The rise of OTT streaming: A revolution in entertainment

Just as television once stole the spotlight from radio, OTT streaming is now the shining star, giving traditional broadcasting a run for its money. But as this transformation has been unfolding over the last decade, it’s not just about ditching cable in favour of digital – it’s a shift in how we consume content.

With its promise of ‘anytime, anywhere’ entertainment, it has revolutionized our expectations and experiences, turning us into content connoisseurs on our own terms.

But what exactly is OTT streaming? How did it rise to such popularity? And why has it become the preferred way to consume entertainment? Let’s find out.

The advent of high-speed internet and smartphones

OTT streaming didn’t emerge overnight but was a result of a culmination of technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. In fact, the concept of OTT first appeared in the early 2000s, when internet speeds started to rapidly improve, making streaming video content feasible. This coupled with the rise of smartphones in the hands of millions provided a portable device on which to enjoy this content. And more importantly, the advent of these technologies meant that we were no longer tied to fixed schedules dictated by cable TV providers but instead, we could watch what we wanted when we wanted, be it while commuting, waiting at the doctor’s office or simply relaxing in the comfort of our own homes.

What is OTT streaming?

Short for Over-The-Top, OTT streaming refers to any service that delivers video content directly over the internet, bypassing traditional cable, satellite or broadcast television platforms. This means you can watch your shows, movies and live events whenever and wherever you want, as long as you have an internet connection, while you can stream this content on various platforms and devices.

How does OTT differ from traditional broadcasting?

In the past, to catch your favourite TV show or movie, you would need to be in front of your television at a specific time, waiting for it to air. This was the era of traditional broadcasting, a world dominated by cable and satellite TV providers. They decided what you watched and when you watched it and you were essentially on their schedule. This is not the case with OTT services.

Here are some main differences between the two:

• On-demand content: unlike traditional broadcasting, OTT streaming services offer on-demand content. You choose what to watch, when to watch it and how you want to watch it.
• Compatibility: OTT streaming is versatile and works on a variety of devices. Whether you’re using a smartphone, tablet, smart TV or desktop computer, you can access your favourite content with ease.
• No contracts or long-term commitments: most OTT services, including our very own GO TV, allow you to subscribe on a month-to-month basis. This flexibility means you can cancel or change your subscription at any time without the burden of long-term commitments.
• A wealth of choices: this type of streaming offers an extensive catalogue of content from various genres, making it easier to find and explore content that suits your preferences.
• No additional hardware: OTT services deliver content directly over the internet, bypassing traditional cable or satellite TV providers so you don’t need a cable subscription to use them. All you need is a device with an internet connection and you’re good to go.

Is there a difference between OTT streaming and IPTV?

IPTV, short for Internet Protocol Television and OTT streaming are both methods of delivering television and video content over the internet, but they have some key differences in terms of technology and service delivery.

For instance, IPTV operates over a closed, managed network, which means that content is delivered using a separate infrastructure that’s different from the public internet, while it requires a set-top box or a special IPTV receiver to access content. At the same time, access to this service may be limited to specific regions or areas where the service provider has established its network infrastructure. In contrast, with OTT streaming, content is delivered in a more open and unmanaged manner over public internet, making it suitable for on-demand services, apps and streaming platforms.

When it comes to content offering, IPTV services typically provide a combination of live TV channels, VOD and interactive features. On the other hand, OTT streaming services primarily focus on on-demand content, including movies, TV series and original programming. Having said that, they may offer some live-streaming options, but their main emphasis is on giving users the flexibility to choose what they want to watch and when they want to watch it.

What are the benefits of OTT streaming?

With numerous benefits over traditional broadcasting, it comes as no surprise that OTT has become the preferred way to consume entertainment. Let’s delve deeper into its benefits:

• Convenience: Watch content at your convenience, pause, rewind or fast forward, and never miss your favourite scenes.
• Cost-effective: OTT streaming is often more affordable than traditional cable subscriptions, allowing you to access a wide range of content without breaking the bank.
• Global access: With the internet as its backbone, OTT streaming provides access to content from around the world. Explore shows, movies and sports events from different cultures.
• Personalized experience: OTT platforms use algorithms to recommend content tailored to your preferences, enhancing your viewing experience.
• HD quality: Many OTT services offer high-definition and even 4K streaming for a superior visual experience.

Discover our OTT streaming service

If you’re looking to join the OTT streaming revolution, then our GO TV is all you need. Designed to meet your entertainment needs, our GO TV is a standalone service that works through our app and provides access to 20 channels, both local and Italian, ensuring a diverse array of content. Tune in to a range series, movies, live sports, kids shows and much more, including exclusive and top local drama, series and movies with Tokis. And if you’re looking to boost your TV experience even further, you can add one of our TV Passes. The Movies & Series TV Pass, the Entertainment TV Pass, and the Sports TV Pass, each offering a curated selection of on-demand, as well as live content to cater to your specific interests.

Wondering what sets GO TV apart from other options out there? Apart from the great content, you can watch all the local and foreign TV you want without having to change your internet provider, while it works on any device, which means that you can download the GO TV app on mobile, tablet, Android Smart TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, Samsung TV or LG TV. And you can get all this great entertainment now and cancel anytime you wish without having to worry about penalty fees or lengthy commitments.

The rise of OTT streaming has truly revolutionized the way we consume entertainment, offering more choice, convenience, and control than ever before. With our GO TV app, you can be a part of this great entertainment. So why wait? Start streaming today.

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