Streaming has become an integral part of modern life, so much so that it's hard to imagine someone unfamiliar with the concept. Yet, not long ago, many found themselves pondering the question: What is streaming?

Internet Video Streaming: A Brief History

In the mid-to-late 1990s, as the internet began to gain traction among consumers, connecting meant investing in a modem, hooking it up to a computer and phone line, and dialling into a local internet service provider (ISP). However, these connections were plagued by agonizingly slow speeds.

Audio Streaming:

The internet, in its early days, wasn't designed for streaming audio or video. However, developers found a way to stream live audio, marking the birth of internet streaming. The inaugural live audio streaming event took place on Sept. 5, 1995, during a game between the Seattle Mariners and New York Yankees. Initially, there was limited long-form content due to sluggish connections and glitchy software.

Video Streaming:

Technological advancements swiftly improved streaming capabilities, making streaming video and audio a common occurrence. Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu revolutionized the delivery of movies and television shows. Content creators, including major studios like Paramount and Disney, launched their own streaming platforms, offering a plethora of on-demand content.

Overtaking Cable and Radio:

Streaming audio also witnessed significant growth, offering access to live sports, custom radio channels, and a variety of music streaming services. The popularity of audio and video streaming soared to the extent that many consumers opted to "cut the cord" on cable and satellite TV subscriptions in favour of more affordable streaming options. By June 2021, video streaming had surpassed over-the-air TV in popularity in the United States.

The Current Landscape of Streaming:

Today, streaming extends far beyond television and movies, encompassing short-form video platforms like YouTube and TikTok. With the proliferation of fast wireless internet connections, mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets have become primary platforms for streaming. The COVID-19 pandemic further underscored the importance of streaming, with remote meetings and online classes becoming commonplace.

Finding and Playing Streaming Video and Audio:

For those new to streaming, a high-speed internet connection and a compatible device are essential. Computers offer easy access to streaming services via web browsers or dedicated desktop applications. Smartphones and tablets typically utilize dedicated apps for streaming services, while smart TVs and streaming devices provide access to a wide range of streaming apps.

Encoding Streaming Media:

Streaming providers must optimize content delivery to ensure a seamless viewing experience. High-quality media files are often compressed using codecs to maximize quality while minimizing file size. While compression helps conserve streaming bandwidth, it can lead to quality degradation, such as reduced colour depth or resolution.

Video and Audio Streaming Customers:

End-users access streaming content through proprietary applications or web browsers on smartphones, tablets, or computers. Smart TVs and streaming devices offer dedicated apps for accessing streaming services, providing a user-friendly viewing experience. However, compatibility issues between streaming services and devices can impact the availability of content.

Streaming Video FAQ:

What is streaming, and how does it work?

Streaming allows users to watch videos or listen to audio content without downloading files beforehand. Data streams from a server to a decoder, enabling live or prerecorded broadcasts.

Do you need internet for streaming TV?

Yes, streaming TV requires a reliable internet connection, a compatible device, and access to streaming content.

Do you have to pay for streaming?

While some streaming platforms require paid subscriptions, many offer free or ad-supported streaming options, catering to various budgets and preferences.

In conclusion, streaming has revolutionized how we access and consume media content, offering unprecedented convenience and accessibility.

From its humble beginnings as an experimental technology to its current status as a ubiquitous feature of modern life, streaming continues to shape the digital landscape, promising new opportunities and experiences for users worldwide.