What is live streaming exactly? (Definition & Examples) |

Oct 31, 2024

The live streaming (or livestreaming) is so popular that nearly a third web viewers stream live every week. It is possible to stream and watch live across a variety of devices and platforms, and it is more simple to begin.

In this post in this post, we'll present to you the essential information you must be aware of regarding live stream.

  • The following article will go over live streaming in depth (including an explanation of the technical issues).
  • Live streaming statistics, as well as other notables.
  • Discussion will be focused on benefits as well as practical examples that show why a live stream is a viable alternative.
  • And we'll go over the steps required in order to make your personal streaming live.


What exactly is live streaming?


Quick live streaming definition


Live streaming refers to the process of broadcasting to the live stream of a viewer in real time. Prior to that, could only be done by companies in the media industry with the ability to broadcast live videos to their viewers. The ability to stream live video is exploding across the internet with more and more users streaming and soaking up the live experience at home and without the cost of television studios.


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What exactly is live streaming... technological


Coding
    Technically speaking, your camera can output photographs in digital format. They are however too huge for streaming properly. Thus, using an encoder (software or hardware) reduces the size of the video in real-time to codescs (ie. h.264). This is why the file size shrinks to the size of a stream as well as making the standard format to guarantee that each device has the capability of reading it.


Compression
    The video is split into what are called I-frames and P-frames as well as B-frames. I-frames look like a traditional JPEG image. They have a full image frame that includes the entire information.


P-frames and B-frames operate slightly different. They simply capture the part of the video which change by tracking motion vectors. It results in a smaller file, which is more compact, as well as better suited for replay. For instance, in the example of a YouTube video which has an audio track in a background that isn't changing most of the background pixels won't be changed.


   

  • P-frames (Predictive frames) can only encode the movement and the changes to the body the body and speaker motions using the look back of the previous frames.
  • B-frames also work, due to their ability to reference the previous frame and any subsequent ones which allows for a complete image.


Internet speed
    Live streaming is a continuous stream of data. It is also known in the field of bit rates. It is the amount of information that your device can stream in a second.


   

  • HD (720 (HD) video is required to run at speeds of 4 to 4.5 speeds
  • 1080p needs at minimum 4 speeds
  • The 4k standard requires between 15 and 25 Mbps


If you're doing live streaming, the upload speed needs to be able to handle the volume of data being transmitted by the stream.


Viewers do not need the same amount of speed. Video players decrease quality in the event of slow connections or buffer (downloading around 2-30 minutes before the beginning of every session) for making streaming smooth. Additionally, we utilize Content Delivery Networks (CDNs)--this copies your files instantly to servers close to the player as they require data to be transmitted over greater distances.


Latency


It is possible that the video isn't really live. There is a possibility that there's an interval of just a few seconds. This is known the latency.


Statisticians streaming live Statisticians streaming live


   


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Live stream is an first phase in making it feasible (Timeline)


This list isn't comprehensive, we've compiled a short outline of the technology advancements that enable live streaming.


In the 1990s, we witnessed the rise of new technologies that allow "packets" of media to be streamed and rendered before downloading the entire file.
    1993-93 - 1993-93 - The MPEG-1 Standard for compression was created, which allows the streaming of video
    1995 1995 Starlight is a business Starlight invented the first streaming video system that relied on satellites.
     1995- First internet radio: Radio HK.
    1995 In 1995 RealPlayer is launched, which becomes the first significant stream media player. The program later gets added to the available alternatives to Windows 98 installation.
    1996 - Real-time Transport Protocol was invented in 1996. It provides an infrastructure for the transmission of audio and videos over networks.
    19981998 Starlight introduced the very first web-based conference products.
    1999 - The Victoria's Secret fashion show, which was a huge success, is the first major live stream show that has a potential of 1.5 million viewers.
    2002, 2002 Flash Player adds video capabilities to make embedding video feasible.
    2007 - Launch of Justin.tv (later changed to Twitch), which included Justin Kan who was the cameraman who was on call 24 hours a day. It eventually grew to multiple channels, which allowed the general public to stream.
    2009 The two streams, Ustream and Live stream both launched
    2011 2012 YouTube has introduced live streaming on its platforms. It first came out in 2005 (fun information: the initial video was called "Me at the Zoo"). Facebook launched live streaming in the year 2015, Periscope in 2015, as well as Instagram in 2016.


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Live streaming benefits


Live Streaming is a method to deliver energy.


   

  • Super interactive Viewers can't be able to simply view their content in real-time. but also enjoy the capacity to communicate about their experiences or ask questions and offer feedback through various ways.
  • Unfinished and unaltered, with the exception of edited videos, where the creator may feel pressured to fix however live streaming isn't able to accomplish this (at the very least for now). Thus, live streams appear authentic and much more entertaining.
  • It is also less time-consuming It may require be some setup and preparation, however live streaming typically requires less work than working hard on creating an edited video, which could need editing, scripting, motion-staging, and so on.
  • Lower costs for production It's typically less expensive to start and to launch.
  • Repurposing is that you can cut and alter the live stream in diverse formats and use in the future and also create an audio version of the stream, or video.
  • There's an urgency. Live streaming feels a little more significant. When someone makes a recording after the event, watching live makes you feel special and helps increase uptake.


How can you live stream





This video provides a good overview of this video, particularly if you're beginning your adventure using live streaming!


But, we've also offered the details of live streaming options to producers. .


To live stream, you need:


1. AV source


One of the best things regarding live streaming is that it has no need for expensive technological advancements. New smartphones are equipped with all the essential features required to manage live streaming.


Below are a few possible videos you could consider:


   

  • Smartphone videos: Many smartphones can create HD video. Newer models are able to record in 4K. Take note that the phone's front and back camera might have different specs. Both cameras are likely suitable for a live stream. It is the easiest way to stream directly through your smartphone.
  • Webcam: Some broadcasters who use computer systems choose to use a built-in webcam in their computer or an external webcam. This can be used primarily for live streaming which can be done using laptops or computers.
  • Cameras that are professional: most skilled streamers typically use professional cameras, like DSLRs that stream live. These cameras can be linked to a laptop or smartphone and can send better quality video as well as giving users the choice of selecting the lens that is most compatible with your preferences and experience.


You'll also require an audio system! Below are a few ideas:


   

  • The built-in microphone on your phone or computer (not advised) The phone's or computer's microphone is way too far from your mouth during streaming. They are not sound recorders of high quality. Better to select from the choices below.
  • The Bluetooth or wired headphones have the microphone placed near your mouth, improving the sound quality and decreasing background disturbance. A headset can be more effective than using the built-in microphone on the device.
  • Lapel microphone: This microphone is a clip that you can put on your collar or shirt and captures sounds that are near your mouth, making the sound more high-quality. It is wired or wireless, and certain top-quality microphones include characteristics like noise canceling.
  • Shotgun microphone The microphone of the shotgun is at a distance of a couple feet from your face (often it is connected to the top of the camera) and records the direction in which you speak.
  • Condenser microphone for the desktop A lot of streamers make use of desktop condenser microphones such as Blue Yeti. Blue Yeti, which plugs directly into your computer, captures sound directly from your mouth.


Here's a few additional ideas to stream live for you to enhance your gameplay.


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2. Software to stream (optional)


Streaming software is not required to be purchased because you can live stream directly to popular platforms. But streaming software might be an excellent choice for those seeking:


   

  • that allows sharing pictures for sharing images on the computer screen. This can be a part of the slideshow or gaming.
  • to use multiple cameras (ie. different angles).
  • To add overlays or chat boxes or images.
  • Mixing audio from various sources (e.g. music).
  • To stream on multiple platforms at the same time (e.g. YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn ).


We have talked about how to utilize to make use of the StreamYard platform within our post on Zoom Alternatives. It's a great platform to do the above.


3. A platform for live streaming


The reasoning is quite simple. It's essential to have an online platform that can support streaming such as YouTube and Twitch.


Check it out ! Mighty allows you to stream live streams on your smartphone or Mighty application You can also get an app which you name and stream live from. It's also simple to earn money from, charge per stream or set up an account with streaming integrated.


Live streaming is a benefit to businesses


If you are a manager of a company, you must be aware of the advantages of live streaming. Although live streams might not look as perfect or polished like the promotional videos you put into them, but live streaming offers something different. It creates a feeling of connection between your viewers and you that feels a lot more authentic and genuine and can be a huge strength for your brand. In addition, live streaming gives you the an opportunity to be spontaneous and surprising (in the best possible way ).


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Here are a few other Live streaming advantages for businesses:


   

  • Event planners can organize events without the requirement to locate or even a space Live streaming lets businesses organize virtual meetings and discussion without having to gather everyone in the same place.
  • Make educational possibilities available Live streams can be a way of giving value in particular through educational aspect! Live streams are used by companies (especially those that are the form of webinars) to help customers understand their products and create the perception of their brand.
  • The audience you are able to live stream anywhere on the globe. watch live online through the Internet and a device. They are closer to you and helps them to get in touch with your company.
  • Profit from events and ticket sales: Companies could design premium digital products such as live streaming to bring in revenue, as well as selling tickets as well as gating the event.


It is not advisable to use the live stream you have created as a way to make cash. Offer your customers something valuable and relevant that can motivate and inspire the audience, give them an identity and make them feel valued. Live stream is your sole way to make live streaming working for your company.


We're a big fan of live streaming, which is the reason we've included live streaming features to every one of our plans.


     Get started with your free trial


Live streaming examples


There are many live streams that have been broadcast in the past. This includes:


   

  • Michael Jackson's funeral was one of the live stream streams that were seen by the highest number of viewers during the time (2009).
  • In 2012, NASA live streamed the Mars Curiosity landing. It is possible to view NASA live streamings of space.
  • The year 2014 was the year that gamers on Twitch engaged in Pokemon and also receiving commands via chat. There were believed at 1.16 million players and 55 million watched.


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They're awesome! Live streaming is a great way to connect people. We even have our own live stream People Magic Summit, with many of the most powerful community people and creators (this event featured guests including Marie Forleo, Nathan Barry and Amanda Goetz). It is possible to relive sessions on this site!


Below are a few more examples of what live streams could look like.


   

  • The Mighty Network host announces a each week live stream on Mondays.
  • Performers live stream via IGTV as well as TikTok and performs a mini-concert to the viewers.
  • Gamer is someone who is a player of Roblox as well as Fortnight and broadcasts to viewers.
  • The school offers an online course and is offered by live streaming.
  • The thought-leader speaks with one person on LinkedIn live via the web about the coming book launch.


It's now accessible to look up: 11 of the best community engagement strategies



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