What is an OTT platform?
An over-the-top platform (OTT) is a service for distributing media content via the Internet, without using traditional distribution systems such as cable or satellite.
The widespread adoption of mobile phones has dramatically increased the demand for OTT content. It offers unparalleled flexibility for content creators and consumers.
Main characteristics :
- Stream video and live streams to any connected device
- Direct distribution to spectators, without intermediaries
- Varied services: VoD (video on demand), Livestreaming, messaging, audio streaming, VoIP
Beyond simple distribution, an OTT platform offers a complete ecosystem for content management and monetization:
- Video management and storage
- HD live stream recording
- Distribution via CDN Global (Content Delivery Networks)
- Diversified monetization options
- Subscription Management
- Analysis tools to understand user behavior
- Customizing the video player
OTT platforms are revolutionizing content distribution by offering unprecedented freedom to creators and a tailor-made experience to the spectators. They represent the future of media consumption, combining flexibility, personalization and accessibility.
List of the best OTT platforms
Here are my top supplier choices:
1. uScreen.tv: Complete OTT platform for content creators
Everyone from content creators to marketers uses uScreen.tv to monetize their videos. Whether it's streaming content on demand or broadcasting live content directly to your audience, their all-in-one platform can meet your needs.
The freedom to customize your app and align it with your brand is another important feature that makes Uscreen my video platform preferred for growing your brand with monetizable content.
Features
- Unlimited video hosting and streaming
- Custom applications for iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, and Fire TV
- Integrated marketing tools with emails, coupons, and affiliate programs
- Flexible monetization options (SVOD, TVOD, bundles)
- Detailed analyses and real-time reports
- Integration with over 1000 applications via Zapier
- Multilingual support for subtitles and audio
- Live streaming with live chat functionality
- Content protection by DRM
- Fully customizable user interface
Rates
Uscreen offers 3 pricing plans:
- Basic: $49/month + $0.50/subscriber
- Growth: $199/month + $0.50/subscriber
- Uscreen Plus: On request (companies)
LEARN MORE: Get started with Uscreen.
2. Setplex: Scalable OTT solution for professional broadcasters
Do you want to present multiple channels and monetize them the way you want? Setplex provides services for IPTV, content owners, government IPTV, and more. If you're looking for a simple, powerful, and affordable solution, I recommend Setplex.
Setplex is a comprehensive OTT and streaming service provider that offers numerous broadcast channels, a feature-rich web control panel, versatile monetization methods, and more.
Features
- Live streaming and VOD
- Apps for all major devices (mobiles, smart TVs, web)
- Centralized content management
- Integration of billing and CRM systems
- Detailed analyses and reports
- Content protection with DRM and encryption
- Multilingual interface
- Customizing the user experience
- Targeted advertising and dynamic ad insertion
- Social features and recommendation system
Rates
- Not publicly disclosed, on quotation only
LEARN MORE: Get started with Setplex.
3. vPlayed: Versatile OTT platform for media businesses
If you want to do streaming to any device, live or on demand, and you want to ensure compatibility with these devices, then VPlayed is the solution. With a faster implementation and deployment than its competitors, I recommend this solution for its numerous streaming features.
CONTUS VPlayed is a top-notch OTT platform provider that innovatively designs maximum potential for the delivery of any media across multiple devices such as the Web, Android, iOS, and SmartTV, whether it's live or on-demand video.
Features
- Live and on-demand streaming
- Cross-platform applications (web, mobile, smart TV)
- Multiple monetization options (SVOD, TVOD, AVOD)
- Content Management and digital rights
- Real-time analytics and reports
- Customizable user interface
- Integration of various payment systems
- Support for multiple languages
- Social features with sharing and commenting
- API for custom integrations
Rates
- Starter: Starting at $199/month
- Business: Starting at $499/month
- Company: On request
LEARN MORE: Get started today with The free VPlayed demo.
4. Dacast: Flexible OTT solution for broadcasters of all sizes
Broadcast secure events to an international audience was once complicated. Dacast makes the process as easy as it can be. With 24/7 support, I recommend this company if you want to get up and running quickly.
The Akamai CDN ensures high-quality video streaming. This white label OTT platform also allows you to personalize your service with your brand.
Features
- Live streaming and VOD
- Customizable HTML5 video player
- Monetization options (pay-per-view, subscriptions)
- API and SDK for custom integrations
- Detailed analyses and real-time reports
- Content security with geoblocking and password protection
- Multi-CDN support for global distribution
- Real-time transcoding
- Subtitles and chaptering
- Integration with main CMS
Rates
Dacast offers 4 pricing plans:
- Starter: $39/month
- Event: $63/month
- Scale: $188/month
- Custom: On request
All plans come with features like unlimited live events, ad-free HD streaming, custom tagging, and more.
FIND OUT MORE: Try Dacast
5. Muvi: All-in-one OTT platform for media businesses
Are you considering launching your own audio or video streaming platform? Then you should go for Muvi. With a website all-inclusive mobile included in their plan, you'll be able to set up and launch instantly. The ability to only stream audio is also a nice feature.
Muvi is undoubtedly one of the best platforms on the OTT market. It is one of rare OTT platforms which also focuses on streaming audio only.
Features
- Live streaming and VOD
- Apps for all major devices
- Integrated CMS for content management
- Multiple monetization (SVOD, TVOD, AVOD)
- Detailed analyses and reports
- Full interface customization
- Subscription management and billing
- Content protection (DRM, watermarking)
- Multilingual support
- Integration with social networks
Rates
Muvi offers 4 price levels.
- Standard: $399/month
- Professional: $1,499/month
- Enterprise: $3,900/month
- Ultimate: $8,900/month
They also offer a “Black” plan that offers an almost unlimited number of items and premium support.
FIND OUT MORE: Get started today with Muvi's free 14-day trial.
6. Wowza: Robust OTT platform for technical broadcasters
Wowza's full-service OTT platform offers reliable and scalable solutions for all sectors and viewers. It is equipped with its own CDNs for reliable distribution of content around the world. It offers fine control over video format, streaming options, and video quality.
You also have access to the patented Wowza software, custom designed for flawless live streaming performance. The expandable modular architecture even allows you to instantly upgrade the live streaming performance of your videos.
Features
- Live streaming and VOD
- Real-time transcoding
- API and SDK for custom integrations
- Advanced security with authentication and encryption
- Support for modern streaming protocols
- Real-time analytics
- Multi-CDN delivery
- Cloud recording and storage
- Streaming to low latency
- Support for 4K and VR/360° streaming
Rates
Wowza offers 3 pricing plans:
- Streaming Engine (self-hosted): Starting at $125/month
- Cloud streaming: Starting at $25/month
- Custom: On request
FIND OUT MORE: Discover Wowza now
7. Vimeo OTT: Integrated OTT solution for creators and businesses
Vimeo Livestream is one of the popular providers to launch your video subscription service.
Its internal video gallery functions as a centralized dashboard. So you can manage, control, access, access, publish, and archive all of your videos in one place.
The good news is that you don't need to hire a support team to manage the technology. Vimeo does all the work for you.
Features
- Custom apps for all major devices
- Flexible monetization of a channel (SVOD, TVOD, AVOD)
- Integrated CMS to create a platform with simplified content management
- Detailed analyses and reports
- Integrated marketing tools (emails, coupons)
- Live streaming capabilities
- DRM content protection
- Support for multilingual subtitles and audio
- Integration with various payment systems
- API for advanced customizations
Rates
Vimeo offers 3 pricing plans:
- Starter: $1/subscriber/month (minimum $500/month)
- Growth: On request
- Company: On request
You can try any of the plans for free for 30 days. You can also join Vimeo Basic, which allows you to download HD videos without paying a single cent.
FIND OUT MORE: Check out Vimeo OTT now
Essential features of an OTT platform
Here are the key features to consider when choosing the ideal OTT platform:
1. Streaming quality and personalization
One advanced HTML5 video player is crucial for an optimal user experience. It should offer high-quality streaming without buffering and incorporate adaptive streaming technology (ABR). Compatibility with various codecs and devices is also essential.
Customizing the interface plays a major role in the identity of your service. Search for:
- Full customization of the video player
- White label options
- Flexible themes and layouts
2. Live streaming and interactivity
Les live streaming tools have become unavoidable. They should include features such as real-time feedback in moderation and payment integration for paid events. Interactivity is key to engaging your audience. Consider live polls, interactive question and answer systems, and the possibility of multi-camera broadcasting for a more immersive experience.
3. Development and analysis
For smooth integration and maximum scalability, choose a platform that offers Native SDKs for iOS, Android, and Smart TV, as well as a comprehensive RESTful API. Detailed documentation and solid developer support are essential to get the most out of these tools.
THEin-depth analytics is crucial for understanding and optimizing the performance of your service. Search for:
- Real-time dashboards
- Detailed metrics with advanced segmentation
- The ability to create custom reports
- Integrations with third party analytics tools
OTT technology
OTT technology is a set of technologies that makes it possible to broadcast content online without the constraints of traditional television. Here are some of the key technologies that make up OTT technology:
- Communication protocol : Communication protocols such as HTTP, RTMP, HLS, etc., allow online content to be transmitted efficiently and reliably. These protocols ensure smooth and high-quality delivery, which is essential for an optimal user experience.
- Streaming servers : Streaming servers, whether dedicated to video or audio, play a crucial role in the delivery of online content. They manage the distribution of content to end users, ensuring stable performance and low latency.
- Content Management Platforms : Content Management Platforms (CMS) and Media Management Platforms make it possible to manage and deliver online content in an organized and efficient manner. They offer tools for editing, storing, and distributing content, making it easy to manage your OTT platform on a daily basis.
- Mobile and web applications : Mobile and web applications are essential for allowing users to access and view online content on their favorite devices. They offer a user-friendly interface and interactive features that enrich the user experience.
- Internet access: You need an internet connection to access content, unlike a traditional cable television.
By combining these technologies, OTT platforms offer a comprehensive and flexible solution for content delivery, meeting the needs of modern creators and consumers.
Differences between streaming and OTT platforms
Definition and basic principle
The Streaming And theOTT (Over-The-Top) are two fundamental concepts in today's digital media landscape. Although often confused, they have distinct characteristics.
Streaming is defined as the real-time transmission of audio or video content via the Internet. This technology allows users to consume content instantly, without having to download it first. YouTube and Spotify are iconic examples of streaming platforms.
OTT, on the other hand, refers to services that broadcast content over the Internet by bypassing traditional cable or satellite television networks. These platforms, such as Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, generally offer:
- Video on demand (VOD)
- Live channels in some cases
- A content catalog accessible via a subscription or for purchase
Nature of the proposed content
Content diversity is a key differentiator between streaming and OTT.
The Streaming covers a broad spectrum of content, including:
- Videos and movies
- TV shows
- Music
- Online games
- Live events
- User Generated Content
The services OTT, on the other hand, focus mainly on premium video content:
- Movies
- TV series
- Exclusive original content
- Some live events, especially sports or cultural events
This specialization allows OTT services to target their audience more precisely and offer a more consistent experience.
Economic models
The business models adopted by streaming and OTT reflect their fundamental differences.
The Streaming offers a variety of options:
- Free services financed by advertising
- Monthly subscriptions
- Payment on demand
- Freemium models combining free and paid options
The services OTT generally rely on three main models:
- SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand): monthly subscription to access the entire catalog
- TVOD (Transactional Video on Demand): single payment to rent or buy specific content
- AVOD (Advertising-based Video on Demand): free, ad-supported content
This diversity of models allows consumers to choose the option that best suits their viewing habits and budget.
Accessibility and user experience
Accessibility and user experience are crucial aspects for both streaming and OTT, but with important nuances.
The platforms of Streaming are generally accessible via:
- Of web browsers
- Mobile applications
- Various connected devices
This flexibility allows users to easily access content across a multitude of media.
The services OTT, on the other hand, focus on a more elaborate multi-screen experience, including:
- Smart TVs
- Game consoles
- Dedicated streaming devices (Roku, Amazon Fire TV)
- Computers and smartphones
OTT is characterized by a particular focus on the user interface and viewing experience, aiming to replicate or surpass the traditional television experience.
Quality and features
The quality of the content and the functionalities offered also mark a significant difference between streaming and OTT.
The Streaming is characterized by:
- A variable quality depending heavily on the Internet connection
- Using compression techniques to optimize bandwidth
The services OTT focus on:
- High video quality, often up to 4K
- Advanced features like downloading for offline viewing
- Personalized recommendation systems based on AI
- Intuitive and ergonomic user interfaces
This focus on quality and user experience allows OTT services to stand out and justify their premium subscription models.
Conclusion
That's my list of the best OTT platforms to try this year for your video streaming services.
All platforms offer a few unique features and some basic capabilities.
But they are all suitable for broadcasting VoDs and live events. Carefully consider your needs and determine an appropriate budget. This will help you make a more objective decision.
My final recommendation: if you want the best global OTT platform, Uscreen is clearly your first choice.
