We all know that Cloud TVs have taken over the traditional TVs for a while now. And the day is not far when Cloud TVs will replace the so-called Televisions fully. To give you an estimation- as per a recent report, the global cloud TV market is set to grow to US $4.2 billion by 2026 from its US $1.2 billion benchmark in 2020. While the demand for higher user experience, on-demand viewing, interactive viewing experience, and others are driving its popularity, a majority of the companies are leveraging this new trend. And in this blog we will give you an overview of what this cloud TV and cloud TV platform really means, its advantages, features and many more. So, read on!
What is a Cloud TV?
Cloud TV is a software platform that provides advanced user interfaces and on-demand video experiences by virtualizing CPE or STB functionality. CPE (Customer-premises Equipment or Customer-provided Equipment) is a well-known term in telecommunications. CPE is basically any terminal and associated equipment that is located at a subscriber’s premises and connected with a carrier’s telecommunication circuit. And an STB (Set-top Box), as we know, displays the outputs to a television set based on the inputs.
In simpler words- cloud TV is a more flexible and user-friendly version of the traditional TVs where viewers can stream TV shows/content online as per their choice.
For more information on online cloud tv read our blog: How to create an Online cloud TV Channel
How Cloud TVs Work?
A cloud TV virtualizes the user interface across various STB generations by translating the UI to streaming and video. The steps followed by a cloud platform are as shown below-
The cloud platform takes various graphics and videos to process → it then converts them into a single HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) or MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) feed → Delivers it by IP VOD services through STBs
A cloud TV acts like a cloud-based center that controls various video service providers and multi-screen operators and reduces the need for multiple video streaming service providers and system operators. As cloud TVs are equipped with advanced streaming functions, viewers can easily stream the content of their choice on their laptops, smartphones, tablets etc. No doubt that cloud TVs are used widely in streaming movies, TV shows, live TVs, OTT content etc. on TV screens.
Why are Cloud TVs on the Rise?
With the exponentially increasing adoption of cloud TVs in the streaming and entertainment sectors, the day is not far when cloud TVs will completely replace the traditional TVs. And there are several factors driving the inclination towards cloud TVs-
Unlike the traditional TVs, cloud TVs don’t require in-house infrastructure that incurs higher cost. Even for the service providers who have just started incorporating cloud services, the investments in hardwares, installation and maintenance are expected to get reduced gradually. This being favorable to both the service providers and consumers, works as a significant factor to the growing adoption of cloud TV services.
Scalability & Flexibility
Most of the companies in the streaming industry require these two features in order to grow. And cloud TVs cater to this very well. Not only can cloud TVs easily accommodate the preferences and demand of various users from various demographics, but also offer high flexibility in terms of volume of content consumption, growing number of viewers, sudden spike in watch hours, globalizing your cloud TV services etc.
One of the major advantages of cloud TVs is the workflow automation that does not require any in-house IT operations related to upgrading, migrating, maintenance etc. Starting from routing to content delivery through CDNs (Content Delivery Networks), cloud TVs are much faster and hassle free when it comes to various operational activities. And if you are skeptical about moving all the resources to the cloud, then note that multi-DRM technologies are there to safeguard from any possibility of data breaches or cyber threats.
In order to sustain in the highly competitive environment, you must have the insights on every single parameter- be it viewers watch time or engagement rate or content acquisition. In a quality cloud TV platform, you get the 360 degree view on these through the regularly generated analytical reports. As a result, you can come up with better content and revenue optimization plans.
Cloud TVs let the users stream what they prefer instead of bombarding them with unwanted, redundant content. As it works on a data driven approach, you can deliver your audience more precise videos, shows, movies and other content that are aligned with their demand. And no wonder it gives the service providers better competitive advantages!
The Bottom Line
With the increase in requirement for cloud based playout solutions, the time to utilize cloud TVs has come. Irrespective of your position in the current streaming industry, you should extend your services to cloud TVs to capture the new opportunities it can bring. With more and more customers opting for cloud TVs, this is definitely a fast, convenient, and secure way to grow your streaming business further as well as start a new one.
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