OTT Linear Broadcasting: Everything You Need to Know in 2024

Television and radio have been slowly dying out, and streaming over the internet has taken their place. Although consumers are cutting the cord on their connected TV cable and are abandoning traditional radio, there is still a demand for linear broadcasting.

OTT broadcasting is giving people access to the style of streaming that they are used to while making it more accessible than ever.

In this post, we’re going to discuss what linear broadcasting is and how the industry is shifting towards the internet. From there, we will provide an in-depth guide on how to set up OTT linear broadcasting with the help of a professional live-streaming solution.

Table of Contents

• What is Linear Broadcasting?
• The Transition from Linear TV to OTT Broadcasting
• OTT Linear Broadcasting Success Examples
• Benefits of OTT Linear Broadcasting
• Comparing Linear TV and OTT Linear Broadcasting
• Technical Breakdown of Streaming Requirements
• Regulatory and Licensing Considerations
• Content Monetization Strategies
• Integration of Audience Analytics and Personalization
• Common Challenges and Solutions
• Transition from Traditional Linear to OTT Broadcasting
• Checklist for OTT Linear Broadcasting Setup
• Trends and Future Outlook
• How to Set Up Linear OTT Broadcasting
• FAQs
• Conclusion

What is Linear Broadcasting?

Linear broadcasting refers to the continuous streaming of predetermined programs on one streaming. This is the broadcasting style that traditional television and radio stations have used for years.

Let’s say that your favorite radio station is 101.9 FM, a top 40s station. This station follows daily schedules. That schedule could look a little something like this:

• 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM: Late Nights with Larry
• 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM: The Wake Up Show with DJ SunnySide
• 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM: Weekday Chats with Liz and Lucy
• 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM: Rush Hour Jams with the Commute Crew
• 7:00 PM to 12:00 AM: Slow Down Show with DJ Spins-a-lot

Every moment of the day has scheduled programming. The producers of each show use a mix of songs, live segments, and paid ads to fill their slot. That is what linear radio looks like.

How much of the show is live or prerecorded doesn’t matter. What makes it linear broadcasting is that listeners can tune in at any time during the day and something will be on. The same applies to local channels that are available on linear broadcasts.

A linear TV example is basically every television service with local channels that have news networks and shows you can watch 24-7. 

For example, sports fans can watch NFL games or keep up with the English Premier League through linear broadcasts from TV sports channels or regional sports networks.

Live Linear Streaming vs. Live Broadcasting

Live linear streaming and live broadcasting go hand in hand, but some technical differences set them apart. 

Live linear streaming can involve pre-produced content that is simply aired during the continuous broadcast. It works similarly to conventional TV. However, unlike traditional cable, viewers require an internet connection to access content.

On the other hand, live broadcasting shares content that is being recorded in real time and published on live TV channels or online. Live broadcasters often transmit various types of content, including movies, music, and sports events.

Live linear streaming can include live broadcasting, but it doesn’t have to. A linear platform has content you can watch 24/7, that may or may not include live broadcasts.

The Transition from Linear TV to OTT Broadcasting

Although the linear broadcasting model still exists, the method of delivery is changing. People are cutting the cord on cable and opting for online alternatives powered by OTT technology.

OTT, or over-the-top technology, refers to delivering content outside of, or on top of, the traditional television networks.

One-third of American households no longer have paid cable subscriptions in 2022, and this trend looks to continue to accelerate in the coming years. 

The reason for the transition from traditional linear TV to OTT broadcasting is pretty simple: the convenience of tuning in to your favorite show from any internet-enabled device is unbeatable.

With OTT technology, users can tune into anything that is broadcasted over the internet from their smartphones, tablets, computers, and laptops. Smart TVs are also built for OTT streaming and can live stream video content just like traditional cable broadcasts, so there is absolutely nothing to sacrifice when you “cut the cord on cable” and make the switch. 

Since consumers are so rapidly moving to this age of internet streaming, traditional radio and television networks are doing their best to move along with them to satisfy their loyal audience. Linear streaming online is the future of broadcasting.

With OTT vs linear TV, OTT is leading the charge into the future.

OTT Linear Broadcasting Success Examples

The transition to OTT linear broadcasting has enabled many companies to blend traditional TV’s convenience with the flexibility of streaming. To understand this shift, it’s essential to grasp what is linear TV—a traditional model where viewers watch content scheduled at specific times. In the OTT era, this concept is evolving with platforms offering linear broadcast scheduling interfaces, making it easy to deliver content in real-time.

Pluto TV, for instance, has successfully adopted the OTT model by curating hundreds of linear channels. It mirrors the traditional TV experience but with the added advantage of being accessible on-demand across devices. Similarly, Peacock’s live linear channels offer a mix of live sports, news, and entertainment, keeping viewers engaged with scheduled programming.

While the benefits include reaching a broader audience and increased engagement, challenges like content licensing and adapting technology to match traditional TV reliability remain significant. These examples showcase how linear broadcast platforms are reimagining TV for the digital age.

Benefits of OTT Linear Broadcasting

Linear live streaming combines the benefits of traditional TV with the flexibility of digital platforms, making it an excellent option for both broadcasters and viewers. Unlike traditional linear TV broadcast, which is tied to specific regions, OTT platforms break geographical barriers. This allows broadcasters to reach global audiences, a key advantage in the ongoing OTT vs linear debate.

For viewers, the blend of linear TV vs streaming offers an engaging experience. They enjoy the curated programming of a linear TV channel while benefiting from features like personalized advertising and the ability to watch on multiple devices. This linear vs streaming mix ensures content remains relevant and accessible anytime, anywhere.

Broadcasters also gain valuable insights into linear TV channel performance, enabling them to fine-tune content and ads. Overall, linear live streaming bridges the gap between traditional and modern media, creating opportunities for growth

Comparing Linear TV and OTT Linear Broadcasting

Here’s a table we’ve created to give a comprehensive comparison of traditional linear TV and OTT linear broadcasting.

Technical Breakdown of Streaming Requirements

When discussing the technical requirements for Over-The-Top (OTT) streaming, it’s important to focus on streaming protocols like HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) and DASH (Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP). These protocols are preferred over traditional broadcasting technologies because they are designed for digital environments, providing adaptive bitrate streaming. This ensures smooth playback by adjusting the video quality based on the viewer’s internet speed, enhancing the viewing experience.

OTT platforms often aim to create linear TV channels, offering scheduled programming similar to traditional TV. Using linear video channel software, broadcasters can seamlessly deliver content in real-time. Unlike older systems, these solutions cater to modern viewers and allow greater flexibility.

To manage buffering and reduce latency, OTT services implement features like efficient encoding, caching strategies, and low-latency streaming protocols. These practices are crucial in maintaining viewer satisfaction, especially for live content. In today’s competitive landscape, understanding what is linear media and answering what are linear channels ensures broadcasters stay relevant by delivering high-quality, uninterrupted streams.

Regulatory and Licensing Considerations

Licensing and regulatory challenges are significant considerations for broadcasters using linear platforms to stream content internationally. A linear video channel, which delivers scheduled programming, must comply with the laws of each country it reaches. These regulations often vary widely, covering areas like content licensing, copyright, advertising standards, and data protection. Broadcasters need to secure rights for global or regional distribution, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Moreover, compliance with local rules on linear video delivery, such as language subtitling, cultural sensitivities, and age-appropriate ratings, is crucial to avoid penalties. Many regions also require broadcasters to meet specific technical standards and adhere to policies regarding net neutrality. These complexities make it essential for broadcasters to work with legal experts and industry partners to ensure smooth, compliant global operations.

Content Monetization Strategies

Content monetization strategies are essential for OTT platforms aiming to maximize revenue. Effective use of programmatic ads can significantly boost monetization in linear content. By leveraging advanced algorithms, platforms can deliver tailored ads to viewers in real time, enhancing engagement and ROI. Integrating these ads seamlessly into linear TV streaming experiences ensures minimal disruption, maintaining viewer satisfaction while driving ad revenue.

Building subscription packages that address specific audience needs is another powerful strategy. Segmenting viewers by preferences—such as sports enthusiasts, movie buffs, or news watchers—allows OTT platforms to offer targeted packages, increasing retention and customer satisfaction.

Top platforms like Netflix and Hulu have mastered these approaches. For instance, Hulu balances linear media ads with premium ad-free tiers, while Netflix’s new ad-supported plans attract cost-sensitive viewers, showcasing the success of diversified strategies.

Integration of Audience Analytics and Personalization

OTT platforms offer broadcasters powerful tools to analyze audience behavior and deliver tailored viewing experiences. With detailed audience analytics, these platforms provide insights into user demographics, viewing patterns, and content preferences. Key metrics like watch time, completion rates, and user retention help broadcasters understand what resonates with their viewers.

This data fuels personalized content recommendations, ensuring users discover shows and movies aligned with their tastes. By leveraging machine learning and AI-powered tools, broadcasters can segment audiences and deliver curated content for enhanced engagement.

Platforms like Google Analytics, Mixpanel, and dedicated OTT analytics services are invaluable for tracking these metrics. Such features not only improve user satisfaction but also boost loyalty, making personalized content delivery a critical feature that attracts broadcasters to the OTT space.

Common Challenges and Solutions

The transition from traditional broadcasting to OTT services comes with several challenges:

• Technical Issues: Streaming quality, buffering, and server overloads can disrupt the user experience. Ensuring consistent performance across devices and regions is complex.
• User Experience: Designing intuitive interfaces and seamless navigation for diverse user groups is crucial. There’s also the challenge of adapting content for different screen sizes and formats.
• Monetization: Generating revenue through OTT can be tricky. Balancing between subscription-based models, ads, and content licensing while maintaining a competitive edge requires careful planning.

These hurdles need to be addressed thoughtfully to ensure the success of OTT platforms in the evolving media landscape.

Transition from Traditional Linear to OTT Broadcasting

Here’s a handy flowchart and decision tree we’ve created to help you better understand the transition from traditional linear to OTT broadcasting. These simplify the decision-making process, enabling you to select the right OTT platform for you.

Flow Chart for Selecting the Right OTT Platform

• Start: Traditional Broadcast Model (Cable/Satellite TV)
  • Challenges: Limited content access, scheduling constraints, geographical reach.
  • Decision Point: Shift to OTT (Internet-based streaming)
    • Path 1: Technical Considerations (Internet speed, server capacity)
    • Path 2: User Experience (Mobile compatibility, interface design)
    • Path 3: Monetization (Subscription models, advertising)
  • End: Optimized OTT Platform (Enhanced access, flexibility, revenue generation)

Decision Tree for Selecting the Right OTT Platform

• Start: Define the target audience
  • Decision Point: Is the audience mostly mobile users?
    • Yes → Focus on mobile-first platforms.
    • No → Consider cross-device compatibility.
  • Decision Point: Budget for platform development
    • High Budget → Custom OTT platform with advanced features.
    • Limited Budget → Subscription-based or white-label solution.
  • End: Choose platform based on audience and budget.

Checklist for OTT Linear Broadcasting Setup

Setting up OTT linear broadcasting requires careful planning to ensure smooth operation and content delivery. Here’s a quick checklist to guide you through the process:

OTT Linear Broadcasting Setup Checklist:

1. Choose the Right Platform: Select a reliable OTT service provider or build a custom solution.
2. Content Licensing: Secure the rights for content and ensure compliance with local regulations.
3. Streaming Infrastructure: Ensure robust streaming servers and CDN integration to handle traffic and deliver high-quality video.
4. User Interface: Design a user-friendly interface for easy navigation across devices.
5. Monetization Strategy: Decide on a subscription, ad-supported, or hybrid model.
6. Analytics Tools: Implement tools to track viewership and content performance.
7. Test Streaming: Conduct stress tests to ensure the system handles peak usage smoothly.

This checklist can help streamline the setup process and ensure a successful launch.

Trends and Future Outlook

OTT linear broadcasting is evolving rapidly, driven by key trends. Hybrid models, combining live TV with on-demand content, are gaining popularity, offering viewers more flexibility in how they consume content. 

The integration of 5G technology is another significant development, enabling higher streaming quality with faster speeds and lower latency. Additionally, AI is becoming crucial in personalizing content delivery, enhancing recommendations, and improving user experiences. As these technologies advance, OTT linear broadcasting is likely to evolve further, with improved interactivity, better content curation, and more immersive viewing experiences. The future promises even smarter, more adaptable platforms catering to diverse viewer needs.

How to Set Up Linear OTT Broadcasting

There are two general starting points for setting up OTT linear broadcasting. Most broadcasters in your shoes are either starting from scratch or shifting from traditional linear TV.

If you already have a television or online radio station, this process is very easy since you already have a pretty good idea of how broadcasting works and you’ve got most of the required equipment. 

Even if you don’t have previous broadcasting experience and an existing brand, setting up linear broadcasting is pretty straightforward. It will just require a bit of practice and some investments. 

With that said, let’s take a look at how to set up OTT linear broadcasting.

1. Plan and Strategize

In order to avoid getting overwhelmed throughout this process, you’re going to need to go in with a solid OTT strategy plan that outlines what you want to accomplish and how you will make that happen.

At this point, you’ll have to decide what type of programs you’ll be streaming. Will you be uploading all prerecorded content, or will live video be mixed in, as well? If you already have an existing network with well-received programs, this should be easy to decide, but if you’re starting from scratch you’ve got some brainstorming to do.

First, establish who your audience will be. What do you have to offer to them, and how will you present it? Linear broadcasting generally is used for news networks and current event updates, entertainment, and education. Choose a general direction, and niche down from there.

Plan out your studio setup. If you’re doing an audio-only broadcast, this will be easy, but if you’re streaming video, having a suitable physical location becomes more important.

This stage is a good time to start thinking about your budget and how you will monetize your streams. We will discuss monetization and pricing in more detail a little bit further along.

2. Choose a Live Streaming Platform

A professional-grade live-streaming platform is essential to hosting linear broadcasts. You need a platform that is reliable and offers all of the features required for linear broadcasting.

There are a few features to look for when choosing your platform for OTT delivery:

• Live video hosting
• VOD hosting
• 24/7 streaming
• Unlimited viewers
• Ad and subscription-based monetization
• Privacy and security

You’ll also want to take a look at the costs associated with the live-streaming platform. You’ll likely pay a monthly subscription fee plus additional fees for access to extra bandwidth. Make sure it makes sense with your budget.

Some of the best live streaming platforms you can explore include Dacast, Muvi, Vidyard, Vimeo Livestream, StreamShark, Cincopa, Brightcove, and JWPlayer. 

Take a look at our OTT video platform comparison post to check out some of the best options. A strong video platform is necessary to develop an OTT linear broadcasting experience. 

3. Invest in Equipment

If you are starting from scratch you’re going to need to invest in professional-grade equipment. Recording devices, like cameras and microphones, should be a priority. You need equipment that is capable of producing high-quality content.

You’ll also need a computer to run your live streaming platform and other production software. A laptop may suffice, but for advanced broadcasting, a desktop computer with multiple monitors is ideal. 

A lot of things can be automated with linear broadcasting, but if you use any live footage, you’ll be mixing videos and switching sources in real time, so a capable computer is a must.

Your computer will also come in handy for running your encoding software. This is a tool that takes files from your camera and converts them to streamable digital files in real time. A hardware encoder is another option, but if you’re new to broadcasting, a software encoder is the safest bet.

However, if you are transitioning from traditional linear TV broadcasting, the only equipment you’ll need from this list is an encoder.

4. Schedule Your Content

Scheduling your content ahead is essential for success in linear broadcasting. This step will look a little different, depending on what live-streaming solution you use.

For Dacast, you can set up video packages and arrange different live video channels and on-demand video content to play in a certain order.

You’ll likely work out your schedule weeks or even months in advance, so on the production side, you should be able to schedule your content in bulk. As we mentioned before, any live video content will require a bit of real-time mixing and mastering which would require a bit of manpower.

Please keep in mind that if you want to stream content that you have not created, you are going to have to obtain rights to the footage. We recommend getting in touch with an entertainment lawyer if you’re planning to stream other people’s content. 

5. Set Up Monetization

Generating revenue from your broadcast station is important. There are a few main ways that broadcasters monetize linear streams: advertisements, subscriptions, or both.

Think about traditional television that you’ve been watching for years. You pay for the cable subscription, and you also watch commercials every ten minutes or so. Over-the-top linear broadcasters typically use that same general OTT monetization models. However, they usually use a paywall to restrict access. 

Radio, on the other hand, is a bit different. Sirius XM used the subscription model, but the service never became super popular. Regular radio uses sponsored advertisements, which is something you could consider doing, too.

In the situation of OTT broadcasting, the advantage to consumers is that they pay for specific channels that they want access to, rather than the hefty larger packages that traditional providers offer.

As you price your service, consider the exclusivity and value of your content. For example, the OTT platform for a video streaming service like Hulu is available for less than $10/month and it includes access to thousands of episodes and movies. For their live network, add-ons start at around $5/month. Other live TV streaming services, like ESPN+, are also around $5/month.

This should give you a good idea of where to start.

6. Promote Your Content

Promoting your content to the right audience is very important. Social media is a good place to start. You can market your content organically, use paid ads, or partner with social media influencers who will help to create hype around your content and gather more organic viewers. 

Another great way to promote your content is by sharing details of the live stream on podcasts or running email marketing campaigns to raise awareness about your OTT broadcasts. 

If you have an existing TV station or live radio station, we suggest regularly letting viewers or listeners know that they can find you online. Some broadcasters in this position make some content exclusive on their online channels to give consumers the incentive to tune in to their live radio stream online.

Get creative with your promotions, and keep your target audience in mind with any campaign you roll out.

7. Start Streaming

Once everything is planned and your equipment in place, it’s time to start streaming. But before you go live, remember to test the functionalities of your OTT platform to ensure everything is working as it should. Doing this will allow you to resolve any technical issues or usability concerns before your video content goes live. 

Don’t forget to also carry out load testing to ensure your OTT solution provider is capable of handling changes and spikes in levels of traffic. 

After testing and double-checking for errors, you can now start streaming. On most platforms and live TV services, this should be as easy as clicking “Start Streaming.”

For more information on producing a linear stream, check out our dedicated guide.

FAQs

1. How can I watch TV online without cable?

If you want to “cut the cable” and access TV services online, you can use smart TVs and streaming devices to enjoy a cable-free experience. Some live TV streaming services include Hulu + LiveTV. YouTube TV, Sling TV, and DirectTV Stream.

2. What is the difference between Linear TV and OTT?

Linear TV refers to the conventional broadcasting method that involves airing TV programs via cable or satellite according to a predetermined lineup. Alternatively, OTT broadcasting gives viewers the option to choose what they want to watch as long as they have an internet connection.  

3. How much does it cost to livestream an event?

The costs of live streaming an event differ based on the type of equipment and live streaming platform you use. For example, with a professional video hosting service like Dacast, the Starter plan costs $39 monthly, while the event plan costs $63. Vimeo Livestream costs $75 monthly for the Premium plan, with customized pricing for higher tiers.  

4. What live TV streaming service is the best?

Live TV streaming services often offer more convenience and flexibility than conventional TV. Some of the best live TV streaming services include:

• YouTube TV
• Sling TV
• DirectTV Stream
• Apple TV
• Hulu + Live TV

5. Which streaming service has the most channels?

With live streaming services like Hulu + Live TV, you can get access to over 90 channels, including MLB Network, Paramount Network, NFL Network, and NBA TV in addition to other on-demand content

Conclusion

Are you ready to transition from linear television and start linear broadcasting over the internet? With the support of the right livestream hosting platform, this should not be that difficult to accomplish.

In order to choose the video hosting platform that suits your needs, we recommend taking advantage of free trials. In fact, you can start with Dacast.

Our 14-day risk-free trial includes access to all of our professional broadcasting features. All you have to do to get started is sign up for a Dacast account today. No credit card required. Just click the link below to start streaming today!

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Do you have any questions, comments, or concerns about OTT and linear broadcasting? Let us know in the comments section, below!

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Thanks for reading, and good luck with your live broadcasts!