Are you hoping to make the most out of your live streaming platform? If so, you will likely find that you need to reduce live streaming latency in order to retain viewers.
In this post, we’ll look at what live streaming latency is, how it benefits you, and how to find the right low latency streaming service.
What Is Low Latency Streaming?
Video latency is how much delay takes place between the capturing of a video frame and the display of that frame to the person viewing it. Therefore, low latency live streaming means there is less delay between the actual live stream and the display of that frame to the audience.
You might be wondering why does latency occur? Latency occurs due to how long it takes to process and then send that live video broadcast to viewers. It boils down to the following factors:
- type of camera used in the processing of images
- kinds of encoders used for transcoding
- the transmission of the video
- buffering
- the ability of the device to decode and finally display the video
Though this delay is especially problematic if one device in your household is streaming at a lower latency than another device, or you’re watching a sporting event. The lower the latency, the better the real-time streaming to viewers.
With live streams ranging in latency by as much as 30-120 seconds, it can become exceedingly problematic to have a slow startup time or a delayed display on viewers’ screens.
How Can Low Latency Streaming Services Benefit You?
That’s where low latency streaming services such as BeLive Technology can be of the utmost benefit to those using video streaming platforms to broadcast video content and receive video content. The longer your videos take to start up, the less likely viewers are going to want to stick around, leading to them abandoning your video and negatively impacting your ratings.
If you’re hosting a live sporting event, auction, game, dual-screen viewing, or other live streams that involve audience participation, then you will especially need low latency live streaming to help your audience feel like they’re as close to participating in-person as possible.
Similarly, if you are exploring live e-commerce, low latency live streaming will also be essential so that you can host flash deals or voucher codes smoothly.
Choosing The Best Solution To Live Stream Without Delay
Though there are only a limited number of low latency video streaming platforms available today, you will find that each available platform has its own pros and cons, be it pricing, features, or functions.
Here are a few things to look for when choosing the best live video streaming for minimal delay:
Does It Have an HLS Streaming Protocol Delivery?
The most telling feature to look for is whether or not your video streaming platform uses an HLS streaming protocol. This protocol was created by Apple and stands for HTTP Live Streaming. It’s designed to work smoothly with HTML5 video players, which is the new-and-improved technology that has replaced Adobe Flash Player.
Make Sure It Has 15 Seconds of Latency or Less
Generally speaking, you will want to find a service that offers latency under 15 seconds if you want to look professional, but you can also find platforms that have ultra-low latency, meaning it only takes a few seconds, if that, to be broadcasted.
For some service providers, the latency is adjustable to your needs. For example, BeLive Technology is able to set the latency from as low as 0.3 seconds to slightly higher at 15 seconds.
Is It Easy to Set Up and Use?
Broadcasting isn’t always an easy field to enter. If you’re new to it, or you don’t have a designated live streaming team, then you might wish to find a low latency solution that is very user-friendly. It will save you the trouble of having to figure out numerous, confusing features.
You’ll also want to make sure that the solution you choose has solid customer support in case you have any questions or need additional assistance.
For BeLive Technology, they custom develop your live streaming platform with the end-user in mind. This means that while their technology is high-end, the functionalities and experiences of the user is always smooth and intuitive. To top it off, they have a dedicated customer support team to tend to you anytime.
It’s Reliable
Buffering issues are surprisingly common for those using a low latency live streaming platform. Therefore, it’s recommended that you use a good Content Delivery Network (CDN) to deliver your content quickly.
Fits Your Budget
Lastly, be sure that you have the budget for the platform in question. Some platforms look affordable initially, but the subscription plan changes after the first year or the introductory discount expires, or you find you need to upgrade to get the most out of the platform.
BeLive Technology offers flexible live streaming solutions for businesses. Partners of BeLive Technology have reported high returns of investments from their live streaming platforms.
If you are looking to build a live streaming platform for your business, BeLive Technology has the perfect features.
Want to learn more? Contact BeLive Technology now.
