Background[edit]
In broadcasting, over-the-top (OTT) content is the audio, video, and other media content delivered over the Internet, without the involvement of a multiple-system operator (MSO) in the control or distribution of the content. The Internet provider may be aware of the contents of the Internet Protocol (IP) packets and may be able to block or restrict their transit to end users (unless that internet provider operates within a jurisdiction that requires "net neutrality"). However, the ISP is not responsible for the viewing abilities, copyrights, and/or other redistribution of the content from the OTT provider. This model contrasts with the purchasing or rental of video or audio content from an Internet service provider, such as pay television, video on demand and internet protocol television (IPTV).[18] OTT refers to content from a third party that is delivered to an end-user, with the ISP simply transporting IP packets.[19][20][21][22]
OTT television, commonly called streaming television, remains the most popular OTT content. This signal is received over the Internet or through a cell phone network, as opposed to receiving the television signal from a terrestrial broadcast or satellite. The video distributor controls access through an app, a separate OTT dongle, or a box connected to a phone, PC, or smart television set. By mid-2017, 58 percent of US households would access one in a given month, and advertising revenues from OTT channels exceeded revenue from videos playing in web browsers on desktops and laptops.[23]
In 2019, the record of simultaneous users watching an OTT event was set at 18.6 million in India by Disney Entertainment's video streaming platform Hotstar.[24]
Modes of access[edit]
Consumers can access OTT content through Internet-connected devices such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs,[25] set-top boxes, gaming consoles, digital media players, desktop and laptop computers. As of 2019, Android and iOS users made up more than 45% of the total OTT content streaming audience, while 39% of users used another device to access OTT content.[26]
Mobile communication[edit]
The term "OTT" has also been used to describe no-carrier cellphones, for which all communications are charged as data,[27] avoiding monopolistic competition, or apps for phones that transmit data in this manner, including both those that replace other call methods[28][29] and those that update software.[29][30][5][31]
OTT messaging is defined as instant messaging services or online chat provided by third parties, as an alternative to text messaging services provided by a mobile network operator.[32][33] An example is the Facebook-owned mobile application WhatsApp, that serves to replace text messaging on Internet connected smartphones.[34][35] Other providers of OTT messaging include Viber, WeChat, iMessage, Skype, Telegram and the now defunct Google Allo.[36]
OTT voice calling, usually called VoIP, capabilities, for instance, a softphone or as provided by FaceTime, Skype, Viber, WhatsApp, WeChat, and Zoom use open internet communication protocols to replace and sometimes enhance existing operator controlled services offered by mobile phone operators.[35]