OTT Services and the Rise of Free Streaming
These days, OTT services are receiving a lot of love from users.
Since the COVID-19 outbreak, staying at home has increased, boosting the need for OTT services.
OTT refers to services that deliver various types of content through the internet.
Netflix, Watcha, and TVING are 대표 examples.
Unlike traditional cable TV, users can choose what they want to watch at any time.
Multiple reasons here explain the rapid growth of OTT services.
First, users can access many genres in one place, giving them more options.
Movies, dramas, and entertainment shows are easy to choose based on personal taste.
In addition, OTT is cheaper than conventional subscription TV.
Being able to stream anywhere using mobile devices is also attractive.
As OTT prices continue to rise, users are becoming more cost-conscious.
As a result, attention toward free services is increasing.
Ad-supported free streaming allows users to enjoy content without paying.
This is especially attractive to users who care about budget.
FAST services are becoming popular as ad-supported alternatives.
For example, KT launched a FAST service called “Gi Live,” drawing public interest.
FAST is expected to become a new revenue model while the paid TV market stagnates.
Free streaming’s strongest point is that users don’t need to pay.
It allows access to many contents, increasing selection options.
On the downside, ads interrupt viewing experiences.
Also, content quality may be lower than paid OTT services.
OTT and free platforms are expected to grow further.
Ad-based free models may become even more popular among users.
Being able to watch without cost is highly appealing.
I believe harmony between paid and free services is essential.
Blending both models offers better choices to viewers.
Upcoming changes in OTT and free streaming are highly anticipated.