OTT Hosting and Video Delivery: 10 Best Solutions for 2023

By Max Wilbert

16 Min Read

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Max Wilbert

Max Wilbert is a passionate writer, live streaming practitioner, and has strong expertise in the video streaming industry.

    As the use of traditional television continues to decline, the over-the-top (OTT) video industry grows more by the day.

    In recent OTT trends, more than 60% of adults in the US report watching subscription-based OTT video services every day. That number continues to grow as OTT hosting solutions make it easier for OTT service providers to build scalable platforms.

    However, with so many OTT hosting service providers on the market, it can be difficult to choose an over-the-top video delivery solution that best fits your needs.

    In this post, we will look at what OTT video hosting is and what features to look for in an OTT hosting platform before we compare some of the top video hosting solutions. We will discuss each solution in terms of the features that OTT streaming service providers need.

    After our comparison, we will run through a few major trends in the OTT industry.

    Table of Contents

    • What is OTT Video Hosting?
    • How Does OTT Technology Work?
    • Key OTT Video Hosting Features
    • Top 10 OTT Hosting and Video Delivery Solutions: A Comparison
    • OTT Hosting on Dacast: A Success Story
    • 2023 OTT Trends
    • Conclusion

    What is OTT Video Hosting?

    ott video solutions
    OTT video hosting is essential to building a streaming service.

    OTT video streaming is a form of video broadcasting that goes “over-the-top” of traditional broadcasting technology, like satellite or cable, and uses the internet to deliver content instead.

    Over-the-top video hosting is OTT technology that supports this type of streaming.

    Thanks to their OTT business models, services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ have seen exponential growth in recent years. Streaming services with a slightly different approach, including Amazon Prime, Apple TV+, and HBO Max, have been increasingly successful, as well.

    Worldwide OTT revenue was roughly $272.18 billion in 2022. Experts predict that number will rise to $467.35 billion by 2027.

    Image via Statista

    OTT hosting and delivery isn’t just restricted to the entertainment industry with movies and web series.

    Many different types of broadcasters use OTT hosting and delivery. For example, many sports leagues and networks are developing online portals for fans to watch their games, matches, championships, and other special events over the internet.

    Independent educators also use OTT streaming services to monetize collections of courses and training sessions. This approach could be used by a fitness studio, a yoga instructor, a CPR/first aid organization, entrepreneurship lessons, or any other niche educators.

    How Does OTT Technology Work?

    OTT video technology is the combination of software and equipment that makes it possible to bypass traditional broadcasting technology and broadcast video content over the internet. 

    With OTT video solutions, viewers can stream on internet-enabled smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, laptops, or computers.

    But here’s the thing.

    While accessing video via OTT is typically more convenient for viewers, what goes on behind the scenes of OTT hosting and streaming is a bit more complex than traditional broadcasting. 

    Here is how OTT technology looks in action:

    1. Broadcasters upload video content to an OTT video hosting solution 
    2. The OTT server transmits the data to remote servers via a content delivery network (CDN)
    3. Viewers select the content they want to stream on the user-facing video gallery
    4. The video player on the device delivers the video content via the internet from the video streaming CDN’s server 

    OTT streaming is made possible with the help of an online OTT video hosting platform.

    Key OTT Video Hosting Features

    ott streaming server
    OTT streaming service providers benefit from a few video hosting features.

    Businesses using the OTT streaming model need most of the standard video hosting tools, but some of these features are more important than others.

    Let’s look at a few of the most desirable features of OTT hosting solutions.

    Video CMS

    Aside from storing your video content, one of the main functions of an OTT server is video content management.

    Essentially, this refers to the tools available for managing your content. This includes building playlists, video galleries, content organization, bulk uploading, and more.

    Many OTT hosting solutions are often video content management systems (CMS) by nature, but you can use video API to customize your hosting experience.

    API Access

    API (Application Programming Interface) access is an essential tool for most OTT businesses. APIs facilitate programmatic interactions with your video platform. Broadcasters can easily integrate existing workflows, build custom web or mobile apps, and more. 

    APIs save companies a great deal of time, resources, and money.

    Monetization Tools 

    Most OTT businesses monetize their videos through subscriptions, pay-per-view, or advertising. Some broadcasters even choose to use a blend of two of these models.

    Which method you choose will depend on what you are trying to achieve, who your target audience is, and what sort of content you’re creating.

    Not all video platforms are equipped with every OTT monetization tool, so look for OTT video hosting solutions that support your chosen method.

    Privacy and Security

    Privacy and security are major concerns for OTT businesses, especially since online piracy cost the U.S. economy more than $50 billion by the year 2022. A secure online video platform to host OTT video content should offer a wide range of flexible tools for restricting access to content.

    Bandwidth 

    Depending on the volume you stream at, bandwidth can get expensive for OTT businesses. Look for an OTT video platform that provides plenty of bandwidth with affordable pricing plans.

    Budget and Pricing

    Video streaming solutions come in a range of pricing levels. So, price should definitely factor into your calculations. This is especially true given that OTT businesses can chew through bandwidth quickly.

    Please keep in mind that the more expensive platforms don’t always provide the best features. Some lower-priced OTT servers have better functionality than the highest-priced options, so it’s worth shopping around.

    A Comparison of the Top 10 OTT Hosting and Video Delivery Solutions

    Now that you have a better understanding of the key features for live streaming, let’s compare ten of the top OTT video hosting and delivery solutions.

    1. Dacast

    ott video hosting solution
    Our user-friendly platform is equipped with the tools you need for OTT video hosting.

    Dacast is a unified streaming solution that supports both live streaming and on-demand OTT video hosting and delivery. Dacast is the top choice for many OTT businesses since our solution is feature-packed and easy to use.

    A variety of broadcasters in the OTT industry are current users of Dacast. Some are TV stations developing online replay portals to remain competitive in a changing market. These users include the French-language channel IDF1 and the Danish-Flemish channel BVN.

    What’s more?

    Dacast has also recently introduced an Expo video portal feature which allows you to create a branded viewer-facing gallery to showcase your video content if you haven’t yet built a streaming site of your own.

    API Access:

    Dacast supports full access to player and video API in addition to mobile SDKs.

    Monetization:

    Dacast has a built-in paywall for subscriptions and pay-per-view monetization. Advertising is supported via direct integration. No coding is needed to insert ads from a variety of servers and networks.

    Security:

    Security is a priority for Dacast. Some of our privacy and security tools include secure video sharing, password protection, IP and domain restrictions, tokenized security, and AES encryption.

    Bandwidth:

    The main difference between the Dacast plans is the amount of bandwidth that comes with them. That said, you can start with a plan that comes with an amount of bandwidth that is appropriate for your immediate need. You can purchase additional streaming bandwidth when you run out.

    Please check out the “Calculator” tab of our pricing page to crunch some numbers regarding bandwidth and data. You can plug in different information about your stream to find out an estimate of how much bandwidth your OTT video streaming platform needs and which plan is right for you.

    Pros:

    Cons:

    • A large range of features requires a bit of an initial learning curve

    Upload Guidelines and Specs:

    • Minimum dimension: None (but 240p is the recommended minimum)
    • Maximum dimension: 1080p or 4K (depends on the user’s hardware and internet)
    • Aspect ratio: No restrictions (but 16:9 is the default)
    • Max file size: None
    • Max video length: None
    • Total file storage: 10-1000GB (depends on plan)
    • Compatible video formats: MP4 (preferred), MOV, M4V, M2V, AVI, MPG, FLV, WMV, MKV, WEBM, OGV, MXF, ASF, VOB, MTS

    Pricing:

    Dacast’s live streaming pricing plans begin with the Starter Plan, and include the following:

    • Starter Plan: $39/month (includes 1,000 GB of bandwidth & 50 GB of storage)
    • Event Plan: $63/month (includes 6 TB of bandwidth upfront and 50 GB of storage)
    • Scale Plan: $188/month (includes 24 TB of bandwidth per year and 1 TB of storage)
    • Dacast also has Custom plans for greater bandwidth needs.

    Get Started For Free

    2. Brightcove

    Brightcove Cloud Video Hosting Platform
    Brightcove is generally a well-rounded OTT hosting choice.

    Brightcove is a US-based streaming solution that offers a specific solution for OTT video hosting. In general, Brightcove is said to be easy to use, which is a valuable quality if you’re still new to broadcasting.

    Past users have said that the OTT host is generally reliable, and customer support is highly attentive. The major downfall? The analytics tool is not very sharp. Other than that, Brightcove’s features are highly desirable for any OTT broadcaster.

    API Access:

    Access to API and mobile SDKs is available on Brightcove.

    Monetization:

    Brightcove supports subscription-based and pay-per-view monetization.

    Security:

    This OTT video platform keeps your content safe with content encryption, SSO, IP and Domain restrictions, and Geo-Restrictions.

    Bandwidth:

    For OTT Broadcasting, you’ll need to use Brightcove’s “Monetization” plan. Unfortunately, there is no public information on how much bandwidth will cost on this plan.

    Pros:

    • Custom video player landing pages
    • CRM integration available
    • Wide range of professional broadcasting features

    Cons:

    • No China video delivery
    • Very expensive (according to user reviews)

    Upload Guidelines and Specs:

    • Minimum dimension: Determined by user
    • Maximum dimension: Determined by user 
    • Aspect ratio: No restrictions (since Brightcove uses a responsive player)
    • Max file size: No limits on files size
    • Max video length: No published limits
    • Total file storage: Varies by plan
    • Compatible video formats: MP4, MOV, FLV, AVI, WMV, MKV, 3GPP

    Pricing:

    Brightcove has multiple pricing plan levels to meet each broadcaster’s unique OTT hosting needs. These include the following:

    • Starter: includes 50 to 200 videos, up to 100,000 plays, and 2-5 users
    • Professional: unlimited videos, 100,000+ plays, and no overages plays, with +10 users
    • Enterprise: unlimited videos, 100,000+ plays, and no overages plays, with 10+ users, unlimited upload, and analytics-only users

    Brightcove doesn’t publish pricing for their plans online. For pricing information on the plans we’ve detailed above, contact Brightcove directly to discuss your specific business needs.

    3. IBM Cloud Video

    IBM Cloud OTT Hosting
    IBM Cloud Video is a great option for broadcasters with a large monthly budget.

    Formerly known as UStream, the IBM Cloud Video platform is one of the best OTT platforms and provides a range of powerful features at top dollar. This OTT hosting platform is one of many software available from the IBM tech powerhouse.

    This platform is best suited for OTT broadcasters with large budgets.

    API Access:

    API access to the platform is available, but only on the custom-priced “Enterprise Plans.”

    Monetization:

    IBM Cloud Video platform supports subscription and pay-per-view monetization methods.

    Security:

    Password protection and embed controls come with each plan.

    Bandwidth:

    IBM Cloud Video plans include bandwidth as “viewer hours” rather than per GB. The Silver plan includes 100 hours, the Gold Plan includes 2,000 hours, and the Platinum plan includes 5,000 hours.

    Pros:

    • Well-suited for enterprise use
    • Reliable customer support
    • Global video delivery (including to Hong Kong)

    Cons:

    • Streaming at high resolution costs extra
    • Limited tools for accessibility 

    Upload Guidelines and Specs:

    • Minimum dimension: 480p (480 x 270)
    • Maximum dimension:  4K (3840 x 2160)
    • Aspect ratio: No published aspect ratio
    • Max file size: 4 GB
    • Max video length: No published limits
    • Total file storage: 1TB – 5TB (depends on plan)
    • Compatible video formats: MKV, MP4, MOV, FLV, AVI, WMV, MPEG2, H264, H263, MPEG4, VP6, VP8, THEORA, WMV, MP3, AAC-LC, NELLYMOSER, PCM, SPEEX, VORBIS, WMA

    Pricing:

    IBM pricing plans range from $99 to $999 per month and include the following:

    • Silver – $99/month
    • Gold – $499/month
    • Platinum – $999/month
    • Custom – Please contact IBM Cloud video for custom plan pricing.

    4. Vimeo OTT

    Vimeo ott hosting
    Vimeo OTT is a specialized solution for OTT streaming.

    Vimeo acquired Livestream in 2017, which gave Vimeo the ability to offer live streaming solutions. Vimeo’s OTT solution is one of the three advanced solutions that Vimeo has available for streaming service providers under the Livestream name.

    Vimeo OTT is a specialized video hosting solution designed specifically for broadcasters using the OTT streaming service business model. 

    API Access:

    API and mobile SDKs are available, but only with custom Enterprise plans.

    Monetization:

    Vimeo OTT can be monetized with both subscriptions and pay-per-view.

    Security:

    There is no mention of privacy or security tools on the Vimeo OTT page.

    Bandwidth:

    Vimeo advertises that OTT plans come with unlimited bandwidth.

    Pros:

    • Global content delivery
    • Customization for on-brand streaming
    • Tools for promoting interaction and engagement

    Cons:

    • Some features require professional support due to the complexity

    Upload Guidelines and Specs:

    • Recommended dimension: 720p (1280 x 720)
    • Aspect ratio: 16:9, 4:3
    • Max file size: 3GB
    • Max video length: Information not available 
    • Total file storage: Information not available
    • Compatible video formats: MP4 (recommended)

    Pricing:

    Vimeo OTT uses a bit of a complex pricing structure. There are three base OTT plans:

    • Starter – $1/subscriber per month

    Enterprise – Please contact Vimeo for Enterprise pricing.

    The Vimeo OTT page mentions a pay-as-you-go structure but does not provide information about additional costs and fees. Please contact them directly for more details.

    5. Wowza

    wowza video platform
    Wowza offers a special solution for OTT streaming and live broadcasting.

    This solution is a longtime player in the OTT streaming industry and helps you host OTT content. It launched back in 2007 as an alternative solution to the Adobe Flash Media Server.

    Wowza offers an OTT streaming alternative for businesses that place great importance on their online presence. 

    API Access:

    Wowza supports API access.

    Monetization:

    Wowza does not support video monetization.

    Security:

    Wowza supports a wide range of security features, including tokenized security, secure streaming, and more.

    Bandwidth:

    Instead of bandwidth, Wowza allows a set number of streaming hours and viewing hours for each OTT hosting plan.

    Pros: 

    • Brand customization options
    • Live stream recording and auto-archiving
    • Easy to use video CMS
    • High-quality streaming (Ultra HD/4K)
    • Reliable security options

    Cons:

    • No native support for simulcasting 
    • No support for video monetization 
    • No reliable video analytics tools

    Upload Guidelines and Specs:

    • Minimum dimension: 240p (320 x 240)
    • Maximum dimension: 4K (3840 x 2160) 
    • Aspect ratio: 16:9, 4:3
    • Max file size: Not available
    • Max video length: Not available
    • Total file storage: 250 GB (depends on the plan)
    • Compatible video formats: MP4, FLV, MP3, SMIL, AMLST, ID3, NGRP

    Pricing:

    Wowza has several pricing options that are split into 2 main tiers: Wowza Video and Wowza Streaming Engine.

    Wowza Video:

    Wowza Video offers four distinct pricing plans and services. These plans include:

    • Pay As You Go: $25/month, billed monthly. You’ve to pay $2.5/hour of streaming, $0.10/hour of viewing time, and $0.20/month for every additional GB used.
    • One Month of Streaming: $149 one-time purchase. It includes 15 hours of live streaming and 500 viewing hours. You have to pay for storage as needed at $0.20/month for each GB used.
    • Annual: $1560/year; includes 300 hours of live streaming and 10,000 viewing hours, along with 150 GB storage.
    • Enterprise: Customized plans based on your requirements.

    Wowza Streaming Engine:

    The Wowza Streaming Engine has its own pricing plans. These professional-grade streaming plans are billed annually and include:

    • Basic Monthly: $195/month + $195/month for each additional instance. 
    • One Month of Streaming: $295/month + $295month for each additional instance
    • Basic Annual: $2100/year + $195/month for each additional instance.

    Enterprise: Please contact Wowza directly for access to their custom-tailored high volume enterprise solutions

    6. JW Player

    Video hosting for OTT
    JW Player is a trusty video hosting option.

    JW Player has been serving broadcasters as an OTT video solution for over a decade. JW Player’s claim to fame is that their video player technology is part of YouTube’s first video player.

    This platform offers OTT video solutions for broadcasters in several different industries, including fitness, education, church, and sports.

    API Access:

    JW Player includes API access and SDKs for mobile support.

    Monetization:

    JW Player uses ad integrations for video monetization.

    Security:

    JW Player’s security tools include geo-restriction, tokenized security, secure HLS encryption, and digital rights management.

    Bandwidth:

    JW Player offers different amounts of bandwidth for different OTT hosting plans. 

    The free trial comes with 25 GB of bandwidth for hosting and 75 GB of bandwidth for streaming. The Starter plan comes with 150 GB of bandwidth for hosting and 500 GB of bandwidth for streaming. Custom plans have custom bandwidth allotments.

    Pros: 

    • High-quality video player
    • Clean user-interface 

    Cons:

    • Limited monetization options (Only supports AVOD)
    • Limited tech support
    • No China delivery

    Upload Guidelines and Specs:

    • Minimum dimension: 360p (640 x 360)
    • Maximum dimension: 1080p (1920 x 1080)
    • Aspect ratio: 16:9, 4:3, 2.39:1
    • Max file size: 25GB
    • Max video length: Not available
    • Total file storage: 25GB to 500GB (depends on the plan)
    • Compatible video formats: MP4, WMV, AVI, MOV, 3GP, FLV

    Pricing:

    With JW Player, live streaming support begins at a free trial level. There are 3 pricing plan tiers:

    • 30-day free trial subscription which includes full API and SDK access, and a non-commercial license, with 25 GB hosting bandwidth and 75 GB streaming.
    • Video Platform: These plans are available with custom pricing. You can choose the tools and features you require.

    7. Kaltura

    Kaltura streaming and business video hosting solution
    Kaltura is another great option for OTT video hosting.

    Kaltura is an open-source OTT video hosting platform that is great for broadcasters that need a more customizable solution. This hosting solution makes it possible for users to integrate thousands of different programs to create the broadcasting experience that best suits their needs.

    That said, the ultra-customizable nature of this platform makes it a bit complicated, so it is definitely not well-suited for beginners, even though it’s one of the best OTT platforms.

    API Access:

    Kaltura is an open-source platform, so users use APIs to integrate different programs. This gives broadcasters access to whatever features they want or need.

    Monetization:

    Broadcasters can integrate different monetization programs to monetize their streams.

    Security:

    Security tools can be integrated with Kaltura. 

    Bandwidth:

    Kaltura users spend credits to increase their bandwidth to host OTT videos.

    Pros: 

    • Completely customizable 
    • Very few limits on features thanks to integrations
    • Well-suited for advanced broadcasters

    Cons:

    • The “pay-as-you-go” structure often makes it more expensive to use
    • Complicated platform 
    • Not cut out for beginner broadcasters
    • Slow-to-respond tech support

    Upload Guidelines and Specs:

    • Minimum dimension: 180p (320 x 180)
    • Maximum dimension: 1080p (1920 x 1080)
    • Aspect ratio: 16:9, 4:3
    • Max file size: 2GB
    • Max video length: Not available
    • Total file storage: 10GB to Unlimited (depends on the plan)
    • Compatible video formats: MOV, MP4

    Pricing:

    Kaltura’s pricing uses a very flexible model that allows users to purchase credits to spend on features and bandwidth. Please contact their sales team for a custom quote.

    8. Vidyard

    ott hosting vidyard platform
    Vidyard is an OTT video host geared towards business use.

    Vidyard is a reliable OTT hosting solution that provides tools specifically for businesses. This video hosting platform is geared towards marketing and sales.

    The Vidyard platform provides features to improve audience reach and viewer engagement which makes it a valuable tool for generating qualified leads.

    API Access:

    Vidyard offers API access.

    Monetization:

    Vidyard does not have support for OTT video monetization.

    Security:

    Vidyard has limited security options, including password protection and SSO.

    Bandwidth:

    Vidyard advertises unlimited bandwidth for all plans.

    Pros: 

    • Tools for an advanced broadcasting experience
    • Powerful video analytics
    • Reliable technical support

    Cons:

    • Inconsistent positive user reviews 
    • No support for China video delivery

    Upload Guidelines and Specs:

    • Minimum dimension: 360p (480 x 360)
    • Maximum dimension: 4K (3840 x 2160)
    • Aspect ratio: 16:9, 4:3
    • Max file size: 5GB to 16GB (depends on the plan)
    • Max video length: 1 hour (live stream)
    • Total file storage: Not available
    • Compatible video formats: WEBM, MP4, MKV, MOV

    Pricing:

    Vidyard splits its OTT video streaming pricing into four tiers, split amongst two categories: Individual and Teams.

    Individuals

    • Free – $0/month
      • Upto 25 videos in library
      • Video editing features
      • Possible to share by email, social media, etc.
    • Pro – $19/month, billed annually
      • Unlimited video creation
      • Video insights
      • Fair feature access
    • Business – Talk to Sales
      • Fully-customizable video CTAs
      • Complete video analytics 
      • CRM/MAP integrations

    Check out Vidyard’s pricing page for more information.

    Teams

    • Teams – $300/month
      • Unlimited video uploads, hosting, and  creation
      • 3+ users
      • Video recording up to 1 hour
      • 50 video embeds
      • Great features access
    • Business – $1250/month
      • Unlimited video uploads, hosting, and  creation
      • 5+ users
      • Video recording up to 1 hour
      • 100 video embeds
      • Full access to advanced features

    Check out Vidyard’s pricing page for more information.

    9. VPlayed

    vplayed OTT Solutions provider
    VPlayed is an OTT solutions provider that caters to broadcasters in many industries.

    VPlayed is an OTT video delivery solution and host with services for enterprises, houses of worship, sports broadcasters, education, filmmakers, and more. It offers both live streaming and on-demand video hosting. 

    Although VPlayed is designed to serve broadcasters in several industries, the main function of this platform is VOD and live stream OTT video hosting.

    API Access:

    There is no mention of API access on the VPlayed website.

    Monetization:

    VPlayed offers ad-based, subscription-based, and pay-per-view monetization.

    Security:

    VPlayed offers end-to-end content protection via DRM, AES encryption, SSO, SSL, dynamic watermarks, and password protection.

    Bandwidth:

    Contact VPlayed directly for information on how much bandwidth you can access with each plan to host OTT videos.

    Pros: 

    • Fully loaded with a wide variety of features
    • Easy to use
    • Creates a seamless viewer experience
    • Reliable customer support

    Cons:

    • No API access
    • Limited analytics and reporting
    • Limited engagement tools

    Upload Guidelines and Specs:

    • Minimum dimension: Not available
    • Maximum dimension: Not available
    • Aspect ratio: Not available
    • Max file size: Unlimited
    • Max video length: Not available
    • Total file storage: Unlimited
    • Compatible video formats: MP4, 3GP, MOV, MPEG-TS, MPEG-2 PS, MPEG1, and more

    Pricing: 

    VPlayed offers entirely customized plans, so please contact their sales team directly for additional information.

    10. Muvi

    Muvi OTT Vide Platform
    Muvi is an all-inclusive, fully-managed platform for broadcasters who want to launch OTT platforms.

    Muvi is a powerful OTT video hosting solution that helps you launch white label OTT services that can be distributed across multiple devices. From live streaming to on-demand videos, you can do it all through this OTT platform. 

    What’s more?

    It also enables you to launch live broadcasts and supports audio and music streaming as well. Hosting online video content is made easy with its built-in infrastructure, features, monetization options, and more.

    API Access:

    Vidmind offers billing API access to integrated additional tools for monetization. It is unclear whether Vidmind offers player or video API access.

    Monetization:

    Muvi supports various monetization methods including AVOD, SVOD, and TVOD. It also enables you to create coupons and promotions.

    Security:

    This OTT hosting solution comes with numerous security features like SSL, server-level security and multi-level firewall, VPN detection, geoblocking, and multi-DRM, among other things

    Bandwidth:

    Muvi offers unlimited bandwidth on all its plans. 

    Pros: 

    • Packed with numerous handy features
    • Supports most monetization methods
    • Live-streaming support
    • End-to-end OTT video hosting services

    Cons:

    • Can be quite costly to start using it.

    Upload Guidelines and Specs:

    Muvi allows unlimited uploads with every plan. The maximum video size for uploading can be 63GB. For larger files, you’ve to raise a support ticket.

    They recommend uploading .mp4 files and offer 4K support. The other file formats Muvi supports are .mov, .3gp, .flv, .m4v, .vob, .mkv, .avi, and .mpg

    Pricing: 

    • Standard – $399/month ($299/month per app)
    • Professional – $1499/month ($499/month per app)
    • Enterprise – $3900/month ($499/month per app)
    • Ultimate – Custom (Starts at $10,000/month)

    OTT Hosting on Dacast: A Success Story

    One prime example is Striv.tv, a Dacast customer that uses our video hosting solutions. Striv.tv uses the Dacast platform to stream events for a network of more than 70 secondary schools in the United States. 

    The Striv.tv system also adds value by using machine learning and automated data collection. These tools provide statistics, instant replay, and tools to help players improve their games. 

    Another example is PlaySight. This company uses high-definition cameras installed in sporting venues to stream and record matches.

    As you can see, the OTT industry represents a big umbrella of applications and uses. As such, professional OTT service providers within that umbrella need reliable business video hosting solutions.

    Please check out our Strive. tv case study for additional information on how Dacast’s OTT hosting technology has helped Strive.tv bring their platform to life.

    2023 OTT Trends

    OTT is blowing up in 2023. Before we wrap things up, let’s take a look at a few interesting trends in this industry:

    • Access to 5G is revolutionizing OTT streaming
    • More companies are using immersive video to connect with their audience
    • Media giants (Netflix, HBO, etc.) continue to rule the industry
    • CTV and smart TV streaming are growing in popularity
    • Subscription fatigue is causing OTT broadcasters to get creative with their offers (Example: Netflix introduced an ad-based tier.)

    For more information on these and other 2023 OTT trends, please check out our dedicated guide.

    FAQ

    1. What is an OTT video platform?

    An OTT video hosting platform is a solution that provides a complete suite of services for OTT apps. It enables the hosting and delivery of OTT videos and may also come with monetization features.

    1. Is Netflix an OTT provider?

    Yes, Netflix is an OTT provider that shows users OTT video content in exchange for a fixed monthly subscription fee. 

    1. What is the difference between OTT and streaming?

    OTT and streaming are two sides of the same coin. OTT is the acronym that’s used to describe video content that’s hosted online and delivered to users via streaming services rather than traditional means like cable.

    1. Is YouTube considered OTT?

    Yes, YouTube can be considered an OTT service provider. It monetizes its video content through ads and also offers an ad-free YouTube Premium pricing tier.  

    1. Which server is best for an OTT platform?

    The best OTT servers for video hosting and delivery are:

    • Dacast
    • Brightcove
    • IBM Cloud Video
    • Vimeo OTT
    • Wowza
    • JW Player
    • Kaltura
    • Vidyard
    • VPlayed
    • Muvi

    Conclusion

    Choosing an OTT video hosting platform can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the world of broadcasting. We hope this article has equipped you with the knowledge and confidence you need to choose the best OTT hosting platform for your unique broadcasting needs. 

    We recommend taking advantage of the free trials offered by the best OTT platforms to get a feel for their features.

    While we’re on the topic of free trials, why don’t you get started with Dacast? We offer a 14-day risk-free trial so that you can test our professional video hosting tools for yourself.

    All you have to do is sign up for Dacast to get started today.

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    Max Wilbert

    Max Wilbert is a passionate writer, live streaming practitioner, and has strong expertise in the video streaming industry.

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