Over the past decade, there has been a significant change in how we consume entertainment, particularly video. People are increasingly using the internet for news, entertainment, education, and other purposes. Over-the-top (OTT) video technology fuels the online streaming industry.
Businesses are embracing this trend in an effort to increase brand recognition and give their audience something of value. The demand for OTT channels that can reliably and securely host premium content is considerably growing.
What is meant by OTT Platform?
OTT platforms are software used by businesses across industries like Education, entertainment, health & fitness, gaming, enterprises, podcasts etc to stream their content on any device across the world. Most professional OTT platforms are equipped with tools to store, manage and deliver content to viewers over the Internet.
If you are looking forward to picking the right OTT Platform, there are numerous options available. For now, we will look at the top 10 OTT platforms in India.
- HotStar
Hotstar is one of the most well-known OTT services in India. It combines free, VIP, and premium subscription options. You have access to all of Star's channels, including Star World, Star Plus, HBO, and others. Its ratings have increased since its recent partnership with Disney. It has the most extensive collection of Indian television programs, motion pictures, web series, and Hotstar Originals.
- Netflix
One of the most widely used OTT platforms is Netflix. Over 182 million people worldwide subscribe to it. In addition to being a content distributor, Netflix also produced some of its most well-known original series, including Bloodline, Bojack, Horseman, Daredevil, Full House, etc. Due to its high-quality streaming, Netflix is very well known. Inside its app, it also offers offline downloads. One thing you should keep in mind is how platforms like Netflix have advanced in protecting their content from video piracy.
- Youtube TV
One of the most well-known OTT platforms, YouTube Tv, is a Google product. Smart TVs, streaming players, computers, and mobile devices can all access it. Along with over 70 television networks, it also offers YouTube Red's original content. AMC, Bravo, FX, and the USA are some of the more well-known channels on YouTube TV.
- Hulu
Compared to other OTT services like Amazon and Netflix, Hulu is very unique. Hulu is something you need if you want early access to the content that will air on the television network. There are over 30 million subscribers to Hulu. With the ad-supported model, you can access all of Hulu's content while still paying a very low monthly fee for basic services.
- Sun Nxt
Sun Nxt is a regional video streaming service. It offers over 50,000 hours of live TV content, movies, original content, kids' content, and music in 4 South Indian languages - Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam.
- Mubi
Founded in 2007, the Mubi video streaming service offers a unique and ever-changing collection of movies. This is an online cinema with a very unique selection of movies. This platform can be accessed on the web, Android, or iOS.
- Amazon Prime Video
One of those OTT services that were launched as a direct competitor to Netflix is Amazon Prime. We can all agree that it is one of our preferred video streaming services. 150 million or more people subscribe to Amazon. International content is widely available on Amazon. You get access to a ton of incredible Amazon original content, including The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Homecoming, Forever, and others.
- Disney+
Disney+ offers content from Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel. It also brings you content produced by National Geographic and 20th Century Fox. Its content is available in resolutions up to 4K Ultra HD Dolby Vision and HDR10, with Dolby Atmos sound on supported devices. It also offers language support and subtitles in English, Spanish, French, and Dutch.
- Apple TV
Apple TV+ is a video streaming service provider that can be used not only for streaming videos but also for listening to music, playing games, and using other programs on your TV. As Apple has all the uniqueness, this product is also perfect for its users as it provides a one-stop solution to sign up and watch premium TV streaming services in one app without having to switch from one application to another on your device.
- Sling
Sling is one of those OTT platforms that offers something for everyone. The platform offers both free and paid video streaming services. It has over 85,000 movies and shows and costs almost half the price of cable. With Sling, you get access to over 50 live channels, including CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News
Factors to consider when choosing OTT Platform
There are various OTT platforms with varied features of their own. To save you the trouble we have compiled a list of important factors that you must look out for when choosing an OTT platform like Mobiotics for your business needs:
- Hosting capability
- Video API
- Content delivery
- Video monetization
- Reliable safety protocols
- User friendly
- User support
- Video library
- Data analytics
- White label streaming
It is essential that OTT platforms for business must have features like Live Streaming and professional video hosting. Video API is another essential feature that any professional OTT platform must have as it lets content creators customize their content tailored to their subscriber's liking.
Conclusion
Watching subscription-based OTT video services has become a daily habit for 60% of adults in India. Given the size of the industry and its potential, now is a good time to get in on the trend. The first step to getting started is choosing an OTT video platform to host, manage and monetize your streaming service. Utilizing trial offers is the best way to select an OTT platform provider. In this way, you can test out every feature and make sure the platform has everything you require to fulfill your OTT streaming objectives.
If you are deciding to build your own OTT platform, book a consultation with Mobiotics. We offer precise OTT consultation as per your business needs and create a plan that promotes your content. Like to know more? Book a demo or send an enquiry today