Battle of the OTT Streaming Service
While the doctors and nurses are on the frontlines of this global pandemic slowing down the spread of COVID-19 and flattening the curve, the rest of us are being encouraged to stay safe at home. Being quarantined at home during the COVID-19 pandemic with no date of when we can enjoy a movie at the movie theaters or have a dinner party with friends at our favorite restaurant, Americans are turning to the internet seeking out entertainment. Many are tired of being indoors and running out of new recipes to try as well as arts and crafts ideas. Over-the-top (OTT) media streaming services such as Netflix and Spotify are reaching a wider audience than before the pandemic, leaving many wondering how will these services adapt with the amount of exponential growth they have experienced in such a short amount of time?
Within the past few years, they have seen their users increasingly moving forward their app, driving an industrywide focus on mobile development. However, now that we are practicing safety precautions at home, where our computers are close at hand, Americans are opting for a comfortable watch experience that doesn’t involve unpleasant squinting on their phone screens.
Other than Netflix showing high app downloads in a market that has been hit hardest by the pandemic and Disney+ strengthening its position with children and families especially while some schools are distance learning, streaming while quarantining is becoming America’s new favorite pastime. Netflix leading in its market has even provided room for the growth of newcomer streaming services such as Peacock and HBO Max. Given this scenario, it is worth taking a look at how the pandemic is affecting the traditional TV experience. This immediate shift in consumer behavior makes one question, how are people using technology to access information, entertainment and virtual community while being isolated? From new concepts like Zoom “happy hours,” an increase in podcast listeners and creatives as well as a boost in digital music streaming with DJs hosting live streamed parties over social media platforms.
As we move forward, many are taking into consideration if these numbers are going to be constant or fall off once the pandemic is over and people aren’t home as much. However, data from the GWI Coronavirus Research shows more than 75% of online streamers say they will continue to consume the same level of content they do now post-pandemic. One plus for consumers is being able to cut bill costs and discover content they enjoy with free services as incentives like Spotify and YouTube.
Trends always come and go, but now more than ever, people are in need of some laughs, some comforting distractions, and moments of community. Only time can tell where the media industry may shift, but staying up-to-date with these new media service tools will help keep you relevant in community engagement, ranking and searches. You can use these services to your advantage especially with multiple ad options used commonly on YouTube, digital music platforms like Soundcloud, even podcast advertisements from Spotify to Apple. These streaming services have shown us what we think so simply of can be a great resource to reimagine how we engage with our audience and boost leads.
If you could utilize any streaming services, which would you use to boost your exposure?
Would you like ad space on a YouTube video, sponsor a podcast for a content creator to review your product or would you host an exclusive live stream to engage with your audience? Tell us what you would do to take advantage of the expansion being projected from digital media today.
If you are ever in need of insight on developing exceptional digital advertising practices, feel free to contact us at info@skylinemediainc.com or call our office located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma at (405) 286-0000.
Written by: Dejaih Smith, Content Writer @ Skyline Media Group