For OTT Solutions?
While the OTT conversation primarily revolves around video-on-demand, the technology covers a broad range of web-based content:
Video-Video streaming is the most generally accepted version of OTT media services. Popular platforms cover subscription platforms like Netflix, paid store fronts like iTunes, and ad-based services like YouTube.
Audio-Audio streaming is possible through OTT solutions. Popular examples cover internet radio stations and podcasts.
Messaging-OTT-based messaging services connect users directly by internet connections, bypassing mobile SMS networks. Facebook, Skype, Google, WeChat, and many other brands have versions of these services. Most of them are capable of replacing or integrating with smartphone text messaging features.
VOIP-Voice calling platforms like Skype and WeChat that operate using internet protocols are considered OTT services. In some instances, these services can integrate with mobile phone networks to enhance certain features.
