The Future of Video Streaming: Key Trends and Technologies

Video streaming is more than an entertainment source, it’s an art. Businesses use it to advertise, schools use it to educate, and entrepreneurs use it to engage with consumers and optimize brand awareness.

From social streaming sites like YouTube to Blockbuster streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime, it’s not hard to see how important video streaming has become to society.

At VidOvation, we help professionals integrate live streaming and other wireless video options into your current infrastructure. Here, we’ll discuss some of the latest trends and technologies in video streaming. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, here’s what you need to know.

Mobile Video Streaming

One of the biggest trends in wireless video is mobile streaming. Consumers and businesses alike are consuming more media through their smartphones and tablets. In fact, according to The Business Blog, last year, more than 79% of live streaming took place over mobile devices.

Mobile streaming mainly takes place through specified streaming apps or social media. Social sites like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok let users enjoy videos through reels or as live streams. Other mobile streaming apps include:

• Netflix
• Disney +
• Paramount +
• Hulu
• Amazon Prime
• Twitch
• Crackle
• Apple TV
• Crave (Canada)

The mobile trend applies to consumers of all ages but is vastly appreciated by Gen Z and Millennials.

More Streaming for Longer Periods

Streaming video has become such a staple in our lives that our time spent watching them has grown significantly. The Nielsen State of Play Report suggests that from Feb 2021 to Feb 2022 Americans increased streaming time from 143.2 billion minutes to 169.4 minutes. That’s a change of 26.2 billion minutes.

With more Americans tuning into streaming apps and live video opportunities, it’s a great time for businesses to invest in custom video and streaming options.

Shorter Videos

Short-form and long-form content are always in contention in business. Should blogs be longer? Should web pages contain less information in a more structured format? With videos, the trends make it cut and dry. Short-term videos, also called reels, are very popular right now.

There was a time when long-form YouTube videos were all the rage. People would find their favorite YouTuber and tune in to learn about cooking, camping, and simply follow along with “A Day in the Life Of.” TikTok was a game changer.

For Gen Z, the invention of TikTok made long-form video content a thing of the past. Suddenly, we’re seeing reels (short-form videos) on other platforms as well, including Facebook, Instagram, and even YouTube.

High-Def Video Streaming

With 3D movies and 4K televisions, it’s no surprise the modern consumer has come to expect no different from video streaming. The trend for high-definition reels is on the rise. Content creators are using better quality lighting, cameras, and equipment to create the highest resolution possible.

Streaming sites, in turn, have updated their software and implemented faster load times to keep up with demand.

Interaction and Engagement

Netflix and Prime movies might not have a “comment” feature, but YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and other social streaming sites do. Live video streaming interaction has become a big draw from fans of various content creators.

In a live stream, viewers can like and comment as the video is taking place. The content creator can engage directly with viewers verbally as the video is taking place. The most-watched live-streaming platform is currently Twitch.

Twitch is a video game streaming site. It allows gamers to connect and interact, sharing their screen as they take on their favorite video games. It has more than 140 active visitors each month, streaming content.

Video Streaming Ad Support

Ads are a big part of most business marketing strategies, even in streaming video. Ads aren’t a favorite popup among consumers, but many prefer them to pay for a subscription. Some streaming platforms, including Netflix, now offer discounted options to consumers who opt for ads during video play.

Professional YouTubers also count on ad placement to increase revenue as viewers consume content. For your business and brand, a little marketing research might be necessary to find the right balance.

Working with a professional video streaming service provider can help you make an informed decision.

Contact VidOvation Today

We hope this blog has helped shed some light on the latest trends in live video and video streaming. As your business takes the plunge into wireless video, or if you’re simply looking to improve your current setup, we can help.

VidOvation stays on the cutting edge of all things video. Contact us today to implement a system that suits your needs!