How many of you have heard the term OTT platforms? How do you choose the Best OTT Platforms in India for viewing content? We know that most of you are familiar with the term. Here’s a short brushing up for anyone not so well versed with this name. What is the OTT full form? OTT stands for over-the-top platform. This method of media transmission makes use of the internet instead of satellites or cable television.

With lockdowns announced and being extended, Indian viewers are investing huge amounts in consuming entertainment. With family members couped up at home, they are looking for means of keeping engaged, while maintaining a positive attitude. This is where the significance of OTT platforms comes to play.

Choosing the best OTT platform

What does a consumer look for while selecting an OTT platform? What should users consider before finalising a service provider? Who are the main service providers in the country? What are the reviews on these providers? Lots of questions arise when you have to make a decision. Let’s sort all those queries one by one today.

Basic requirements needed

Starting at the very bottom of the list, you need to have a stable internet connection as well as a compatible device to watch the content. This could be a mobile phone, tablet, laptop or even a smart TV. Whichever the device, it should have all the specifications to support internet streaming.

Features to look for in OTT platforms

Before choosing the service provider, you need to be aware of certain features that are common to all OTT providers. The more information you get on these points, the better decisions you can make. The various features you need to pay attention to while selecting an OTT platform include:-

• Quality of content delivery
• Live streaming features
• VOD hosting capabilities
• Reliable security tools
• Video API (The program access to video functionality)

• Abbreviations
• VOD– Video on demand
• CDN– Content Delivery Network
• HD-High Definition

Why you should subscribe

Subscribing to OTT apps enables users to:

• Manage videos and select preferences
• View and record the live stream programmes in HD
• Avail video subscription bundles
• Customize your online broadcasting player

The new mantra for Indian telecom subscribers

Do you know what the new mantra for Indian viewers is? Bundled telecom services with OTT packages. This combination is an instant winner, especially during the pandemic lockdowns in place. Indian users can now save money by availing both telecom and OTT services from a single source. Research from Amdocs and Ovum have brought forward certain findings.

• Out of the total respondents, 44% agreed that they spent more on mobile plans because they were getting bundled OTT services.
• 50% of respondents are happy to take an OTT bundle if their telecom service provider gives good discounts.
• 56% of viewers have subscribed to more than 1 platform
• 47% of respondents will not switch their telecom service provider, no matter what other offer is available.
• 30% of respondents are ready to change their service provider if they get better packages

The best OTT platforms in India

These are the topmost OTT providers available in India

1. Disney+ Hotstar
2. Netflix
3. Amazon Prime Video
4. Zee5
5. Sony Liv
6. Voot
7. AltBalaji
8. JioCinema

Major mobile service providers and their free OTT bundles

For those of you ready to take up bundled services, here is a heads up. You will get an idea of who gives you the best bundle packages. We have included the top 10 OTT platforms in India along with some other significant service providers.

Languages broadcasted by various OTT platforms

Another factor you need to check is which language the content is presented by various OTT providers. While some audiences prefer English channels, others may prefer regional languages. You will get an idea from the table below.

432 million subscribers use the internet in India

Comparison between Disney Plus Hotstar vs Amazon Prime vs Netflix

A quick look at the features for the major OTT service providers.

• Did you know
• OTT Messaging includes WhatsApp, the Facebook messenger
• OTT Voice Calling includes Skype, WhatsApp

Summary

The Indian OTT industry is seeing a rapid growth rate of 35% from year to year in subscription rates. It is expected that by 2022, the projected revenue from OTT video in India is going to be Rs. 5595 crore. This shows that we can all expect more exciting channels and bundle packages from the OTT Platforms in India. We shall bring you more information after our research. Stay tuned till then.