Every time we turn on the TV to see the news or a new episode of our favorite show, we’re watching linear TV. But what does this term mean exactly? And isn’t cable TV dying anyway? Let’s take a closer look at the definition of linear television, how it works exactly, and what the future holds for it.
What Is Linear TV?
Simply put, linear TV is the traditional television medium with content delivered via satellite or cable. This stands in contrast to OTT, which is delivered over the Internet.
The term “linear” comes from the linear content delivery method. In other words, content streams according to a predetermined schedule, and all viewers watch it at the same time. So in a wider sense, linear television can refer to any content delivered in this way, regardless of the means of delivery. In this case, the definition of linear television can encompass some forms of OTT; namely FAST — free ad-supported TV. This stands in contrast to VOD streaming, where viewers can access content when they want.
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Follow UsHow Does Linear TV Work?
The content that streams through linear TV is usually prerecorded and hosted on a video server. Special software is responsible for scheduling the time slots for each piece of content and advertisements.
Streaming live events through linear television works a little differently. There is usually a control center that receives raw footage. There, the producing team edits the footage in almost real-time and sends it further to viewers via a cable network, satellite, or, in the case of FAST, the internet.
What’s the Difference Between Linear TV, OTT, CTV, and Cable TV?
These terms are often, mistakenly, used interchangeably. While all of them are, in some form, related to the delivery of video content, their characteristics and distribution methods differ. Delivery, device availability, content control, and monetization models are just some differences between these channels.
Linear TV vs. OTT
If we stick to the narrow definition of linear television being traditional satellite or cable TV, OTT is the exact opposite. OTT broadcasting bypasses traditional delivery channels and uses the broadband network to deliver on-demand video content.
However, if we consider linear TV to be any content streamed in a linear fashion, free ad-supported TV is an area where these terms overlap. Namely, FAST is an OTT content delivery method with linear content scheduling delivered via the Internet. To put it simply, OTT can be linear, but it doesn’t have to be.
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Linear TV vs. CTV
Although they both contain TV in their names, linear television and connected TV (CTV) denote different things. While linear television explains how content is delivered, CTV refers to the device the content is delivered.
Namely, CTV is any TV that is connected to the internet. This can be a smart television set or a TV connected to a streaming stick, box, or gaming console. CTV can be used to stream linear television content.
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Linear TV vs. Cable TV
As we have already mentioned, the narrow definition of linear television encompasses traditional broadcasting formats such as cable TV and satellite TV. We could say that linear television is the delivery method used by cable TV to broadcast content.
Pros and Cons of Launching a Linear TV Service
Launching an Internet-based linear television service has multiple benefits and drawbacks for publishers. These are the following.
Pros
- Global Reach — Due to rapid growth in the number of OTT users, with online TV services, publishers can potentially reach a global audience. In addition, a large portion of the older generation prefers traditional TV exactly because of the linear TV service model. So, by combining OTT with linear content delivery, you’ll be making the perfect blend of old and new.
- Flexibility — Users can access your content on multiple devices such as mobile, tablets, TVs, and computers, making online delivery much more convenient for viewers than traditional.
- Analytics — Online platforms give detailed analytics on your service performance. Publishers can utilize these platforms to gather insights into user behavior, preferences, and engagement. This data can help publishers tailor their monetization efforts to match the audience’s interest — serve ads relevant to the audience.
- Interactive Features — With online linear TV services, you can integrate interactive features like live chat, social media integration, and real-time polls, enhancing viewer engagement and fostering an online community.
- Lower Costs — Traditional TV services involve hefty distribution costs, such as cable and satellite infrastructure.
- Multiple Monetization Options — Along with the standard subscription-based revenue model, online linear TV services can leverage advertising and pay-per-view monetization options, increasing revenue streams for publishers.
- Content Control — You can update and modify online content more easily and respond to viewer demands quickly.
Cons
- Complex Infrastructure — Creating an online streaming service requires a robust and scalable infrastructure, including CDNs and servers, which can be expensive to maintain.
- Technical Challenges — Online streaming is subject to technical challenges like buffering, latency, and connection issues, which can affect the viewing experience and lead to viewer frustration. However, publishers can avoid these issues by employing a quality video player that won’t impact website performance.
- Content Rights — Securing licensing and rights can be complex and costly, especially when dealing with exclusive or premium content.
- Stiff Competition — More and more streaming services are appearing, with many already established dominating the market.
- Bandwidth — Both for viewers and content providers, internet bandwidth limitations can impact video quality and the overall viewing experience.
- Too Restrictive — New generations who grew up on the Internet are used to platforms such as Netflix, HBO, and similar which allow them to access the content they want whenever they want. So, linear delivery might be too restrictive for these online users.
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For publishers interested in launching their own OTT service, TargetVideo offers custom OTT solutions (Android, iOS, Tizen, etc.). Leverage our superior HTML5 video player and deliver content to audiences worldwide. Monetize your content with our Premium Demand. Join TargetVideo and start earning today!
FAQ
1. What is linear TV?
Linear TV can refer to the traditional method of content delivery through satellite or cable. In a wider sense, it refers to any content streamed linearly (at a scheduled time).
2. What is the difference between non-linear and linear TV?
Linear TV delivers content at a scheduled time, while non-linear TV removes this limitation. Viewers can decide when and what to watch.
3. Is Netflix linear or non-linear TV?
Netflix and similar platforms such as Hulu and HBO Max are non-linear TV services, since viewers can choose what to watch and when.
