What exactly is live streaming? (Definition & Examples) |

The live streaming (or livestreaming) is now so popular that a third of all web viewers stream live every week. You can watch and stream live across a variety of platforms and devices, and it is more simple than ever to start.

In this post, we'll introduce you to the essential information you must be aware of about live stream.

• This article will discuss live streaming in detail (including an explanation of the technical aspects).
  
• Live streaming statistics and other landmarks.
  
• Discussion will concentrate on advantages and practical instances that live stream is a viable option.
  
• and we'll explain the steps you'll need to create your personal streaming live.
  

What exactly is live streaming?

Quick live streaming definition

Live streaming refers to the act of broadcasting an audience on live video in real time. In the past, that it was only available to the media companies that had the capability to stream live video to their viewers. In recent times the technology to stream live video has been exploding on the web as more people are streaming and enjoying that live experience at home and without the expense of a TV studio.

What exactly is live streaming... technical

Coding
    Technically, your camera outputs digital raw images. They are however too huge to stream properly. Thus, using an encoder (software or hardware) minimizes the video's size in real-time to codecs (ie. h.264). It is the result that the size of the file gets smaller enough to stream, and it also makes the format standard to ensure that every device will have the ability to read it.

Compression
    The video is split into what are called I-frames and P-frames as well as B-frames. I-frames are similar to a traditional JPEG image. They contain an complete image frame that includes all specifics.

B-frames and P-frames work slightly differently. They simply capture the part of the video which change by tracking motion vectors. This results in a smaller file, more compressible, and also more reliable for replay. As an example, in the instance of the case of a YouTube video that features a speaker in a background that isn't changing most of the background pixels aren't changed.

• P-frames (Predictive frames) can only encode the movement and the changes to the body of the body and speaker motions by looking back at previous frames.
  
• B-frames are also efficient, because they have the ability to refer to previous and subsequent frames, allowing for an entire image.
  

Internet speed
    Live streaming requires an ongoing flow of data. This is referred to as bit rate. It is the amount of data that your device capable of being able to stream in a second.

• HD 720 (HD) video requires 4 to 4.5 speeds
  
• 1080p requires at least 4-6 speed
  
• 4k requires 15-25 Mbps
  

If you're doing live streaming, the upload speed needs to keep up with the amount of data transmitted by the stream.

The viewers do not require the same speed. Video players decrease quality when connections are slow, or buffer (downloading approximately 2-30 seconds prior to the start of each session) to make the stream smooth. Additionally, we utilize Content Delivery Networks (CDNs)--this copies your files in real-time to servers that are closer to the player, because they require information to be transferred over larger distances.

Latency

It is possible that the video is not actually live. It is possible that there's a few seconds delay. We call this as latency.

Statisticians streaming live Statisticians streaming live

• 30% of Internet users can watch a live stream every week.
  
• The most often live streamed content is live breaking stories (34 percent) as well as live sports (29 percent).
  
• 91.7 The majority of internet users globally view live streaming all through the month.
  
• 52 percent of TikTok users want to watch live-streamed content.
  
• Smart TVs can be the most favored place for live streams (35.3 percent of all streaming content).
  
• 28 Most live streamed online video streamed live online are streamed live.
  
• The most long live streaming in history was over 624 hours. The stream was provided through Zhejiang Luyuan Electric Vehicle Co., Ltd. in China.
  
• The record for live streaming with the most people is set by Spanish Ibai streamer with 3.44 million viewers watching Twitch through the channel La Velada del Ano (3).
  

Live streaming is the initial step in making it possible (Timeline)

The list isn't exhaustive However, we've compiled a short overview of the technological advances which allow live streaming.

The 1990s witnessed the development of technologies that enabled "packets" of media to be streamed and rendered before the complete download.
    1993-93 - The MPEG-1 Standard for compression was published that allows for practical streaming of videos
    1995 - Starlight, a company Starlight created the first streaming video system that relied on satellites.
     1995- First internet radio: Radio HK.
    1995 In 1995, RealPlayer debuts, and becomes the first major streaming media player. Later, the program is added to the list of options for Windows 98 installation.
    1996 - Real-time Transport Protocol was developed in 1996, which creates an infrastructure to transmit audio and video across networks.
    1998- Starlight introduced the very first Web Conferencing products.
    1999 - The Victoria's Secret fashion show, which was a huge success, is the first major live stream show, which has the possibility of 1.5 million viewers.
    2002 2002 Flash Player adds video capabilities that make embedding video practical.
    2007 - The launch of Justin.tv (later changed to Twitch), which included Justin Kan who was the cameraman on call 24/7. It would eventually grow to numerous channels that would allow the public to stream.
    2009 - Both Ustream and Live stream were launched
    2011 2012 YouTube has introduced live streaming on its platforms. It was introduced in 2005 (fun information: the initial video was entitled "Me at the Zoo"). Facebook began live streaming in 2015, Periscope in 2015, and Instagram in 2016.

Live streaming benefits

Live Streaming is a method to deliver energy.

• Super interactive  Viewers are not able to only view in real-time. but also enjoy the capacity to communicate about their experiences, ask questions as as give feedback in various methods.
  
• Completely unfinished, excluding edited videos, where the content creator could feel obliged to make improvements it, live streaming isn't able to do this (at least not yet). Therefore, live streams are organic, and more engaging.
  
• The time is less consuming: While there may some preparation and set-up, however live streaming typically requires more work-free than, working hard on creating an edited video, which could need editing, scripting, motion-staging, etc.
  
• Lower production costs It's usually lower cost to start and to launch.
  
• The repurposing  is that you can cut and alter the live stream into various formats and uses after the fact, as well as making a recording version of the stream or video.
  
• It's a sense of urgency. Live streaming feels a little more important. If someone posts a recording following the event, viewing live makes you feel special and helps increase uptake.
  

How do you live stream

This video provides a good overview of this video, particularly if you're beginning your journey using live streaming!

However, we've also provided an overview of live streaming options available to producers. .

To live stream, you need:

1. AV source

One of the best things about live streaming is that there's no requirement for extravagant technology. The latest smartphones come with all the essential features required to manage live streaming.

Below are some possible videos to consider:

• Smartphone video: Most phones are able to create HD video. The latest models can capture in 4K. Be aware that the phone's front and back camera could have different specifications. Both of them are most likely ideal for a live stream. The easiest method is to stream direct from your phone.
  
• Webcam: Some streamers on computers choose to utilize or a built-in webcam on their computers or using the external Webcam. This is typically used for live streaming that is done using laptops or computers.
  
• Professional cameras: The most seasoned streamers often utilize professional cameras, such as DSLRs that stream live. They can be connected to your phone or laptop and will send higher quality video, as well as giving you the option of choosing the lens that best match your preferences and experience.
  

Also, you'll need a sound system! These are some suggestions:

• The built-in microphone on your computer or phone (not suggested): Your phone or computer's microphone is way too far from your mouth when streaming and are often not high-quality sound recorders. Better to select from the options given below.
  
• Headphones: Bluetooth or wired headphones place the microphone near your mouth, improving the quality of your audio and decreasing background disturbance. Any headset is usually more effective than using the microphone built into your device.
  
• Lapel microphone: A lapel microphone clips onto your collar or shirt and captures sounds that are close to your mouth allowing the sound more high-quality. It can be wired and wireless and some high-end microphones have features such as noise canceling.
  
• Shotgun microphone The shotgun microphone sits located a few feet away from your face (often is attached to the uppermost part of the camera) and tracks the direction you speak.
  
• Condenser microphone on the desktop A lot of streamers are today making use of desktop condenser microphones including Blue Yeti. Blue Yeti, which plugs directly into the computer and takes sound from your mouth.
  

Here's a few additional suggestions for live streaming for you to enhance your gameplay.

2. Software to stream (optional)

Streaming software does not have to be required since you are able to live stream directly to major platforms. But streaming software might be an ideal option for those who want:

• for sharing images on the computer screen. This could be part of the slideshow or gaming.
  
• to use multiple cameras (ie. different angles).
  
• To add overlays or images or chat box.
  
• Mixing in various audio sources (e.g. music).
  
• In order to stream on multiple platforms at the same time (e.g. YouTube + Facebook + LinkedIn ).
  

In this regard, we have discussed how we can use the StreamYard platform in our article about Zoom Alternatives. It's an excellent platform for the above.

3. A platform for live streaming

The reason is pretty simple. It is necessary to have a platform that supports streaming like YouTube or Twitch.

Test it ! Mighty permits you to stream streams live on your smartphone or Mighty application, or you can even get an app which you can name and live stream from. It's also easy to make money from, charge for individual streams or even set up an account with streaming built in.

Live streaming is a benefit for business

If you run a business, you must be aware of the advantages of live streaming. Live streams may not appear as perfect or polished like the promotional videos you put into them, but live streaming has something unique. Like we mentioned above it creates a feeling of connection between your audience and you that feels a lot more real and natural and is an enormous strength for your brand. Furthermore, live streaming has the an opportunity to be spontaneous and surprising (in the best way ).

Here are a few other live streaming benefits for firms:

• Event planners are able to host events without the need for any space or location: Live streams let businesses organize virtual meetings and discussion without the requirement of gathering everyone in the same place.
  
• Make educational possibilities available Live streams are a method of giving value in particular through educational aspect! Live streams can be used by businesses (especially those that are the form of webinars) to educate customers on their products and create brand awareness.
  
• Your audience is able to stream live anywhere across the globe is able to catch an online live stream using the Internet and a device. It brings them closer to you and makes it simpler for them to get in touch with the company.
  
• Profit from events and ticket sales: Business can design high-end digital goods such as live streaming to generate revenues, selling tickets and gating the event.
  

You shouldn't make use of your live stream as a way to make cash. Give your clients something of value and information which will motivate, inspire the audience, give them a sense of belonging, and engage them. Live streaming is the only method to get live streaming to work for your company.

We are a huge fan of live streaming so that's the reason we've included live streaming capabilities to all of our plans.

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Examples of live streaming

There are numerous historical live streams. They include:

• Michael Jackson's funeral service was one of the live streams watched by the most people that day (2009).
  
• In 2012, NASA live streamed the Mars Curiosity landing. There is still a way to see NASA live streams about space.
  
• In 2014 gamers on Twitch were playing Pokemon along with commands received from chat. There were believed at 1.16 million people played and 55 million watched.
  

They're awesome! Live streaming has the power to bring people together. Even we have our own live stream People Magic Summit, with some of the most influential community people and creators (this event featured guests such as Marie Forleo, Nathan Barry and Amanda Goetz). You can rewatch sessions here!

Here are more general examples of what live streams can look like

• The Mighty Network host announces a every week on live stream every Monday.
  
• Performers live stream via IGTV as well as TikTok and performs a mini-concert for viewers.
  
• Gamer is someone who plays Roblox and Fortnight and streams to viewers.
  
• The college provides an online class which is delivered via a live stream.
  
• The thought leader speaks to an individual on LinkedIn live online about the upcoming book launch.
  

It is now possible to read: 11 of the Best Community Engagement Strategies

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