OTT platforms change not only internet-based media consumption but also influence cinemas and theaters. There are crucial questions many think about. For example, whether a cinema is becoming obsolete and people stop going there, or they will remain one of our ways to spend free time. Will OTT video streaming services replace cinema? And why is that possible?
Let’s observe the benefits of OTT platforms and cinemas and conclude.
What are the benefits of OTT platforms and cinemas?
#1 All businesses can monetize their content with OTT platforms.
Cinemas are only for the entertainment industry. A person will scarcely go there to watch a video with body training exercises, while various industries can adopt an OTT platform. Moreover, they will be able to monetize their videos.
OTT monetization is another factor that differentiates OTT platforms from cinemas. Businesses can earn money with different monetization models: advertising, transactions, and subscriptions. They can choose whatever monetization model brings the most revenue.
#2 OTT platforms offer viewers a more flexible experience.
Several factors influence the experience people to get:
- OTT platforms allow viewers to watch a video anytime. Cinemas can be closed, as happened during the pandemic. They can stop working because a building was flooded or for other reasons. OTT platform requires an internet connection and a compatible device. Then, a user can watch a video whenever they want.
- OTT platforms allow accessing videos on different devices: smartphones, iPhones, tablets, laptops, and Smart TVs. Of course, they cannot replace a huge screen at the cinema. But they allow users to access videos anytime and anywhere they are up for it.
- OTT platforms offer rewind and video-on-demand features. Viewers can watch videos how they want. They can rewind scenes, and they can access videos on-demand. Cinemas don’t allow rewind, and they have a schedule. If you are late for a movie, you cannot rewatch what you have missed. You can only wonder what has happened on the screen.
- Binge-watching is in high demand. People like selecting one video and watching the whole season in one evening. They can decide when to stop viewing, and that is very convenient. Cinemas usually don’t offer that experience.
- People go to the cinema because of its atmosphere. It is a special experience to watch a new movie on a big screen. Moreover, the cinema can offer 3D movies that let people feel more engaged.
- When using an OTT platform, you avoid garbage on the floor and loud people who disturb the viewing process in the cinema.
#3 The OTT platform and cinema offer different prices.
If an OTT platform is subscription-based, the cost of a monthly subscription can be the same as one ticket to the cinema. Moreover, an OTT service offers much more content than cinema programming.
Price matters for many people. That’s why it can be a deciding factor when thinking of going to a cinema or watching a series at home.
Will OTT platforms replace movie theaters?
OTT platforms and movie theaters offer different experiences. That’s why they will probably co-exist together.
Many people go to the cinema to get an experience that creates memories. There is little memory in staying at home while going to the cinema can help a person to unwind and leave a familiar environment.
But OTT platforms are always there when viewers want. If a way to a cinema can take some time, OTT service is there on your device. You enter a website and enjoy the videos.
Conclusion
OTT video streaming services and movie theaters offer different experiences. That’s why they will likely operate together and meet different needs.
If you want to obtain an OTT solution to create your video streaming platform, we recommend Setplex. They will answer your questions and help launch.
