Streaming services, which allow users to watch movies and TV shows on demand, have become incredibly popular in recent years. They come in different types, from music and live streaming to analog or online cinemas. Streaming platforms now offer a vast array of content, making them increasingly popular and profitable. As a result, streaming services have become increasingly popular and profitable. One of the clearest examples of a successful streaming service is Netflix, and today, we will discuss its technical components and business path.
How Netflix streaming works
Although streaming services may appear similar, they each operate differently. Now, let’s dive into the technical details of how Netflix works.
The streaming platform uses a CDN (content delivery network). Content data is stored on servers located around the world. Thanks to this, the time for the user to load data is reduced as much as possible.
The company’s service operates on a technological principle called adaptive streaming. It can be described as follows. When a user selects content to watch, Netflix sends a small amount of data to the user’s device to check internet speed and adjust video quality accordingly. Then, using the information received, the service dynamically changes the video quality so as not to cause additional downloads.
Netflix also uses several encoding techniques to optimize the video data for streaming. This includes codecs such as H.264 and VP9, which transform the above data. In addition, Netflix uses per-title encoding, which analyzes each video and optimizes the encoding settings based on its specific characteristics, resulting in a better streaming experience for users.
Overall, Netflix streaming is a complex, highly sophisticated system that utilizes cutting-edge technologies to deliver high-quality video content to users worldwide. But how do you develop your streaming platform? Let’s deal with this further.
How to create an app like Netflix
Developing your streaming service is a long and expensive process. This is true not only for Netflix-like platforms but also for all others. If you are wondering how to create a live-streaming website or an app like Spotify, then the steps below apply to them as well. Let’s go through each.
Step 1. Define Your Niche
Before starting development, think about the specifics of your streaming platform. Consider the type of content and features that will appeal to your potential audience. Analyze your potential audience. Based on the analytics results, consider the most effective monetization methods.
Step 2. Define the content for your platform
Users choose a streaming service based on the content presented on it. Choose a specific niche or genre for your content rather than trying to cover everything. Then, decide exactly what you need for your platform and potential audience.
Step 3. Get Licensed Content
All popular streaming platforms like Netflix offer users unique content that the latter can watch exclusively on their service. There are two options for licensing:
- Negotiate directly with the copyright holder
- Negotiate with a distributor
Both options are relevant if you create something other than your content, as the repeatedly mentioned Netflix does.
Step 4. Work out your unique style
A recognizable visual is already half the battle. If users like the design of your streaming platform and remember it, then there is a great chance to acquire a permanent audience. When choosing a streaming service, viewers pay attention to content and the comfort of being on the site. You have two choices:
- Inherit the style of Netflix
- Develop your unique design with the help of a UI/UX designer
Naturally, it is better to be unique because you will avoid comparisons with a competitor that will not be in your favor (at least at first).
Step 5. Develop a mobile app
Your service will gain additional popularity through a mobile application. In general, applications for devices with mobile architecture are a must-have for any company today. Moreover, considering that most of humanity now uses smartphones to retain the audience, we also recommend creating a convenient and straightforward application for them.
Step 6. Add monetization
We must remember to make money; after all, you need to develop a service not out of good intentions. Based on the intended audience, choose the most effective monetization model. For streaming platforms, the most popular ways to make money are as follows:
- Paid subscriptions
- Show ads as part of a free or essential subscription
- Purchasing Content
But remember, you should be as careful as possible with monetization. If you go too far with the number of subscriptions or advertising, your target audience may leave.
And now, it’s time to discuss what needs to be developed to implement all the steps described above.
MVP for streaming services
Features of your streaming service can be divided into mandatory and secondary. Let’s go over both briefly.
MVP
Mandatory features with which your service can be done. These include:
- Content library. One of the first elements to be developed should be a library. Content must be stored, and a system like Netflix should be designed to allow viewers to download it immediately.
- User registration. With mandatory registration, it is possible to develop a streaming service. The user can access the content only by being registered. Also, all data, including purchases and subscriptions, will be entered into a personal account.
- Security. Considering that you will provide paid content, you should develop a reliable security system.
- Search. Basic search functionality should be included, allowing users to find the content they are interested in quickly.
- Monetization. We discussed examples of monetization above. You should have at least one of the options.
Advanced
This type of feature is optional but highly desirable for integration into the service.
- Content recommendation algorithm. Offer users relevant content based on their browsing history on your service. This will make it easier to find exciting things.
- Live streaming video. Most viewers of sites such as YouTube often watch live broadcasts. Sometimes, streamers gather millions of people’s lives.
- Social sign-in. Simplifying registration will ensure more user flow to your platform.
- Reviews and ratings. Today, it is not customary to hide content ratings; users often look at material ratings, which are usually accurate.
Following the plan and implementing the features, you can develop your application to compete with giants like Netflix or Disney+. But be careful when choosing developers; look not only at the price tags but also the company’s reputation, reviews, and portfolio. Trust the experts, and everything will work out!
