The Impact of 5G on the Future of OTT Streaming

The Internet just keeps developing, and 5G is almost ubiquitous. How is this going to change the future of OTT streaming?

What 5G Is

5G technology is a substantial leap from its predecessor, 4G LTE. It offers speeds up to 100 times faster, and latency has been mostly reduced to mere milliseconds. In other words: this isn't just an incremental upgrade but a foundational shift.

5G uses higher frequency bands, massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antennas, and advanced beamforming techniques to create a network that's capable of supporting a vast array of devices simultaneously while still keeping performance high.

OTT Streaming In the Past

OTT services have already disrupted traditional media consumption patterns, capitalizing on increasing internet penetration and the proliferation of smart devices. However, OTT services have always faced limitations due to network constraints. Issues like buffering, inconsistent streaming quality, and limited interactivity are challenges that were always present with 4G and compromised the subscriber experience. 5G is set to do away with most of these issues.

OTT Under 5G

Better Streaming Quality

With 5G's high bandwidth, streaming services can now reliably offer high-definition content, including 4K and even 8K resolutions, without worrying about those buffering delays that plagued 4G networks. That means clearer images and richer, more immersive content, sure. But it also means streaming platforms can now seriously think about incorporating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).

Better Live-Streaming

5G's reduced latency means enhanced live-streaming capabilities. Real-time interaction is actually possible now, and that opens up avenues for interactive content where viewers can influence the outcomes of live shows or participate in real-time discussions. This level of engagement is challenging under 4G network conditions – if it's feasible at all – but with 5G, the possibilities just got endless.

Mobile OTT

While mobile streaming is already popular, data caps and inconsistent network performance have always limited its potential. With 5G, users can now enjoy high-quality streaming on-the-go without worrying about exceeding data limits or experiencing poor connectivity. This also means that content providers may need to start thinking about more mobile-optimized content.

Challenges for the Future

The deployment of 5G infrastructure requires, first of all, substantial investment from telecom companies and governments. Building the necessary network of small cells and antennas, especially in urban areas with high density, will be a costly endeavor, so there's likely to be uneven rollouts.

Data privacy and security concerns are also something to think about with 5G. The increased connectivity and data flow means more opportunities for cyber threats, so OTT providers will need to invest in security measures that are genuinely up to the task. Consider this, as well: market competition is likely to intensify. Telecom operators might try to leverage 5G to offer their own OTT services or they enter into exclusive partnerships with existing platforms.

​The best way to make the most of the future with 5G is to get a jump on it now, so your brand is top-of-mind when people think of streaming. Request a demo with us at Lightcast.com now to learn more about the possibilities.