What is VOD?
Understanding the difference between OTT, VOD, SVOD, TVOD, and AVOD
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital media consumption, new terms and acronyms often emerge, leaving many users puzzled about their meanings. Two such terms are OTT and VOD, which are frequently used in the context of streaming services. Additionally, there are variations of VOD, such as SVOD, TVOD, and AVOD. Let's unravel the distinctions between these terms and shed light on their significance in the world of online content delivery.
TL;DR OTT (Over-The-Top) is a method to deliver media over the internet. VOD (Video-on-Demand) is an ability to get video content any time. Both OTT and VOD can describe Netflix and UpReplay. SVOD, TVOD and AVOD are ways to pay for the content: by subscription, by transaction or by advertisements.
OTT: Over-The-Top
OTT refers to the method of delivering media content over the internet, bypassing traditional broadcast or cable television platforms. It allows content providers to transmit video, audio, and other media directly to viewers through the internet. OTT services usually come in the form of dedicated apps or websites that users can access on various devices like smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices. Examples of popular OTT platforms include Netflix, Hulu, CanalPlus, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. OTT can encompass various types of services, including video-on-demand (VOD), live streaming, linear channels, and interactive experiences.
VOD: Video-on-Demand
VOD is a specific type of content delivery model where users have the flexibility to access and watch video or audio content at any time they choose. Unlike traditional broadcast television, VOD eliminates the need to adhere to predetermined schedules. Instead, users can select their desired content from a library of movies, TV shows, or other digital media and stream it instantly. OTT platforms often incorporate VOD functionality, allowing users to enjoy a wide range of content on-demand, at their convenience.
SVOD: Subscription Video-on-Demand
SVOD is a form of VOD that operates on a subscription-based model. Users pay a recurring fee, usually on a monthly or yearly basis, to gain access to a library of content. Services like Netflix, CanalPlus and Amazon Prime Video are prime examples of SVOD platforms. With an SVOD subscription, users can stream unlimited content from the platform's catalog, giving them the freedom to explore a vast array of movies, TV series, documentaries, and more. UpReplay offers the ability to build a SVOD platform in few clicks to create a Netflix-like, monetize customers and publish video contents easily.
TVOD: Transactional Video-on-Demand
Transactional Video-on-Demand (TVOD) is another variation of VOD that allows users to access specific content on a pay-per-view or pay-per-rental basis. In TVOD, users typically pay a one-time fee to watch a particular movie, TV episode, or event for a limited duration. Platforms like iTunes and Google Play Movies provide TVOD services, enabling users to rent or purchase individual titles from their libraries. This TVOD feature is also possible with UpReplay.
AVOD: Advertising Video-on-Demand
Advertising Video-on-Demand (AVOD) is a VOD model where users can access content for free, but it is ad-supported. AVOD platforms generate revenue by incorporating advertisements that play before, during, or after the content. YouTube, for instance, operates on an AVOD model, offering a vast range of videos that users can watch at no cost, supported by advertisements.