Over-the-top media service
Over-the-top (OTT) media service (also known as streaming platform) is a media service offered directly to viewers via the Internet.[1] OTT bypasses cable, broadcast, and satellite television platforms—the media through which companies have traditionally acted as controllers or distributors of such content. The term is most synonymous with subscription-based video on demand (SVoD) services that offer access to film and television content. Such content may include shows and movies for which the OTT acquired rights from the content owner. Programming may also (or alternatively) include original content produced specifically for the service.[2][3]
OTT services also include a range of "skinny" television offerings that provide access to live streams of linear specialty channels. These services resemble traditional satellite or cable TV programming, but the OTT content is delivered via the public Internet instead of a closed, private network system that uses exclusive equipment like set-top boxes.[4]
OTT services are typically accessed via websites on personal computers, apps on mobile devices (such as smartphones and tablets), digital media players (including video game consoles), televisions with integrated Smart TV platforms, and streaming devices such as Amazon Fire TV and Roku.[5][6]
The term has also been used to describe no-carrier cellphones, for which all communications are charged as data,[7] avoiding monopolistic competition, or apps for phones that transmit data in this manner, including both those that replace other call methods[8][9] and those that update software.[9][10][2][11]
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).[17] OTT refers to content from a third party that is delivered to an end-user, with the ISP simply transporting IP packets.[18][19][20][21]
Modes of access[edit]
Consumers can access OTT content through Internet-connected devices such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs,[29] set-top boxes, gaming consoles, and 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.[30]