What is the difference between OTT and VOD Streaming? - ACT

In the digital era, traditional television is yielding to cable and satellite options, alongside innovative forms of content delivery like OTT (Over the Top) and VOD (Video on Demand). These technologies empower viewers by offering on-demand access to diverse content. Here, we explore what is OTT and VOD streaming, highlighting the difference between OTT and VOD. Looking ahead, we discuss future trends in the entertainment industry, particularly with ACT Fibernet, and review the best ACT broadband plan with an OTT subscription.

What is OTT (Over-the-Top) Streaming?

OTT is short for Over-The-Top, which is a method of using the internet to transmit audio, video, or other content, excluding conventional means like Cable and Broadcast TV and Satellite TV. OTT services offer users the content on an application or a web page on several devices: a smartphone, a tablet, a smart TV, or a computer.

Types of OTT Services

• Subscription-Based Services (SVOD): Customers submit constant revenue to get material through a membership that grants them access to content, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Advertising-Based Services (AVOD): This service is offered through stack videos. Some are YouTube and Tubi.
• Transactional Services (TVOD): Users buy product/s, be it for viewing or subscribing to a piece of content. Some examples include iTunes.

What is VOD?

VOD entity expands with Video on Demand, a distribution of media content through which the consumer relies to watch video content. A primary difference is that while broadcasting has restrictions on time, for instance, one has to watch a particular show at some particular time in the day, VOD enables users to select and view content whenever they choose. VOD content can be accessed via the internet, as well as through cable and satellite providers.

Types of VOD Services

• Catch-Up TV: Enables viewers to view programs already aired on television stations, like Peacock by NBC and British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) iPlayer.
• Library VOD: Make available more collections of movies, television productions, and general videos. A few examples are Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
• Transactional VOD: Subscribers make individual payments for the whole array of content.

Differences Between OTT and VOD Streaming

1. Scope of Services:

OTT: Relates it specifically to the transmission of content over the Internet instead of the more common cable and satellite systems. OTT services can be of various forms, such as Live Streaming Services, Subscription Video Demand Services, Advertising Video Demand Services, and Pay-Per-View Video Demand Services.

VOD: Over the top refers to the mode of access to content delivered through the internet or traditional service providers. VOD, thus, places much importance on the discretion of watching videos on demand.

2. Delivery Channels:

OTT: Exclusively uses the internet for content delivery. Examples include Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.

VOD: This can be delivered over the internet or through cable and satellite networks. Examples include cable on-demand services and digital rentals or purchases.

3. Content Types:

OTT: Often includes a mix of live content (like live sports or news) and on-demand content. Some OTT services offer both live TV and on-demand libraries.

VOD: Primarily focuses on on-demand content, allowing users to select and watch specific titles at their convenience.

4. Business Models:

OTT: This can be subscription-based (SVOD), ad-supported (AVOD), or transactional (TVOD). It provides flexibility in how users can access and pay for content.

VOD: Typically aligns with one of the OTT business models but is specifically characterized by the on-demand nature of the content. This means users can start, stop, and resume content as they wish.

Future Trends and ACT Fibernet's Role

• Enhanced User Experience: As the tool of streaming becomes more enhanced and sophisticated, the streaming service provider concerned is targeting the usability design of the application, recommendation systems, and social elements for viewers.
• Original Content Production: Some OTT platforms are testing how much they can spend on creating content that would help them stand out and get more subscribers. This is likely to persist in the future, increasing the number of exclusive content outputs.
• Integration with Smart Devices: Smart devices such as smart TVs, smart speakers, and home automation systems are widely adopted by the clients and hence make it easier to access OTT and VOD content.
• Global Expansion: OTT and VOD are going global by making the content available for different regions and in different languages and cultures.

ACT Fibernet's Role

OTT and VOD player of India ACT Fibernet is going to contribute significantly because it is providing high-speed broadband services, which are being increasingly sought by streaming players. ACT Fibernet offers combo broadband plans that include subscriptions to streaming apps, which makes it easier for users. This integration helps deliver the best streaming to consumers, making ACT Fibernet one of the best broadband service providers.

Best ACT Broadband Plan with OTT Subscription

ACT Fibernet offers excellent broadband plans with OTT subscriptions, which are perfect for various user needs.

ACT Basic Bonanza

• Price: ₹665/month
• Speed: 50 Mbps
• Benefits: Ideal for light users, it provides sufficient speed for basic activities and includes access to OTT apps like Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, Zee5, and more.

ACT Premium Combo

• Price: ₹950/month
• Speed: 100 Mbps
• Benefits: Suitable for moderate users needing faster speeds for HD streaming and work from home, including OTT subscriptions and a free router.

ACT Storm Bonanza

• Price: ₹1350/month
• Speed: 300 Mbps
• Benefits: Perfect for heavy users, offering seamless connectivity for multiple devices, ultra-fast downloads, and buffer-free streaming with access to top OTT apps.

Conclusion

OTT and VOD streaming present new ways of watching media, with great flexibility and choice and the prime convenience element. In contrast to OTT, which reflects the online delivery method, VOD hinges on the convenience of watching the content on one's schedule.

ACT Fibernet is also leading this revolution with its high-speed internet plans that are likely to suffice modern customers' demands. ACT Fibernet ensures that users can enjoy a seamless and high-quality streaming experience, making it one of the best choices for broadband for streaming. To get the best internet speed for streaming and ensure you have the recommended internet speed for 4K streaming, consider opting for an ACT broadband plan that meets your needs.