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Day: July 25, 2022

Over the top broadcasting: Everything you need to know

With traditional media like TV cable services such as Astro, you don’t get a choice to choose the particular TV show or movie you want to watch. If you didn’t know already, online streaming or basically any form of media service that uses the Internet is called Over The Top (OTT). Below, we go into detail on what it’s all about:

What is Over the Top(OTT) Broadcasting?

Over the Top (OTT) broadcasting stands is actually a form of media service that streams media as its own product. In simpler terms, it’s a type of media which is created to suit the needs of a specific targeted audience. It’s about providing the type of content that the viewers want to see.

For example, some of the popular OTT broadcasting streaming services would be Hulu, Netflix and Amazon Prime. Viewers are not required to use a cable in order to stream the content.

Why do we need OTT Broadcasting?

These days, modern media are gearing towards providing a wide variety of content to reach a large volume of consumers. OTT broadcasting services also offer better, wider opportunities for the advertising space.

It’s also much easier for consumers to switch across multiple platforms, enabling them to have better control on the kind of content they’d like to consume as compared to traditional media where consumers can’t choose what to watch freely.

What are the benefits of OTT Broadcasting?

100% original content

Rest assured, most of the content is produced by the OTT providers itself. Hence, you won’t be able to watch some of them unless you’re subscribed to that particular OTT provider.

High quality content for a cheaper cost

In comparison with traditional media, OTT broadcasting services are much cheaper based on the content offered.

Able to use across multiple devices

Traditional media requires you to watch content through a television. These days, you can watch OTT content on various devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops.

What types of content can be displayed through OTT Broadcasting?

VoIP

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) stands for the voice calling platforms that use the internet protocols such as Skype.

Video

Video streaming involves popular streaming subscription platforms such as Amazon Prime, Hulu, Netflix and ad-based OTT broadcasting services such as Youtube.

Audio

As for audio OTT broadcasting services, some examples would be podcasts and internet radio stations.

Messaging

OTT messaging services usually enable users to communicate with one another through the Internet. For example, Facebook, Skype, WeChat, to name a few.

Would OTT be replacing traditional advertising?

It’s safe to say many are changing their ways to OTT services as they are more interested in subscribing to online streaming channels. Although the percentage of those who are keen on OTT broadcasting services, those who prefer the traditional media ways would still use cable services for their entertainment.

SmartTv vs AndroidTv: What’s the main difference?

If you’re wondering what are the main differences between the two, below is a brief overview to help make your decision making easier:

What is SmartTV?

A SmartTV is basically a TV that plays any sort of programs and channels by connecting to the Internet. In other words, it’s similar to using a computer, except it’s through a TV. Unlike regular normal TVs, it doesn’t connect to a satellite. Furthermore, you’ll get to enjoy more than just TV series or movies.

With a Smart TV, you can access a wide variety of services such as games, apps, internet browsing, social media platforms and so on.

What is AndroidTV?

An AndroidTV is similar to a SmartTV, except it runs on the Android operating system. It’s the same as using your Android smartphone, except you’re displaying via the TV. You can also access the Google Playstore via your TV.

That means you can access and download any games, streaming platforms, social media platforms, and so on.

The Main Differences between SmartTV and AndroidTV

The available app options 

SmartTV runs on either WebOS or Tizen OS whereas an AndroidTV runs on Android. Therefore, as we all know, the Google PlayStore has a wide range of applications. For instance, the games, music, social media platforms, to name a few. In comparison with SmartTV, you’ll only be able to find the common ones such as Netflix, Youtube and Prime Video.

Screencasting

AndroidTV comes with a built-in screencasting system, also known as ChromeCast. Hence, you can stream your content from your Android smartphone to your AndroidTV directly. SmartTV requires you to use a third party device that needs to be manually paired. Thus, resulting in extra costs when you own a SmartTV.

Can be operated hands-free

AndroidTV allows you to operate and navigate via Google Assistant. That means you don’t need to type anything on the screen, all you have to do is speak your instructions out while maintaining your comfortable position on the couch.

SmartTVs generally do not come with a built-in voice assistant so you’ll have to type with the on-screen keyboard while searching for your content.

Consistent updates

SmartTV doesn’t have regular updates as compared to AndroidTV. Hence, you will enjoy the latest, modern apps and media streaming sources. At the very least, SmartTVs can easily be switched to an AndroidTV by simply getting an AndroidTV set-top box so you can stream it over to your SmartTV.

The Key Takeaway

Although the differences between the SmartTV and AndroidTV are quite minor, ultimately it boils down to your needs and requirements. You should identify what is your overall budget and in the long run, which works best for you. There is no one-size-fits-it-all solution, so either one would be a good choice.