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The Rise of Mobile TV: Why Video Creators Need Their Own Mobile Apps

Did you know that over 70% of all video content is now consumed on mobile devices? People no longer rely on traditional television; they prefer to watch their favorite shows, live streams, and exclusive content on the go.

For content creators, broadcasters, and video-based businesses, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Without a dedicated mobile TV app, you risk losing viewers to competitors who provide a seamless, mobile-friendly experience.

So, the big question is: Is your channel ready for the mobile TV revolution?

Mobile Streaming for TV Networks: Is It Worth the Investment?

According to this article, there are over 6.3 billion smartphone users across the world, it’s no surprise that the mobile app industry is thriving.

Mobile TV is revolutionizing the entertainment industry, making content more accessible than ever before. But is investing in a high-quality mobile TV app essential for the growth of your TV network?

Many TV channel owners ask this question, and at TvStartup, we specialize in helping you understand the impact of mobile streaming.

In this article, we’ll explore whether a mobile TV app is a must-have for your TV network and highlight the key benefits of launching one. We’ll also discuss the future of mobile TV consumption and how it can shape your success in the industry. Let’s dive in.

The Shift to Mobile TV: What's Driving the Trend?

1. The Mobile-First Generation

Based on the research, over 70% of the world’s total population now uses a mobile phone. People want on-the-go entertainment, and traditional TV just doesn’t cut it anymore.

2. Increase in Streaming Platforms

Platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube have trained audiences to expect instant access to content anytime, anywhere. This has set the standard for mobile TV consumption.

3. 5G & Faster Internet Speeds

The rollout of 5G and improved mobile networks has made high-quality streaming seamless. No buffering, no delays—just instant access to videos.

4. Smartphone Penetration is at an All-Time High

With more people using smartphones than ever before, launching a mobile TV app ensures your content reaches a wider audience.

Challenges for Content Creators

The need for the provision of mobile phone based entertainment is on the rise, but many creators of videos come across the following obstacles:

Limited Reach:
The audience switches mostly to mobile streaming but many creators rely only on YouTube, Facebook, and the like.

Monetization Struggles:
Platforms can demonetize your content, limit your revenue potential, or take a large cut of your earnings.

Lack of Control:
Creators have no access to the algorithm changes, ad placements, or content policies that may affect their visibility and profits.

Not only do you lose engagement by not making the shift to this mobile TV, but you are also leaving money on the table.

Why Your Channel Needs a Mobile TV App

Reach More Viewers Anytime, Anywhere

With a mobile TV app, your content is available 24/7 on iOS and Android, allowing audiences to watch at their convenience—without distractions from competitors.

By having a dedicated mobile TV app, you’re not relying on third-party platforms like YouTube or Facebook. You own the space where your audience watches your content.

Unlock Multiple Revenue Streams

Instead of relying on ad revenue from third-party platforms, you can directly monetize your content through:

✅ Subscriptions (SVOD) – Offer exclusive content for paying members.

✅ Pay-Per-View (TVOD) – Charge for premium videos, live streams, or events.

✅ Ad-Supported (AVOD) – Run ads on your own terms and keep 100% of the profits.

Launch for premium content

Full Control Over Branding & User Experience

No more competing for attention on crowded platforms. With a branded mobile app, you control:

✅Your app’s design and branding

✅ Content recommendations and user experience

✅ How and when your audience engages with your videos.

Unlike third-party platforms that can demonetize or remove your content, having your own app gives you full control over branding, user experience, and content policies.

Better Engagement & Viewer Retention

Engagement and viewer retention are crucial for a channel’s success, and a mobile TV app enhances both by providing convenience and accessibility, allowing viewers to watch content anytime, anywhere.

Having your own app puts you in the game and gives your audience a professional, binge-worthy experience.

Major networks and streaming services already have mobile apps—why shouldn’t you?

A mobile TV app helps level the playing field, giving your content the platform it deserves.

How to Launch Your Mobile TV App

If you’re ready to take the next step, TvStartup.com makes it easy to build and launch your own mobile TV app without the technical hassle.

Their platform supports iOS, Android, Roku, Fire TV, and more, allowing you to stream your content seamlessly across multiple devices.

Big streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu already use mobile apps to dominate the industry. If you don’t have an app, you’re losing potential subscribers and ad revenue. Don’t get left behind.

Final Thoughts

Want to launch your own mobile TV app without prior experience? TvStartup offers expert guidance, innovative CMS solutions, and 24/7 support to help you build and scale your TV network.

At TvStartup, we’ve helped thousands of TV networks succeed with cutting-edge mobile TV app development. Ready to take your TV channel to the next level?

Mary

5 Reasons Why Roku is the Best Platform to Start a TV Channel On

In A Crowded Smart TV Market, A Clear Winner Emerges

If you are a video creator or organization looking to start your own TV channel on Smart TV platforms, the choices can be overwhelming.

There are so many different devices and platforms to choose from, including launching your own channel on Roku, Apple TV, Samsung TV, Amazon Firestick, Android TV and so many more…

Roku, a TV platform which first gained traction in 2008 as a streaming device built for Netflix, has experienced rapid growth, unlike any other platform in the Smart TV market.

Roku has captured a leading North American market share, and become the number one streaming device used in 90+ million US households.

For video creators, organizations and other content creators alike, this offers several serious advantages to publishing your videos on the Roku Platform.

The largest TV viewer audience, coupled with multiple ways to make money with your video content and the ease of distribution offers some unparalleled opportunities for video creators to grow their followings and engage with viewers directly in their living rooms.

This is where content creators who wish to get heard and want to tag their roots across different parts of the globe prefer the Roku platform.

Whether you are a rookie in the streaming world or an established content creator, you should consider launching a Roku channel if you are interested in broadening your brand.

This blog post will keep you abreast of the five advantages of Roku, the best open platform for running your TV network, and how it can assist you to reach out to the world-wide market with your brand.

1. Massive Audience Reach on Roku

One of the biggest advantages of launching a Roku channel is the huge audience you can reach.

With over 90 million households in the United States alone (as of 2025), and availability in 19 other countries, Roku is the #1 streaming platform for both creators and viewers.

Unlike traditional cable TV, where content is restricted to certain regions, Roku allows video creators to have developers launch their own channels, self-host them, and broadcast their content globally — directly to their audience on their TV sets.

With the ‘cord cutting’ trend continuing to grow, with as much as 80 million more American’s projected to ‘cut the cord’ on cable and satellite TV by 2026, Roku, alongside other TV platforms whose doors are open for content creators to independently launch their own channels and publish their content, is a goldmine for creators trying to stand out.

When compared with an ever more saturated market on YouTube and Social Media with millions of creators competing against the algorithms… the choice becomes even more clear.

Whether you’re producing short films, documentaries, live shows, or on-demand videos, your content can reach millions of viewers directly, inside your own branded streaming apps, that you own, and that can’t be demonetized by YouTube or lost in the feeds of social media.

Additionally, with Roku smart TVs becoming increasingly popular and replacing traditional forms of TV like cable and satellite.

By having your content available on the Roku channel list, you tap into an audience that’s actively looking for fresh and engaging content.

PRO TIP

Optimize your Roku channel name and channel description with relevant keywords to what Roku viewers might be searching for, like "Basketball", "Travel Vlog", and "Classic Movies" to improve the visibility of your channel in Roku’s search results.

2. Easy Setup & Affordable Launch Costs

Launching a TV network on cable requires expensive infrastructure, licenses, and approval processes. In contrast, setting up a Roku channel is straightforward and cost-effective.

Here’s how Roku makes it easy for video creators to launch their own streaming network:

User-Friendly Setup: Roku provides step-by-step guides to help you create your Roku channel without the need for advanced technical skills.

Low Development Costs: Unlike traditional TV networks that require expensive studio equipment, you can launch a Roku TV channel with minimal investment.

No Gatekeepers: You control the content, branding, and monetization—without interference from third parties.

Additionally, platforms like TvStartup offer end-to-end solutions that allow video creators to build, launch, and manage their Roku box channel with ease.

3. Multiple Monetization Opportunities

The major determinant of the success of a television network is the ability to attract not only the viewership but also the monetization part.

One way that platforms like Roku have enabled their users to make money from online videos is by making several options available:

💰 Advertising-Based Video on Demand (AVOD)

Get paid from ad impressions based on the number of commercials played on your Roku channel while viewers are watching.

Using ad insertion, including playing ads from your own direct-sold sponsors, alongside automatically inserted ads, will help to boost the overall income of the channel.

💳 Subscription-Based Video on Demand (SVOD)

Subscribers would be billed on a monthly or yearly basis for the exclusive TV shows and movies or other content you offer to watch. This can even be extended to sell courses, programs and other video content on a subscription basis, all inside your own TV app.

Well-suited for content creators who deal in premium video series, courses, or niche details.

🎟️ Pay-Per-View (TVOD)

Selling individual videos, movies, or live events.

Great especially for exclusive content such as concerts, documentaries, or interviews.

Through the use of these techniques, video content producers may receive money even without any effort while they succeed to make attractive publications to their audiences.

4. High Discoverability & Built-In Marketing Tools

Getting your TV network noticed is crucial, and Roku makes it easier for new creators to get discovered. Here’s how Roku helps boost your channel’s visibility:

Roku Channel Store: Your channel will appear in the Roku channel list, making it accessible to millions of users.

Featured & Trending Sections: Roku highlights new and popular channels, giving creators more exposure.

SEO-Friendly Search Functionality: By using the right keywords in your Roku channel name, description, and metadata, you can improve search rankings within the platform.

Additionally, you can run targeted ads on Roku TV to promote your channel to the right audience, driving more subscriptions and engagement.

5. Future-Proof Streaming Technology

The streaming industry is growing rapidly, and Roku remains at the forefront with cutting-edge technology. Video creators benefit from:

4K & HDR Streaming: Deliver high-quality video content that stands out.

Cross-Device Compatibility: Your channel can be accessed on Roku smart TVs, Roku box devices, mobile apps, and web browsers.

Frequent Software Updates: Roku constantly improves its platform to enhance user experience and keep content relevant.

This means your TV network will always be on a platform that evolves with the latest streaming trends.

Roku vs. Other Streaming Platforms: How Does It Compare?

While Roku is a fantastic choice, how does it stack up against competitors like Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Android TV? Let’s compare:

Roku vs. Fire TV: Roku has a larger audience reach and a simpler setup, while Fire TV is more Amazon ecosystem-focused and has a slightly smaller audience of about 60 million active devices as of the last available estimates, in contrast to Roku’s 90+ million.

Roku vs. Apple TV: Roku offers more overall reach, and better organic traffic, while Apple TV is more exclusive to Apple fans.

Roku vs. Android TV: Roku has wider reach in the North American market and is better for beginners, while Android TV allows for more reach overseas to international audiences.

Best Practices for Growing Your Roku Channel Audience

To maximize your success on Roku, follow these growth strategies:

Optimize Metadata: Use relevant keywords in your channel title and description.

Engage with Your Audience: Encourage viewers to leave reviews and share your channel.

Leverage Social Media & YouTube: Promote your Roku content across multiple platforms to attract new viewers.

Case Studies: Successful Roku Channels

Learning from other successful Roku creators can provide valuable insights. Some top Roku channels include:

Cooking Networks: Channels like Tastemade have built massive followings.

Niche Sports Channels: SportsGrid thrives by targeting specific fanbases.

Faith-Based Streaming: Many religious organizations have found success on Roku.

Why Choose TvStartup to Launch Your Roku Channel?

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Starting your own Roku TV network may seem overwhelming, but TvStartup makes it easy.

Tvstartup provides an all-in-one solution for building a successful Roku channel.

Here’s why TvStartup is the best partner for launching your Roku network:

Custom Roku Channel Development: Fully branded channels tailored to your vision.

Monetization Integration: AVOD, SVOD, and TVOD solutions to help you generate revenue.

Multi-Platform Distribution: Expand beyond Roku and stream on Fire TV, Apple TV, and mobile apps.

Easy-to-Use Content Management System (CMS): Upload, organize, and schedule your content with ease.

With TvStartup, you don’t have to navigate the complexities of launching a Roku channel alone. We handle the technical side, so you can focus on creating great content and growing your audience.

Ready to launch your own TV network on Roku? Let TvStartup help you build, monetize, and scale your channel.

Mary

5 Great Content Niches Every Creator Needs to Know About

As a video creator, selecting the right content niche is crucial for building an audience and establishing your brand.

The digital world is full of competition, and knowing which content creator niche suits you best can make all the difference. This article will introduce five engaging content niches that can help you grow your channel and reach the right audience.

At a time when video makers follow a content niche that is suitable for their audience, the choice of proper content niche is a must for the target audience to recognize and acknowledge the brand.

Internet as a platform has many rivals, and the selection of the niche that suits the content creator best might make a big difference.

This article will introduce five engaging content niches that can help you grow your channel and reach the right audience.

Why These Niches Matter to You?

1. Educational and How-To Content

Educational content remains one of the most evergreen content creator niches. People are always looking for tutorials and guides to learn new skills, making this a great niche for long-term growth.

Why You’ll Love It:

Builds trust and credibility in your expertise
High search volume, leading to increased visibility
Various monetization options, including ad revenue and courses

Examples:

“How to Make Your Own Online TV Channel in 2025“
“How to Launch Your Roku TV App“
“DIY Home Improvement Hacks”

2. Personal Finance and Investing

With increasing financial awareness, audiences are eager to learn about budgeting, investing, and saving strategies. This content niche offers great engagement and monetization potential.

Why It’s Profitable:

High CPM (cost per thousand impressions) for finance-related content
Strong potential for affiliate partnerships with financial brands
Evergreen content that remains relevant over time

Why It Stands Out:

Finance-related content attracts high ad revenue
Viewers are motivated to take action, leading to strong conversions
Affiliate marketing opportunities with finance-related products

Examples:

“Best Budgeting Apps for 2025”
“How to Start Investing with $100”
“11 Ways to Monetize Your Video Content Online“

3. Health, Wellness, and Fitness

This booming industry attracts audiences looking for better financial, physical and mental well-being. From workout routines to mindfulness techniques, this content creator niche is a great way to build a loyal community.

Why It’s Engaging:

High audience retention as people follow long-term fitness journeys
Strong opportunities for sponsorships and product promotions
Expanding demand for home workouts and holistic wellness

Why It’s Profitable:

Expanding market due to increasing health awareness
Opportunities for brand partnerships with fitness and wellness companies
Multiple content formats, including tutorials, vlogs, and challenges

Examples:

“10-Minute Home Workout for Beginners”
“Best Foods for Weight Loss”
“How Fitness Coaches Can Create a Profitable Video Training App“

4. Gaming and Esports

Gaming continues to dominate digital platforms, with millions of active viewers watching gameplay, walkthroughs, and competitive esports coverage.

Why It’s Profitable:

Large, dedicated audience with high engagement
Streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube offer monetization options
Game developers frequently collaborate with content creators

Why Gamers Love It:

Global audience with high engagement
Recurring content opportunities with game updates and reviews
Monetization through brand deals, sponsorships, and merchandise

Examples:

“Top 10 Games to Play in 2025”
“How to Improve Your Aim in FPS Games”
“Best Streaming Setup for Gamers”

5. Travel and Adventure

For those who love exploring, travel vlogging is a highly visual and engaging content creator niche. The rise of digital nomadism makes travel content more relevant than ever.

Why It Captures Attention:

Visually appealing, leading to high engagement
Partnerships with travel brands, hotels, and airlines
Affiliate marketing opportunities with travel gear and services

Examples:

“Best Budget Travel Destinations for 2025”
“How to Travel Full-Time and Make Money”
“Essential Packing Tips for Solo Travelers”

Take the Next Step Toward Your Content Niche

Now that you’ve seen five powerful content niches, it’s time to take action. Choose a niche that aligns with your passion and audience demand.

Start creating high-quality content, optimize for search engines, and engage with your viewers to build a loyal following.

What’s Your Next Move?

Identify your preferred niche
Plan your content strategy
Start creating and publishing today!

Final Thoughts

Choosing a content niche that is fitting for a long time as a video creator is vital. The five niches mentioned above are the best ones that provide opportunities for growth, audience engagement, and monetization.

With TvStartup, you can easily get your own internet TV channel and make your content niche more engaging. The key to success is to select a niche that fits both your passion and the in-demand market which ensures a loyal following and encourages your work to be original.

Ready to elevate your video creation journey? Start exploring these niches today and let TvStartup help you turn your content into a thriving channel!

Mary

SVOD Industry: An Amazing Goldmine for Video Creators

Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) services have turned into a game changer these days, in the ever-evolving landscape of content consumption.

Nowadays, viewers tend to move away from traditional TV media towards digital platforms, which means that video creators have an enormous chance to enter the SVOD industry—a real Eldorado for both new and experienced content producers.

In doing so, we will have a closer look at how SVOD platforms can not only bring about positive financial outcomes but also improve video creators’ image and gain a wider audience for them.

What is SVOD?

SVOD stands for Subscription Video on Demand, a subscription-based model in which customers can pay a scheduled fee and stream as much as they want from the streaming library.

The best examples of SVOD platforms are Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. These streaming services serve their subscribers with a wide variety of movies, TV series, and exclusive content—absence of commercials is one of their best parts.

SVOD is the most suitable platform for video creators from various corners to get access to their audience and also measure the profitability. It is a way for them to get the money they need to keep their business growing.

The Growing Popularity of SVOD

The global shift from conventional TV to SVOD platforms is inevitable. A report from Statista says that the number of global SVOD subscribers is projected to be 1.75 billion by 2027. A substantially increasing number of individuals are shelling out their money on cable TV while getting on-board in the world of on-demand entertainment.

As a result, SVOD market share continues to proliferate at a rapid pace.

SVOD examples such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV become the models of the new era of on-demand content consumption, which results in video creators being the chief beneficiaries from the larger and more involved audiences.

Through the use of SVOD systems, content owners can leverage the high demand for this medium by distributing their material worldwide.

How Video Creators Benefit from SVOD?

1. Predictable Revenue Model

One of the biggest advantages of SVOD platforms lies in the subscription-based revenue model. Video creators can keep getting money by giving their subscribers premium content which brings them a steady, predictable income.

Instead of having to depend on advertising revenue, creators have the power to decide their income. SVOD platforms are known to offer creators a certain percentage of the subscription fee (and on the other hand, many creators also set up their own subscription model to pay).

2. Increased Exposure

SVODs are platforms that give creators the opportunity to reach millions of viewers from all over the world.

Distributing content via popular video-streaming platforms, creatives can nudge more people to follow their work and become part of those already engaged with the streaming services.

When they have more than enough content, they become so attractive that they attract subscribers to their channels. This wider reach can bring in more fans, collaborations, and marketing deals.

3. Creative Freedom and Control

While traditional TV networks and YouTube are commonly restricted by explicit content guidelines, SVOD platforms offer greater creative independence to the creators.

The creators don’t have to worry about following network standards or the production of content that caters to a mainstream audience.

Video creators can break new ground by using new genres, storytelling techniques, and niche topics that might not be profitable on other platforms.

4. Diverse Monetization Opportunities

The SVOD industry is multi-streamed where the revenue can come from different sources. Creators can earn subscription fees from subscribers and also sell extra paid content, merchandise or even organize member-only experiences.

Some creators even work with the already established SVOD platforms such as Roku, Amazon Prime, or Apple TV to get their content monetized in a better way.

Would you like to know more about ways to diversify your monetization strategy? Discover

How To Monetize Videos:11 Ways To Monetize Your Video Content Online

5. Sustainability for Independent Creators

In the past, a majority of independent creators had a hard time finding a stable income. Now SVOD has empowered the creators to cater to their customers directly by avoiding the middlemen.

Independent video creators can now make a profit on the basis of letting and remuneration instead of working with bigger companies by using platforms that drive content syndication and licensing to their benefit, the market and at the same time, keep 100% of the revenue from their content.

Getting Started with SVOD as a Video Creator

1.) Develop A Strong Content Strategy

In the SVOD industry, you can only succeed if you have a well-structured content strategy. Your audience’s characteristics, the niche you belong to, and your special abilities as a creator are some of the things that you should consider.

Whatever path you take, whether it is documentaries, comedy, drama, or educational content, you need to continuously and consistently produce high-quality, engaging content.

2). Find the Ideal Platform

Not every SVOD platform is as good as the next one. You have to determine which platforms are best for your content. The platform you choose matters a lot when it comes to gaining more visibility and increasing the possibilities of earning money.

Although large platforms like Roku, FireTV and Apple TV serve to expose one to large audiences, niche services better suit the aim to cater to specific interests and thereby build a tight-knit community of users who are passionate about the subject matter.

TvStartup gives you the opportunity to launch your own streaming channel across major platforms such as Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV without going through the complex technical setup process as TvStartup has got you covered.

Be it for the purpose of building your brand or reaching out to a wider range of audiences, TvStartup is the best way to get there in the competitive SVOD environment.

To find out more about finding the ideal platform, take a look at this article: “How to Pick the Right Platform for Internet TV Success”.

3). Advertise Your Content

Just producing content is not enough; it is also important that you market your video. Doing so you provide value to both the brands you promote and your fans.

These possible options can include social media platforms that are already popular with your target audience, namely Facebook, Podcasts, and more.

Possible methods could be the smart charging principle or the use of mass transit. The city council might research the topic and devise strategies according to the most recent findings.

4). Participate in Your Community

Community building is essential for you to be able to maintain your subscribers. If you agree with these assumptions, you should include user stories as part of your sprint planning. They could serve as acceptance criteria.

For example, you could use the following methods: face to face, and user stories. You could also consider polling with numbered responses.

You could reuse the same face to face, recording it on video and holding a real-time poll. Poll everywhere is a great tool for activating discussion with your students.

Future of SVOD for Video Creators

The SVOD business is becoming more of a video makers’ playing field, and it is an excellent opportunity for them to grow the audience, and secure a stable income and remain creative control. Due to the widespread growth of streaming services, it is now a logical thing to do to sign into a streaming platform for SVOD.

Providing creators with the capabilities to make the transition, platforms like TvStartup enable video creators to establish their own streaming channels. They help ensure the content is scarce and at the same time, creators maximize their earnings while doing what they love to do.

At the same time, TvStartup also offers a better user experience and new business models due to the new generation of technology.

Conclusion

To conclude, SVOD is the new area for video producers to explore allowing them to develop a customer base, find a steady source of income, and still have control over creativity.

What TvStartup and other similar platforms provide are the means for people to launch their own streaming services. Helping them to secure the necessary tools to ensure their future profitability and entertainment in addition to their other activities.

TvStartup makes it easier than ever to be a video creator in this booming SVOD market to thrive and become successful.

Mary

Top 4 Essentials for Successful Live TV Streaming: Here’s What You Need to Know

Live TV streaming has developed into a potent force that allows producers, companies, and entities to capture the attention of a huge audience all over the world.

Live streaming gives you an opportunity to carry out broadcasting in a matter of seconds, and interact with the viewers in an entertaining way. Yet, in order for live streaming to be a success, both the preparation process and the use of the right tools are important.

The following are the most important takeaways of which you would need to control to ensure that your live streaming event will go smoothly and will be a hit.

1. Reliable Internet Connection

The main element for live TV streaming to allow the viewers to watch without any interruptions and delays is a good and continuous connection to the world wide web.

A stable internet connection is non-negotiable for live streaming. Buffering and lag can ruin viewer experience, so ensuring high-speed connectivity is crucial.

Internet Requirements for Smooth Streaming:

Upload Speed: Be sure to have more than 5 Mbps if you need to have the HD stream and 4K will need at least 25 Mbps

Wired Connection: Go with an Ethernet cable as it can be more securely connected compared to wireless internet, this way you will get fewer disruptions.

Bandwidth Management: Ensure no other devices are using a lot of bandwidth at that time of your stream.

TvStartup makes it possible to have high-quality streaming that can be easily added to your internet TV platform. With the proper infrastructure, TvStartup makes it easy to provide a non-stop video flow, therefore, you can offer your audience a steady stream.

PRO TIP

Use speed test tools such as Speedtest by Ookla to perform a speed test before streaming live online.

2. Professional-Quality Equipment

Your live stream’s quality depends on the tools you use. Investing in professional-grade equipment will enhance your video and audio, creating a seamless experience for your viewers.

The right equipment can elevate your stream and keep viewers coming back for more. Here’s a checklist to get started:

Key Equipment for Live Streaming:.

Camera: Invest in a high-resolution camera for crisp visuals. Many creators opt for DSLRs or professional video cameras.

Microphone: Good audio is crucial. Use a high-quality microphone to capture clear and noise-free sound.

Lighting: Proper lighting enhances video quality. Softbox lights or ring lights can make a significant difference.

Streaming Software/Hardware: Platforms like TvStartup’s Live TV feature simplify the process by integrating high-quality streaming tools into your workflow.

TvStartup’s solution supports a wide range of devices and ensures compatibility with your professional equipment, so your live streams always look and sound their best.

PRO TIP

Practice with your equipment to familiarize yourself with settings and troubleshoot potential issues ahead of time.

3. Content Planning and Interaction Strategy

Content is king, and live TV streaming is no exception. Before you go live, create a detailed plan that ensures your broadcast resonates with your target audience. Here’s what to consider:

Know Your Audience: Understand who your viewers are and what content they’re seeking.

Prepare a Script: Outline key talking points to keep your stream focused and engaging.

Interactivity: Plan ways to interact with your audience, such as Q&A sessions, polls, or shoutouts. Interaction boosts viewer retention and makes your stream memorable.

Call-to-Action (CTA): End your stream with a compelling CTA. Whether it’s subscribing to your channel, signing up for a service, or visiting your website, make your next steps clear.

Real-time streaming does not only mean broadcasting; it involves engaging with the audience on the spot.

Best Practices for Engaging Live Streams:

Have a Clear Purpose: Carry out the content creation strategically and keep it exciting and organized throughout the session.

Involve the Audience: React to comments, address questions, and entertain the audience’s participation.

Add Visuals and Layouts: Include lower thirds, which may contain a call-to-action and the brand logo to bring out the professionalism in the material.

Advertise Your Live Broadcast: Utilize social media and email marketing to inform the audience about upcoming live streams.

TvStartup platform offers features that help you engage your audience effectively, from live chat capabilities to seamless integration with monetization tools. With TvStartup’s analytics dashboard, you can track viewer engagement and optimize your strategy for future broadcasts.

PRO TIP

Use analytics from previous streams to refine your content and understand what resonates most with your audience.

4. Monetization and Scalability

Live streaming is not just a medium for communication; it’s also a powerful revenue-generating tool. Monetizing your content ensures your efforts are sustainable. Here’s how:

Subscription Plans: Offer exclusive access to your streams through subscription models.

Advertising: Run ads during your live streams to generate income.

Pay-Per-View: Charge viewers for access to premium events or special content.

TvStartup specializes in providing monetization tools that empower creators to turn their passion into profit. With platforms like Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV, TvStartup allows you to reach a global audience while offering multiple monetization options.

Their platform is designed to scale as your audience grows, ensuring you can handle increasing demand without compromising quality.

Why Choose TvStartup for Your Live TV Streaming Needs?

TvStartup is a leading provider of internet TV solutions that empower creators and businesses to establish their own live streaming channels. Here’s what sets TvStartup apart:

All-in-One Platform: TvStartup simplifies the process of setting up, managing, and monetizing your internet TV channel.

Customizable Solutions: Build a platform that reflects your brand, with customizable layouts and features.

Global Reach: Stream on major platforms like Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Android TV.

User-Friendly Tools: No technical expertise is needed to start your live TV journey with TvStartup.

Dedicated Support: TvStartup offers expert support to ensure your live streams run smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Live TV streaming is a means for creators to build a loyal audience, share their message, and grow their revenue.

With TvStartup, we ensure that you have a platform that is up-to-date and user-friendly while providing tools for every stage of the process.

You can use TvStartup to introduce live streaming to your viewers or make your programs better in the future. They are designed to help you succeed with their simple distribution process.

Mary

Restreaming 101: How to Reach More Viewers and Grow Your Audience

In today’s dynamic world of digital media, the main goal of any content creator is an increased audience reach. With so many streaming services existing—YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and more—the restreaming option has been seen as a way of expanding your audience without additional work, making it a very efficient way for you to grow.

In this blog post will provide you with all the information you need to get started.

What is Restreaming?

Restreaming is the practice of sharing your live or prerecorded video content to several different p destinations at once. For example, rather than streaming to just one platform, such as YouTube or Facebook Live, you could stream to a few platforms at the same time, like Twitch, LinkedIn Live, Instagram, etc.

Restreaming is a technique that can help your content reach a much wider audience as you broadcast on different platforms at the same time and engage the users.

Why Should Content Creators Restream?

The benefits of re-streaming go beyond just convenience. Here’s why you should consider incorporating it into your content strategy:

1). Expand Your Reach:

Different platforms attract different demographics. By streaming on multiple platforms, you can cater to a diverse audience.

2). Save Time: Instead of recording separate content for each platform, restreaming allows you to deliver your message once while reaching multiple audiences simultaneously.

3). Increase Engagement: Viewers can interact with your content on the platform they’re most comfortable with, leading to higher engagement rates.

4). Boost Discoverability: Each platform’s algorithm works differently. By restreaming, you increase the chances of being discovered by new viewers.

How to Get Starter with Restreaming

1. Choose the Right Restreaming Service

The main thing to do to restream is to choose the right service that perfectly meets your requirements. Many services are available out there that let you relay on various websites simultaneously.

TvStartup is a part of these streaming services, which is quite a reliable way for those who need to stream to platforms like Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and mobile apps. TvStartup, with its simple integration process, is designed to allow you to manage all your streams from a single, user-friendly, and intuitive dashboard.

2. Set Up Your Streaming Platforms

The first step is to log in to your various accounts on the platforms you intend to stream to. For example, you would log in to:

YouTube
Facebook Live
Twitch

Every platform has its unique initial settings; some may request you to input a streaming key to get access or simply enable the live-streaming feature.

Other platforms may require more setup, such as getting a streaming key and activating the live-streaming features.

If TVStartup is your re-streaming platform, the process will be even simpler. TVStartup is able to seamlessly integrate with the main streaming platforms like Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and mobile apps.

This way, you can sign in to all your accounts and be in control at a single centralized dashboard. This allows for saving time and making sure everything is set up correctly. The single place to work on enables you to focus on content creation, while TVstartup will handle multiplatform streaming for you.

3. Prepare Your Content

Restreaming is proving to be successful by making content that not only catches the eye but it is also of superior quality. To do so, keep these following steps in mind:

1). Plan Your Script: Draft the script or sketch out the schedule to make the conversation more interesting.

2). Test Your Setup: Run a test to see if there are any technical issues.

3). Engage Your Audience: Choose questions, surveys, and call-to-actions to make viewers more involved.

4. Optimize for Each Platform

While restreaming allows you to broadcast on multiple platforms, each one has its nuances. Tailor your approach to maximize impact:

YouTube: Use compelling titles and thumbnails to attract viewers.

Facebook Live: Leverage personal connections and encourage shares.

Twitch: Focus on interactive elements like live chats and shoutouts.

Tips for Successful Restreaming

To ensure your restreaming efforts pay off, follow these best practices:

1).

Engage with Your Audience: Use tools that aggregate chat messages from all platforms so you can respond to viewers in real time.

2). Promote Your Streams: Announce your live streams in advance on social media, email newsletters, and other channels to build anticipation.

3). Monitor Analytics: After each stream, review performance metrics to see which platforms and content types resonated most with your audience.

4). Consistency is Key: Stick to a regular streaming schedule to build a loyal following.

5). Leverage Cross-Promotion: Encourage viewers on one platform to follow you on others for exclusive content or updates.

Challenges of Restreaming and How to Overcome Them

Re-streaming provides a lot of benefits, however, it carries its concerns. The points below involve the most common obstacles and the ways of dealing with them:

Bandwidth Limitations:

Solution: Get a reliable restreaming tool, for example TVstartup, that uploads your stream to a cloud server, meaning that the pressure on your local internet connection is less and everything will be broadcast smoothly.

Platform-Specific Restrictions:

Solution: Educate yourself with the Terms of Service of each platform. Through TVstartup, you’ll receive information to know the platform rules and thus don’t break the law.

Benefits of Restreaming Your Live TV Network Content

Given the power that re-streaming brings to your live TV network, you may want to take advantage of the following key benefits:

Stream Across the Internet in Minutes: The most exciting thing about restreaming is its ability to save you time and effort when it comes to pushing a stream out across various platforms. By recording, you are manually spreading out your live streams on various platforms throughout hours or even longer.

Get Real-Time Analytics for Your Streams: Effective marketing requires you to be sure that you have to deal with the right video performance as well as the correct strategy. TvStartup’s Broadcast Studio not only allows you to stream via several platforms at once but also enables you to track all your metrics—views, engagement, watch time, and so on—so that you can edit your content and marketing style for better results.

Share Pre-recorded Streams on Video Platforms: You might associate restreaming only with live content, but it is also possible to sync pre-recorded videos across platforms. TvStartup provides a feature to restream both live and pre-recorded videos, thus allowing you to share them in even more ways.

Increase the Chances of Your Streams Going Viral: It’s tough being a creator in the live space as direct viewership is difficult to obtain, making it very competitive. However, by restreaming your videos on live video platforms and social media sites, one gets a large viewership. Here is the content of the following live restreaming and the possibility of people liking it and maybe making it go viral and getting millions of potential viewers.

Conclusion

Restreaming is an essential tool for content authors who would like to access a wider audience.

By broadcasting across various platforms simultaneously, you are able to increase your visibility, engagement, and discoverability.

TvStartup will be able to help you by not only providing tools but also strategies that will enable you to accomplish your goal.

Don’t wait any longer—start restreaming now!

Mary

How to Organically Grow Your TV Network Reach the Right Way

In an era where digital platforms dominate, building and growing a TV network’s audience organically is essential for long-term success.

Unlike paid promotions, organic growth focuses on cultivating a genuine connection with your viewers, ensuring loyalty and engagement over time.

Here, we explore proven strategies to organically expand your TV network’s reach the right way.

10 Strategies To Organically Expand Your TV Network’s Reach

1. Understand Your Target Audience

To effectively grow your TV network, you need to know who you’re speaking to. Identify your audience demographics, interests, and viewing habits. Ask yourself:

What type of content resonates most with my viewers?
What platforms do they frequent?
What are their pain points or needs?

The foundation of any successful TV network is a deep understanding of its audience. Knowing your viewers’ demographics, interests, and behaviors allows you to create content that resonates with them.

Key Steps to Understand Your Audience:

Analyze Demographics: Use tools like YouTube Studio, Google Analytics, or platform insights to gather data on age, gender, location, and interests.
Monitor Viewing Habits: Identify what types of content your audience consumes the most and when they’re most active.
Engage with Feedback: Pay attention to comments, polls, and surveys to learn directly from your viewers.

PRO TIP

Create audience personas to better tailor your content and marketing strategies.

2. Leverage the Power of Content Marketing

Content is king when it comes to organic growth. Focus on producing high-quality, engaging, and relevant content tailored to your audience.

Consistency in content delivery builds trust and keeps viewers coming back.

Consistency is key. Develop a content calendar to maintain a steady flow of new material and ensure you’re always meeting viewer expectations.

Content Ideas:

Behind-the-Scenes: Showcase the production process to create a personal connection.
How-To Videos: Provide tutorials or educational content relevant to your niche.
Community Features: Highlight user-generated content or involve your audience in your programming

3. Optimize for Search Engines (SEO)

SEO isn’t just for websites—it’s essential for video content as well. Proper optimization ensures your TV network’s content is discoverable on search engines and platforms like YouTube.

SEO Best Practices:

Keyword Research: Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or SEMrush to identify relevant keywords.
Titles and Descriptions: Write compelling titles and descriptions with keywords naturally integrated.
Tags and Hashtags: Add tags relevant to your content and audience to increase visibility.
Closed Captions: Include captions to improve accessibility and search rankings.

PRO TIP

Create visually appealing thumbnails to boost click-through rates. SEO isn’t just for websites; it’s crucial for video platforms as well. Ensure your TV network’s content is discoverable by optimizing titles, descriptions, and tags.

4. Utilize Social Media to Boost Engagement

Social media is a powerful tool for amplifying your reach. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok allow you to connect with your audience and promote your content effectively.

Social Media Strategies:

Share Snippets: Post engaging clips from your episodes to draw viewers to your main platform.
Use Hashtags: Use trending and relevant hashtags to increase discoverability.
Engage with Followers: Respond to comments, host Q&A sessions, and participate in trending conversations.
Collaborate: Partner with influencers or creators in your niche for greater exposure.

PRO TIP

Post consistently and tailor your content to suit each platform’s unique audience. Social media platforms are invaluable for amplifying your reach. Share snippets of your TV network’s content, engage with followers, and participate in trending conversations.

5. Collaborate with Influencers and Partners

Partnering with influencers or creators in your niche can expose your TV network to a broader audience. Look for collaborators who align with your brand’s values and content.

Collaboration Ideas:

Co-hosted episodes
Guest appearances
Social media takeovers

6. Engage Directly with Your Audience

Building a community requires meaningful interaction. Respond to comments, host live Q&A sessions, or create polls to gather feedback from your viewers.

PRO TIP

Use platforms like Discord or Facebook Groups to foster a dedicated fan base.

7. Repurpose Content Across Platforms

Maximize your reach by repurposing existing content. For example:

Turn long-form episodes into short clips for social media.
Create blog posts summarizing key points from your shows.
Use audio snippets for podcasts.

8. Leverage Email Marketing

Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to stay connected with your audience. Regular newsletters keep viewers informed about new episodes, special events, or exclusive content.

Email Content Ideas:

Announce upcoming episodes or series.
Share behind-the-scenes updates.
Provide personalized recommendations based on viewing history.

PRO TIP

Use segmentation to tailor emails to different audience groups for higher engagement. Email marketing is an underrated tool for nurturing your audience. Regular newsletters can keep your viewers updated on new content, special events, or exclusive offers.

9. Focus on Consistency

Growing your TV network organically requires a thoughtful and consistent approach.

Understanding your audience, optimizing content for search engines, leveraging social media effectively, and fostering genuine engagement with viewers are key to building a loyal and ever-expanding audience.

Consistency is key to maintaining and growing your audience. Create a content calendar and stick to a regular schedule to keep your viewers engaged and informed.

10. Analyze and Adjust Your Strategies

Organic growth requires ongoing effort and adaptation. Regularly analyze your performance metrics to determine what works and what doesn’t.

Key Metrics to Track:

Viewer retention rates
Social media engagement
Website traffic
Subscriber growth

PRO TIP

Use insights from platforms like YouTube Analytics, Google Analytics, or social media dashboards to refine your approach.

Conclusion

Ready to take your TV network to the next level?

TvStartup offers innovative solutions to help video creators launch their own internet TV channels on platforms like Roku, FireTV, Apple TV, and more. Let TvStartup empower you to reach and monetize your audience effectively. Visit our website and start growing your network today!

Mary

Why You Need to Conquer Live Streaming NOW

Live streaming has taken the digital world by storm, revolutionizing how individuals and businesses engage with their audiences. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, content creator, or business owner, embracing live streaming is no longer optional—it’s essential.

As the live streaming market is projected to reach $4.26 billion by 2028, there has never been a better time to get started.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why live streaming should be at the core of your content strategy, how it can benefit your brand, and actionable steps to help you conquer this booming trend. Let’s dive in.

The Explosive Growth of Live Streaming

Numerous platforms like YouTube Live, Facebook Live, Twitch, and TikTok Live play a key role in making the live video service a new way of consuming content.

Research indicates that 80% of netizens have a preference for brands when they are shown an online video live, versus reading an article. Evidently, live streaming is the answer to the digital era’s insatiable hunger for authentic live and engaging experiences, as this one statistic alone is quite compelling.

Furthermore, live streaming not only bestows new perks, such as real-time communication with the audience, but it also allows for direct contact with people who you never met before.

The audience can ask introspective questions, share ideas in the comment section and link up with you which leads to connected feelings more likely than recorded content.

Why You Need to Conquer Live Streaming

1. Instant Engagement and Connection

Live streaming creates a direct channel of communication with your audience. Unlike pre-recorded videos or static blog posts, live video allows real-time interaction. This fosters trust and loyalty, as your viewers feel seen and heard. For example, hosting a live Q&A session can humanize your brand and build credibility within your niche.

2. Cost-Effective Marketing

Gone are the days when high-quality video production required expensive equipment and a professional crew. With just a smartphone, a good internet connection, and minimal setup, you can launch a live stream. This makes live streaming one of the most cost-effective ways to promote your business or brand.

3. Boosts Visibility Across Platforms

Social media platforms prioritize live content. Algorithms on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube often push live streams higher in users’ feeds, increasing your visibility. Plus, live videos can generate a sense of urgency, encouraging more viewers to tune in so they don’t miss out.

4. Repurpose Content for Maximum ROI

Live streams aren’t just for the moment—they can be repurposed into other forms of content. Record your live sessions and use them to create shorter clips, social media posts, blog articles, or even podcasts. This extends the lifespan of your content and maximizes your return on investment.

5. Drives Conversions and Sales

According to research, 30% of consumers are more likely to buy a product after watching a live video about it. Live streaming offers a unique opportunity to showcase your products, provide real-time demonstrations, and address any concerns or questions viewers might have. This interactive format is a powerful driver of sales.

Tips to Get Started with Live Streaming

Conquering live streaming might seem daunting at first, but it’s simpler than you think. Here are some actionable steps to help you launch your first live stream and make it a success:

1. Choose the Right Platform

Select a platform that aligns with your target audience. For businesses, Facebook Live and LinkedIn Live can work wonders. Creators targeting younger audiences may find TikTok Live more effective. Read this blog to learn more on how to choose the right platform.

2. Plan Your Content

Don’t go live without a plan. Outline your key talking points, set a clear objective, and rehearse if needed. Whether you’re hosting a product launch, tutorial, or Q&A session, having a roadmap will keep your stream focused and engaging.

3. Engage with Your Audience

Encourage viewers to interact during the live stream. Ask questions, respond to comments, and address shoutouts. This keeps your audience engaged and invested in your content.

4. Promote Your Live Stream in Advance

Build anticipation by promoting your live stream ahead of time. Use social media posts, email newsletters, and teasers to inform your audience about the date, time, and topic of your broadcast.

5. Invest in Quality

While live streaming is cost-effective, investing in a few essentials can significantly improve the quality of your streams. A good microphone, proper lighting, and a stable internet connection can make your broadcast more professional and enjoyable.

Real-Life Success Stories

1. Nike: Virtual Workouts and Brand Engagement

During the pandemic, Nike turned to live streaming to maintain its fitness-focused community. The brand hosted virtual workout sessions on platforms like Instagram Live and YouTube, where expert trainers led activities ranging from yoga to high-intensity interval training (HIIT).

Impact:

Kept customers engaged and motivated during lockdowns.
Strengthened Nike’s image as a health and fitness leader.
Increased sales of fitness apparel and accessories as customers replicated the workout routines at home.

2. Twitch Streamers: Turning Passion into a Career

Twitch has enabled countless creators to monetize their content through live streaming. Gamers like Ninja, Pokimane, and more, for example, have built global communities and multi-million-dollar brands through their streams.

Impact:

Streamers can turn their hobbies into careers.
Communities built on Twitch are highly loyal, fostering deeper connections between creators and audiences.

3 . Samsung: Product Launches

Tech giant Samsung regularly uses live streaming for its product launches. For example, the Galaxy Unpacked event streams globally, revealing new smartphones, wearables, and other tech innovations.

Impact:

Generates hype and excitement for new releases.
Allows real-time interaction with fans and tech enthusiasts.
Provides an inclusive experience for a worldwide audience.

Why Live Streaming Works

Live streaming has become an important tool in modern digital marketing and content development.

Through its ability to attract the attention of the viewers, it can deliver more visibility and achieve the desired results which is why it is the ultimate tool for anyone trying to be a trendsetter in the present era.

Authenticity: Viewers appreciate the unscripted, genuine nature of live content.
Real-Time Interaction: Immediate communication through comments and Q&A builds trust.
FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Live events encourage participation due to their limited-time nature.
Community Building: It creates a shared experience, fostering loyalty and engagement.

By using live streaming, brands and creators can connect with their audiences like never before, transforming passive viewers into loyal advocates and engaged customers.

Conclusion

Don’t wait for the perfect opportunity—the best time to start live streaming is NOW. With TvStartup, you can launch your own live streaming channel across platforms like Roku, FireTV, Apple TV, Android TV, and mobile apps.

Start the first broadcast, involve your audience in the real time, and TvStartup will help you to have a long journey with your brand.

Mary

How To Launch Your Roku TV App In 2025: Essential Development Tips For Success

In the fast-evolving world of internet TV, video creators find Roku TV as a winning platform due to the variety of options it offers.

With its solid ecosystem, ease of the Roku TV setup, and user-friendly interface, it is no wonder that Roku TV development is an appealing choice for creators who aim to increase their audience and monetize their content.

Developing a Roku TV app in 2025 will provide you with a chance to take your videos to millions of potential viewers online.

Luckily enough to be among the most effective competitors and trends will determine your success.

In this blog, we’ll take you step by step through practical tips for your Roku TV app commended for success.

What is Roku TV App Development?

Roku TV App development is the process of creating a custom application that runs on Roku devices, enabling content delivery through personalized channels. Roku is one of the most popular and fastest growing internet TV streaming devices. This development caters to customer needs by:

Personalized Viewing Experience: Features like the Roku TV channel list and the Roku TV menu allow viewers to curate their entertainment preferences.
Comprehensive Content Discovery: The Roku TV channel guide and the Roku Channel TV guide simplify content exploration, keeping audiences engaged.

Several options when it comes to developing a Roku TV App:

DIY Development
Learn Roku’s proprietary BrightScript language to create your app from scratch. This gives you full control but requires significant technical skills and time investment.
Hiring Professional Developers
Collaborate with a Roku development agency for a professional-quality app. While this ensures expertise, it can be expensive.
Using a Turnkey Platform
Platforms like TvStartup.com offer a streamlined approach, providing templates and tools tailored to video creators. These platforms eliminate the need for coding and reduce development time.

THE GOAL

Choose the best solution based on your technical ability, budget, and time constraints.

Why Develop a Roku TV App?

Roku TV app development is immensely beneficial for content creators, business owners, and service providers.

Here are a few reasons:

1). Reach a Large Audience:

Roku, one of the most widely used streaming platforms in the world, with innumerable users who actively stream. By developing an app on Roku, you can access this vast audience and increase your viewership.

2). Monetization Opportunities:

There are several ways that you can benefit from the monetization of the Roku platform, such as ad revenue, subscription models, and pay-per-view options. This is an opportunity for the content creators and companies to earn money directly from their app. To learn more about monetization, visit this link.

3). Cost-Effective Development:

When you compare building an app for Roku with the apps of other platforms like iOS or Android, building an app for Roku is cheaper. Roku provides developer tools and resources that make the development process more convenient and enable developers to submit an app at a much lower cost.

4). Brand Visibility:

On top of a rapid increase in the streaming market, a personalized Roku app will easily make your brand outshine the rest of the market. Roku allows developers to customize the app to match their brand and thus, the brand stands out too.

5). Streaming on Big Screens:

Roku users are used to watching on big screens, such as smart TVs. So, creating an app for Roku is a way that your audience will receive your content in a good quality and large-format, which might lead to better user engagement and satisfaction.

6). Global Reach with Roku’s Platform:

Roku is favored by many countries, implying that your app will be reached by a worldwide audience. This is beneficial if you are going to reach out to customers in a specific location.

7). Easy Integration with Other Platforms:

Roku can be seamlessly integrated with other streaming platforms and services, such as YouTube, Vimeo, and custom content delivery systems. Thus, easy distribution of content and its management over multiple platforms is ensured.

8). Analytics and Insights:

Roku provides analytics to developers, helping them to monitor user engagement, performance, and the amount of revenue they make.

THE GOAL

Establish a strong presence in the booming streaming market by developing a Roku TV app

Steps to Successfully Launch Your Roku TV App

1). Understand Your App’s Purpose and Audience

Clearly define your app’s purpose. Are you building an app to showcase entertainment, education, or niche content? Understanding your target audience’s preferences is key to delivering an engaging experience that meets their needs.

2). Choose the Right Monetization Strategy

Select a model that aligns with your app’s goals and audience expectations. Combining monetization strategies can also maximize revenue potential.

3. Utilize Roku’s Development Tools

Roku provides developers with resources to streamline the app creation process, including BrightScript, SceneGraph, and more.

4. Focus on User Experience (UX)

A seamless user experience is essential for retaining viewers and ensuring app success. Prioritize Intuitive Navigation, Fast Load Times, High Quality Video and more.

5). Comply with Roku’s Guidelines

Thoroughly review Roku’s developer guide for a smooth process.

6). Conduct Rigorous Testing

Testing is a crucial step to ensure your app functions flawlessly across different Roku devices.

Key areas to focus on include navigation and interface responsiveness, video playback performance and more.

7). Submit and Launch Your App

Once your app is polished and ready, submit it to Roku for review. Upon approval, your app will be available in the Roku Channel Store, where millions of users can discover and download it.

The Challenges Video Creators Face

As a video creator, your primary goal is to become more popular while your content delivery remains high-class. Still, the technical hurdles of Roku TV development might include:

Technical Hurdles: Developing software that smoothly integrates the app with the Roku TV menu, remote controls, and channel guides.
Content Management: Making your videos be seen and played within the Roku TV channels list.
Monetization: Integrating ads, subscriptions, or pay-per-view models in a meaningful manner.
User Experience: The remote navigation and menu utilization of the Roku TV app could be the most fluid and smooth reason for users to come here.

This leads us to discuss the requirement which is, in other words, a simple and fast way to create and publish the Roku TV app which also satisfies the viewer’s needs.

In order for your Roku TV app to become successful, you have to pay attention to the following factors:

Seamless Integration: Besides the compatibility with the Roku TV set-up, the app should work with the remote and the Roku TV menu.

Content Accessibility: A simple and easy-to-navigate Roku TV channel guide, which allows the users to quickly find the desired videos.

Monetization Flexibility: The ability to choose a revenue model that suits you best, including ads, subscriptions, or both.

Compliance with Standards: Sticking to the development guidelines of Roku in order to get your app approved quickly.

THE GOAL

Create an app that offers a seamless experience for users while achieving your business objectives.

Benefits of Launching Your Roku TV App

Here’s what you gain by partnering with TVStartup:

Access to a Global Audience: The huge base of Roku users, which is a valuable resource for the Roku TV channel list is thus available to you.
Revenue Growth: You can easily capitalize on the tools that are built in the app which are ad-supported and subscription-based to get a lucrative return on your investment.
Efficiency: Save time by focusing on your content while TVStartup handles the technical aspects.
Enhanced Viewer Experience: Ensure seamless functionality with the Roku TV app remote and setup.
Scalability: Prepare your app for future growth as your content library expands.

Create, Grow, and Monetize with Roku TV Channel

Developing, growing, and earning on a Roku TV channel is definitely an incredibly easy means for video creators, content owners, and businesses to have the chance to be on the ever-growing scene in the market.

With features like the Roku TV app remote, Roku TV setup, and an intuitive Roku TV menu, this platform ensures ease of use for both creators and viewers.

Roku also offers an excellent environment for creating your custom TV channel and allows you to have overall control of your content.

Whether you’re a filmmaker, educator, or business owner, a Roku TV channel allows you to share your videos and programs with a global audience through Roku’s vast user base.

For video creators, Roku’s robust ecosystem enables you to:

Reach a broad audience with access to millions of active Roku users worldwide.
Customize your channel’s appearance and functionality through Roku application development.
Monetize content using subscriptions, advertisements, and pay-per-view models.

THE GOAL

Leverage Roku’s global reach and monetization tools to boost your content’s visibility and revenue potential significantly

Why TVStartup is the Ideal Solution?

TvStartup is a revolutionized way of transforming video creators who seek an easy and efficient way to launch Roku TV apps. Here is how:

User-Friendly Tools: Streamlines Roku TV development with pre-built templates that are made specifically for video creators.
Customizable Design: Match your app’s look and feel to your brand identity.
Built-in Monetization: Users can add ads, subscriptions, or pay-per-view directly into your app.
Support for Content Organization: Develop an impactful Roku TV channel guide as well as a menu system of the device.
Fast Deployment: Effortlessly launch your application without having to deal with codes.

By understanding the revenue potential of each type of internet TV channel, creators can strategically pick the best format for their content and audience.

User Reviews

Definitely worth going with if you’re trying to start your own TV channel. I decided to get my Roku and Fire TV channels through TvStartup in late 2020! and the support was there for me every step of the way, Support even spent an hour on the phone with me one day because I needed some clarification. Since I’ve published my channels I haven’t had any negative experiences with this company. Definitely would recommend it to anyone.

I started my channel on Roku last year, adding Fire TV next, we are doing good. Haven’t had a problem. If I need help they are fast to get support. No billing increases like the last provider I used, recommended.

TvStartup is great, starting a Roku channel is not easy. But they helped me through every step and now my channel is on every platform they offer. I could not have done it on my own. I have to say this has been a lot easier than I thought it would be.

Take the First Step

Launching a Roku TV App is one of the most rewarding opportunities for video creators in 2025.

With the right approach, tools, and platform, you can draw from these areas to soar past the threats that barred you before and thus draw in more audiences and secure new streams of revenue.

It’s time to secure your spot. Schedule a FREE Live Demo below!

Mary

How to Monetize Videos: 11 Ways to Monetize Your Video Content Online in 2025

The rise of online internet TV has brought about a significant transformation in the way we consume and create content.

From niche creators to global brands, the shift to television through the internet shows an endless way for brands to earn and communicate.

But what is internet TV, and how can creators turn it into a profitable venture? Let’s explore!

How to Monetize in the Digital Age?

The era of traditional cable is fading, and online internet TV is taking over. Whether you’re looking to build a free internet TV channel or create premium content, there’s a path to monetization for everyone.

With billions of viewers turning to television through the internet, this is the perfect time to get started.

Are you ready to learn

the 11 types of internet TV channels that video creators are leveraging for success?

Discover the 11 Types of Internet TV Channels and Monetization Strategies

The beauty of television over the internet is that it’s flexible—offering various models to suit different types of content creators.

Let’s dive into the types of online internet TV channels and how you can turn your passion into profit.

Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD)

Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) is a system, where users pay a fee to the service in order to be able to watch a library of video content such as movies, TV shows, and documentaries on demand.

This concept is similar to Netflix or Disney+ which allows viewers to subscribe to these channels to watch the latest episodes of their favorite TV series or movies.

Monetization: Video creators can offer series, tutorials, or niche content that appeals to specific audiences. Subscription platforms like Patreon or Vimeo OTT provide tools for setting up a recurring revenue stream.

Key Features of SVOD:

Subscription-Based Access: Users can get unlimited content by paying a monthly or annual subscription.
On-Demand Viewing: The time for viewers to watch is up to them, as the content is available 24/7.
Wide Content Library: Catering to the heterogeneous tastes of subscribers is a catalog brimming with different genres, shows, and movies.
Ad-Free Experience: The majority of the video platforms on the web provide users with an ad-free viewing experience.
Cross-Device Compatibility: The show can be watched on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers, letting users switch devices easily.
Offline Viewing: Sometimes, you may also download the content for offline watching from the platform.

Pay-Per-View Channels

Pay-Per-View (PPV) channels are a kind of video service through which viewers can access content like live events, movies, or unique shows by paying a one-time fee. This model works well for exclusive or time-sensitive content.

Monetization: Platforms like Uscreen allow creators to set up pay-per-view access. Creators can charge for webinars, live performances, or exclusive releases to target fans willing to invest in premium content.

Key Features of Pay-Per-View Channels:

One-Time Payment: Users pay per item that includes content or events.
Exclusive Access: This is a common choice for high-priority or rare content, such as live sports, concerts, or movie premieres.
No Long-Term Commitment: Subscribers are not tied to a subscription plan or recurring charges.
High-Quality Content: Typically this is unique or premiere content that gives you a better return on investment.

Live Streaming Platforms

Live streaming platforms are digital services or tools that empower users to stream video and audio in real-time to people over the internet like Twitch, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live enable creators to interact with audiences directly.

Monetization: Monetization options include fan donations (like Twitch Bits or YouTube Super Chats), sponsorship deals, and ads displayed during the stream. Some platforms also offer subscription features for exclusive perks.

Key Features Of Live Streaming Platforms:

Real-Time Broadcasting: Streamers can engage their audience in real-time by sharing their thoughts direct from the scene.
Interactive Features: Through video chats, comments, polls, and Q&A dialogues the audience is thereby given the opportunity to interact.
Monetization Options: There are a number of different earnings channels available on social media, such as ads, sponsorships, donations, or subscriptions.
Analytics and Insights: Data on viewer activity, including demographics and trends, can be used to design the future video.
Content Recording: A few platforms are especially great streamers letting them save live broadcasts and republish them.

Advertising-Supported Channels

Advertising-Supported Channels (AVOD) are video streaming platforms or channels that offer content for free and at the same time revenue is generated through the ads shown to the viewers.

Content is free to watch, but supported by advertisements, as seen on YouTube or Dailymotion.

Monetization: Creators earn revenue through ad impressions (CPM) and ad clicks (CPC). Engaging, high-traffic content is key to maximizing ad revenue.

Pairing this model with partnerships or brand sponsorships can increase earnings.

Key Features of Advertising-Supported Channels:

Free Content Access: Non-paying viewers have to watch the ads interwoven into the program.
Advertising Revenue: Ads can be shown along with banners and sponsored content.
High Audience Reach: This free offer pulls in both a huge crowd of different people, which is good news for advertisers, ”so’ ‘it is a win-win situation.
Diverse Content Library: It ranges from movies, TV shows, and live streams to original programming.

Over-the-Top (OTT) Channels

OTT Channels are services that go Over-The-Top and stream videos, audio, or other media directly to the customers through the internet, thus, ditching the ordinary cable, satellite, or broadcasting television platforms such as Roku, Amazon Fire TV, or Apple TV, and so on.

Monetization: Creators can offer subscriptions, run ads, or use a freemium model. Partnering with an OTT provider can simplify distribution and help reach wider audiences.

Key Features of OTT Channels:

Internet-Based Delivery: OTT refers to streaming content over internet connections through mobile, smart TVs, laptops, and tablets.
Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Model: The distribution is only through the networks, and no cable or satellite providers are needed.
On-Demand and Live Options: Subscribers can choose either pre-recorded material or live streaming options.
Monetization Flexibility: It allows for the use of several revenue systems such as subscriptions, ad placements, and pay-per-view.
Cross-Device Compatibility: Ensure that it is available to users via different devices and platforms that connect to provide a full experience.

Freemium Channels

Freemium Channels are a kind of video streaming or internet TV service that combines free, basic content with premium paid options, such as ad-free viewing or exclusive episodes.

Monetization: Platforms like Vimeo or custom-built channels allow creators to upsell premium features. For example, you could release highlights for free but charge for full versions or behind-the-scenes content.

Key Features of Freemium Channels:

Free Content Access: The registered users obtain a particular portion of the content for free, which usually includes showing advertisements.
Premium Content/Features: Advanced functionalities, the only place to watch some shows, or a no-ad experience for those who pay for it.
Flexible Model: It combines the positive aspects of the platform being accessible for free and the revenue earned from paid upgrades.
Broad Audience Reach: It draws in a significant share of the general population by removing the initial subscription requirement while getting more money from those who are more satisfied with the service.

Educational Channels

Educational Channels are video platforms or streaming services exclusively for the purpose of providing educational content such as tutorials, training sessions, and knowledge-based programs. Popular examples include MasterClass or Coursera.

Monetization: Charge a subscription fee, offer one-time course purchases, or earn through partnerships with educational platforms like Udemy or Teachable. Certification add-ons can also be a revenue source.

Key Features of Educational Channels:

Centered on Learning: The content is planned in order to teach or train the learners. In most cases, the lessons or tutorials are set.
Broad Range of Topics: With a variety of subjects to offer, it includes academics, technology, arts, fitness, cooking, and so on.
Interactive Features: The learning activities that might be offered include quizzes, assignments, and live sessions.
Educator-Created or User-Created Content: Some of the channels have content that is made by educators and professionals, while others count on the user-generated tutorials.

E-commerce Channels

E-commerce channels are the digital services or platforms that companies utilize for trading products or offering services online.

Likewise, channels that focus on tracking specific audiences that are interested in buying products from online stores and shops.

Monetization: Revenue streams include viewer subscriptions, ad revenue, sponsorship deals with brands, and affiliate marketing (e.g., linking to online stores through QR codes and other methods.

Key Features of E-commerce Channels:

Online Storefront: A business is building the digital space in which the items are demonstrated, and the buyer finds it convenient to purchase them from their smartphones or computers, for example.
Payment Integration: Consumers use credit cards, e-wallets, or other forms of payment to make purchases through payment gateways that secure payments with the merchants.
Product Search and Filtering: These features allow the customer to search for products and sort the results by category, price, or rating, as well as to compare the items with one another.
Order Fulfillment: E-commerce links are often associated with logistics and delivery companies to pick up, process, and dispatch the demanding orders.
Customer Interaction: Comprises of customer feedback, shopping reviews, and social proof to aid them in their buying process.

Niche Entertainment Channels

Niche Entertainment Channels are platforms like streaming services that have very limited user bases but attract a very devoted group of fans.

Tailored for specific audiences, such as fitness enthusiasts, food lovers, or travel adventurers.

Monetization: Earn through ads, sponsorships, and selling related products (like fitness equipment or travel guides). Loyal niche audiences are highly attractive to advertisers and partners.

Key Features of Niche Entertainment Channels:

Focused Content: Pertaining to the theme of the material or reflected in the genre or the particular audience, it is a sport, a hobby, or a subculture.
Targeted Audience: The main focus is a particular audience that is a fan of a particular genre, culture, or interest.
Unique Programming: It transmits content that is not quite properly available on mainstream platforms, and therefore, it is of an exclusive or specialized nature.
Community Engagement: Often, it will because a sense of community is being created around a shared interest, thus, ensuring the interaction and loyalty of the viewers.
Curated Experience: Content is selected or made specifically for the needs and the inclinations of the intended viewers.

Corporate Channels

Corporate Channels are platforms for video or media that are created and managed by companies or organizations with the purpose of communicating with their target audiences, as well as promoting their brand or sharing branded content.

Monetization: Creators can collaborate with companies to produce sponsored videos, branded series, or marketing campaigns. Companies may also hire creators to manage their channels.

Key Features of Corporate Channels:

Brand-Centric Content: The content on the corporate channels is mainly the one that brings out the products, services, mission, values, and culture of the organization.
Internal Communications: Some channels of companies are meant for internal purposes, such as training of employees, updates, and corporate announcements.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Such channels can also serve to introduce a company’s CSR activities, sustainable projects, and community engagements.
Professional Production: Corporate channel content is usually of good quality, which corresponds to the company’s brand image and professional outlook.

Selling Airtime or Promoting Content from other creators

Channel owners using any of the above methods can also sell airtime to other content creators to promote their video channels or any content.

Monetization: Creators can monetize by selling airtime to other creators, allowing them to showcase their content on your channel for a fee.

Examples of Selling Airtime or Promoting Content:

Traditional TV/Radio Stations: For example, a TV station may sell airtime to companies or other content creators who are advertising their ads or infomercials in the commercial breaks.
YouTube Channels: A top YouTuber may, for instance, sponsor or promote another person’s video, and this may happen because of a fee or the simple fact that such a promotion may also occur mutually.
Podcast Networks: Podcast presenters may sell slots for ads or promote podcasts created by other authors in return for payment.

By understanding the revenue potential of each type of internet TV channel, creators can strategically pick the best format for their content and audience.

Why You Should Dive into Internet TV?

Imagine creating a free internet TV channel that attracts a global audience while generating steady income.

With television over the internet, you have the flexibility to choose your content, connect with your audience, and monetize in multiple ways.

Think of the satisfaction of sharing your passion with the world while earning from subscriptions, ads, and sponsorships.

Success stories like YouTube stars and niche creators prove that online internet TV is a powerful platform to grow your brand.

Start Your Internet TV Journey Today!

Check this out to learn more about creating your own internet TV Channel. Discover how to select the right platform and choose a monetization model that fits your goals.

Visit our website for more tips on launching and profiting from your online internet TV Channel. The future of entertainment is at your fingertips!

Mary

How to Pick the Right Platform: Internet TV Success

Are you a video creator struggling to figure out where to showcase your content? As a video creator, choosing the right platform can make or break your success.

With countless streaming services and platforms available, where should you begin? How do you know which one is the best fit for your goals?

The answer is more critical than you think: the right platform not only boosts your visibility but also maximizes your monetization potential.

The competition is fierce, but understanding the key factors when selecting a platform can elevate your career as a video creator.

Let’s explore how you can make an informed decision and choose the ideal platform for your success!

Problem:

With so many platforms available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re a budding video creator or a seasoned professional, the question remains the same: Where should I share my content to get the best results?

Picking the wrong platform can lead to low engagement, minimal revenue, and wasted effort.

The challenge is finding a platform that aligns with your audience, content type, and monetization strategy.

Should you focus on mainstream platforms like YouTube and Instagram, or take advantage of the growing connected TV space on platforms like Roku and FireTV? Each option offers unique benefits.

The right platform ensures that your content is not only seen but monetized effectively. So, how do you choose? How do you choose the right platform? Let’s break it down.

Solution:

Identify Your Audience

Before diving into specific platforms, it’s crucial to understand who your audience is. Different platforms cater to different types of viewers.

For example:

YouTube appeals to a wide-ranging audience and works best for long-form, educational, and how-to content.

Facebook attracts a broad audience, ideal for community building, social sharing, and diverse multimedia content.
Instagram caters to a young, visually-driven audience, excelling with lifestyle, fashion, and short-form content.

On the other hand, connected TV platforms like Roku, FireTV, and Apple TV allow you to reach an even broader, in-home audience.

Roku alone boasts over 120 million viewers, making it a goldmine for video creators looking for sustained viewer engagement.

Why Roku, FireTV, and Apple TV are Game-Changers?

Connected TV platforms such as Roku, FireTV, and Apple TV offer a unique opportunity for video creators.

hese platforms allow you to reach over 200 million combined viewers, providing a captive audience that is ready to engage.

Here’s a breakdown of why these platforms stand out:

Roku: With 120 million+ viewers, Roku is the leading connected TV platform in the U.S. and offers unmatched audience retention.

FireTV: Streaming to 50 million+ households, FireTV extends your reach to international audiences.

Apple TV: Though smaller with 45 million+ viewers, Apple TV is a premium platform ideal for high-quality content distribution.

These three platforms have over 200 million combined viewers, which is far more than what many mobile-based platforms can offer.

Video creators looking to expand their reach and monetize their content on a larger scale should seriously consider these options.

PRO TIP

Tap into the 200+ million viewers across Roku, FireTV, and Apple TV, where engaged audiences are primed for immersive, high-quality content, and maximize your content's exposure and revenue.

Why Is Roku The Best Place To Start?

If you’re starting fresh or looking to launch a new video channel, Roku is the ideal platform for video creators.

Here’s why:

Leading in-home TV platform: Roku has over 120 million monthly active users, providing a massive audience to showcase your content.
Most popular connected TV device in the U.S. : Roku’s dominance in the U.S ensures that your content will be available to a broad and engaged audience.
Captive Audience: Unlike the fleeting nature of mobile platforms, Roku offers a more focused viewing experience. Users are often looking for longer, more immersive content, which can help video creators retain viewers and drive quality engagement.

Roku also comes pre-installed on many popular smart TVs from brands such as TCL, JVC, Sharp, and Philips, increasing the likelihood that your content will be seen by millions of viewers without them needing any additional hardware.

PRO TIP

Leverage Roku’s 120 million active users, unmatched U.S. dominance, immersive engagement, and smart TV integration to launch your video channel and captivate a vast, ready-to-watch audience.

Why FireTV Is The Perfect Companion?

While Roku is the ideal starting point, expanding to FireTV will help you tap into an additional 50 million+ households.

Here’s what makes FireTV a great platform:

International reach: FireTV is available worldwide, making it an excellent option for creators with a global audience.
Large, engaged audience: Streaming to over 50 million homes, FireTV is the second-most popular connected TV platform after Roku.
Combining Roku and FireTV gives you access to 170 million viewers across the two leading connected TV platforms.

PRO TIP

Start with Roku to build your audience, and then expand to FireTV for even greater visibility. Together, these platforms provide unparalleled access to viewers who prefer consuming content through their TVs.

Evaluate Monetization Options

Monetization is a key factor when choosing a platform. Platforms like YouTube and Facebook rely heavily on ad revenue, but connected TV platforms offer even more lucrative opportunities through in-app purchases, subscriptions, and premium ad placements.

For example:

Roku allows creators to monetize through advertising and subscriptions, giving you control over your revenue streams.
FireTV enables access to a larger
international market, allowing you to reach a global audience and
Unlock additional monetization opportunities.

PRO TIP

For creators looking to maximize their income, connected TV platforms offer far more flexibility and control than ad-reliant platforms like YouTube.

Client Reviews:

Have you thought about where your content can thrive the most? Consider which platform aligns with your audience and content style.

If you’re looking for sustained growth and larger audiences, connected TV platforms like Roku and FireTV are powerful options.

With over 170 million viewers combined, they provide a massive opportunity for creators to engage with their audience and monetize effectively.

Check out some reviews from our previous clients for your reference.

Tvstartup is the only company for ” Doctv33 ” tv network and mobile apps. We are going on year two with this company that has expanded over the last year . There always on the ball when it comes to any questions and emails. One thing I really love about them is that there real. Every time I have sent an email or need my numbers and downloads there on it . They changed my life and now where growing as a real tv network thanks to tvstartup..

Definitely worth going with if you’re trying to start your own TV channels. I decided to get my Roku and Fire TV channels through TV startup in late 2020! and the support was there for me every step of the way, Support even spent an hour on the phone with me one day because I needed some clarification. Since I’ve published my channels I haven’t had any negative experiences with this company. Definitely would recommend it to anyone.

Mary

How to Make Your Own Online TV Channel in 2025

Did you ever envision making your very own television network, in which you are absolutely in control of everything? From content to the management of audience interaction and, most importantly, monetization?

Welcome to the era of internet television networks where the boundaries blur between traditional kinds of TV and online content, and with all this, the power moves directly into the hands of creators.

The Rise of Internet Television: Why Does It Matter to You?

The face of usage of television has drastically changed. TV is no longer about the same cable providers or satellite dishes. The rise of online television networks has brought in a new world of entertainment and information sharing, where video content creators can build their own internet channels.

The question now is how to take this revolution to an ultimate level where it not only keeps the audience engaged but also creates a profitable revenue stream?

Whether you are a video content creator looking for a better way to connect with your audience or a business video creator to strengthen your brand’s visibility, creating an internet television network can bring you one step closer to achieving control and flexibility.

But how exactly do you do that? And most importantly, how do you monetize that? Let’s dig into these important aspects.

Why Is Traditional Television Losing Its Grip?

The truth is, that traditional TV networks are losing viewers, especially with younger audiences. It’s no longer the case whereby a family must huddle around their living room couch at a particular time to watch their favorite show.

All of that is changing with on-demand video and live streaming requirements.

Not only are viewers moving online, but content video creators also face limitations in the traditional broadcasting system—mainly, the inability to own their audience, control distribution, or directly monetize without a third party in the middle.

Think about it: Traditional TV requires a massive infrastructure, broadcasting licenses, expensive equipment, and contracts with cable providers. The result?

Limited creative freedom, restricted revenue opportunities, and a far reach only accessible to big-budget operations.

If you’re not a giant media corporation, creating and running your own channel may have once seemed impossible.

But not anymore.

Set up Your Own Internet Television Network

All thanks to the invention of technology, to set up internet TV networks is not anymore an illusion. Platforms like TVStartup Inc. allow you to develop your own online television channel—one that you fully control.

You can stream live, offer video on demand, and even schedule 24/7 programming. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how you can launch and monetize your own internet television network:

Choose The Right Platform

The first step in setting up your Internet TV Network is selecting a platform that offers flexibility, and, most importantly, control has to be one of the first things that you look for.

Platforms like TVStartup Inc. allow you to do just that. Our system lets you build your network from scratch where it offers you the use of live streaming, restreaming, and even recorded broadcasts.

Choosing a platform with these capabilities is essential because it provides you with the tools to engage your audience in real-time or on-demand, wherever they are.

Plus, with the ability to monetize your content directly through your app, you no longer have to depend on ad revenue from third-party services.

Check this out to learn more on how to pick the right platform.

Set Up Your Channel: Content Is King

Once you decide on a platform, the next step is content. Decide what type of content would work best for your audience. Will you have live events, interviews, or webinars? Maybe you’ll want a combination of live streaming and video on-demand content?

One of the wonderful advantages of an Internet TV network is its capability to provide an assortment of formats-from scheduled broadcasts to videos on demand.

Monetization Strategies: How To Make Profit From Your Own Internet TV Network?

Creating your own internet television network provides you with a number of ways to make money under your control. Let’s break down a few:

Subscription

Charge viewers a monthly fee for access or let people access some content for free and charge for premium categories. The system has everything you need to set up and manage your membership and subscription programs.

You can choose what content will be behind the paywall so you can charge people to watch it and track everything inside your dashboard.

This can be one of the most profitable methods because you don’t even need a large audience to make a lot of money from subscription programs.

Pay per View

This is where you charge a fee per video or for live events like a ticket to watch a stream.

You can also sell access to a specific show or specific video, you can let someone watch the first episode for free, hook them in and then charge a fee to unlock the rest of the episodes in the list.

Hands-Free Ad Injection

You get paid every time someone watches an ad on your channel. You get paid more for ads on smart TV channels than you do on YouTube. Advertisers pay more for this kind of advertising because the engagement is higher with the captive audience watching in their living room.

The best part is you don’t have to sell anything yourself, you just enable the ads and get the revenue automatically every time people watch your channel.

24/7 you can be running your program picking up impressions each time and break runs which get more impressions and more earnings.

Also, there are many other ways to monetize your channel like getting your own sponsors, selling to other content creators to run programs on your channel.

You can also even sell your own products, courses, and other things directly through marketing them to your network and there are tons of opportunities to monetize your network.

One of the most critical areas for any online television channel is audience engagement. You can directly interact with your viewers on internet channels as you cannot do in traditional TV.

Engage your audience by using live chat, comments, polls, and other features that allow real-time interactions with your online content.

Check this out to learn more about monetization strategies.

Why Now Is The Time To Get Started?

With more people consuming content online than ever before, the potential to reach a global audience with your internet television network is at its peak.

The potential in either starting a new project or in migrating from traditional TV over to the internet is boundless.

For example, at TVStartup Inc., where clients have successfully built channels that cater to a diverse range of industries.

Such creators are in charge of their own internet TV channels, which connects them more deeply with their audience and gives them a lot more freedom to monetize on their own terms.

The Future Of Television Is Online

With the right tools and strategy, creating your own internet television channel is easier and much more rewarding than ever before.

Leverage a platform such as TVStartup Inc., which allows you to retain control over your content, audience, and monetization.

Whether through subscriptions, pay-per-view, or through ads, there are many ways to build a profitable channel supporting long-term goals.

Mary

How to Launch Your Exciting Internet TV Channel Today?

Starting an Internet TV station can be both fun and exciting. With millions of people online looking for videos it is easy to see why Internet TV is exploding and is the video distribution platform of the future.

However, what is important to keep in mind is your Internet TV station is not a station without content. It is just a platform to distribute your videos or your content.

The different broadcasting aspects of Internet TV:

You have prerecorded video (streaming), Video on Demand, and live broadcasting are the different broadcasting aspects of your Internet TV Station.

First the “Streaming”. This is where many people get confused because they really do not know what streaming means. When referring to streaming we are speaking of the ability to stream several “pre-recorded” videos together to make a “stream” or a TV channel if you will.

In satellite and cable, they call this a “linear” channel. It is an internet TV channel that has a schedule and resembles a standard TV channel that you might receive on a satellite or cable subscription.

So how is your streaming channel setup?

Well, if you purchased an Internet TV channel from us then you have a few options. However, it all boils down to one simple concept. You need to upload your videos to your site (or our server) and then arrange them in the order you want them to play. This is called a “Play list”.

Once you create your play list your videos will then play in the order you arranged them on your Internet TV site. Once the play list is finished it then automatically “loops” and begins to play again. This way you always have your streaming channel playing. You can always add or take away videos or re arrange your play list.

Let’s now talk about “Live Broadcasting” onto your site. This is by far one of the questions I get asked the most. However, let us discuss the particulars. For example, if you want to broadcast live onto your site then you have to decide if you will take down your streaming feed (your prerecorded play list) and then broadcast your live feed into your main video player.

You could also decide to have a separate page for live broadcasts and when broadcasting live you could indicate it on your home page with something like “Live broadcast in progress click here to join”. Either way, the live broadcasts are configured in your admin panel.

If you bought an Internet Television package through us then this is already available in your admin panel and was configured the way you wanted it when it was purchased.

“

Video on Demand” is what I refer to as “archived videos”.

What is the great example of VOD?

YouTube is a great example of video on demand because none of the videos are “live”. In other words, these are videos that are not streaming on your main page and they are not live.

These could be old videos that you have streamed in the past but are now stored on your site as an archived video.

You could have a separate page for video on demand or you could have your archived videos under your main player or on the left or right hand side of your home page (with thumbnail icons).

Video on demand videos can also be uploaded through your admin panel where you can add a description and place it where you want in your video on demand list.

Feel free to visit our site or you can view our Internet TV packages by clicking here. We provide turn-key ready to use Internet TV packages.

No need for any technical skills. We will teach you how to use it.

For more reading see

Mary

How to Know You Have the Right Tools for Smooth Streaming?

In this article I will find out what a CDN does, what bandwidth is and why you need it for your Internet TV site, and the difference in what web hosting is.

What's the difference of Web Hosting, Bandwidth, and CDN?

When you have an online TV station, it is more than just a website. Many people think any basic hosting account can handle an online TV site. However, most hosting companies offer “shared hosting.”

This means one server is shared by many paying customers. They call this “unlimited bandwidth,” but this isn’t truly unlimited for video.

It’s like your phone company giving you “unlimited” long distance – they would stop you if you ran a telemarketing business from home. Video has real bandwidth costs that hosting companies can’t ignore. Bandwidth costs money.

There are three key ingredients for the backend of an Internet TV station.

First, your shared web hosting only holds your website files. For example, your graphics, your HTML code, or your contact us form, those are the only things that your web hosting account holds.

Your video files are going to be very large. It is common for many Internet TV stations to have a lot of videos stored. These videos aren’t saved on your website’s hosting account. Instead, you need to use a CDN.

A CDN keeps your videos stored. It sends them smoothly to your viewers. There will be no pauses or stops. A CDN has the proper server set up and configuration for video play out and delivery.

Your bandwidth is what people are using to watch your videos.

For example, if you have 100 viewers viewing your Internet TV station at the same time and your video is, let’s say, 500 MB long, each of those viewers is watching that video at a certain bit rate.

Let’s say 256 kbps; to properly display a video for all 100 customers at the same time, a certain amount of bandwidth must be used.

People naturally think that the bandwidth is coming from the viewer’s Internet service provider. Well that’s true but the video also must be delivered to the Internet service provider.

In other words, there is a server doing the upload providing the video upload and then the viewer who is downloading the stream.

The importance of CDN & Server Configuration

If you do not have a proper CDN and server configuration then the upload of the video content to those 100 simultaneous viewers will not take place, or if it does take place it will cause most of the viewers player to buffer continuously until they just close your site.

Check out our Channel Manager Plans to learn about our different internet TV platforms and their prices.

Haven’t started a channel yet?

Mary

Discover How Easy to Start Streaming on Roku Channel?

Okay, so you’ve got an internet TV channel, or maybe you just have an idea for one? Either way, you want to broadcast your channel on Roku and have no idea how. Or maybe you are familiar with Roku and may know a little about the process but you don’t know the ins and outs.

Well, the wonderful thing is that no matter what your situation, there is a very economical solution to getting on Roku. However, before I get into the ins and outs of having a channel on Roku, let’s first discuss some basics.

For some of you reading this article you may already be familiar with some of this content. However, this article is written for those that really have no idea how to proceed with starting an Internet TV channel and getting their channel on Roku.

What are the essential steps in starting a TV Channel?

With that said, let’s start with the fundamental basics. Obviously, if you are starting a channel you need content. I am going to assume that you already have a library of content, or you are planning on obtaining your video content and you already are moving in that direction.

No video content then no channel. This may seem elementary to most but none the less it must be said.

Next, you need to decide if your new channel will only be on Roku or will it also be on the internet? In other words, will you have an Internet TV channel that will also broadcast on Roku?

Many people do this because they also want to self brand their channel. They do not want to “only be on Roku”.

In other words, you can also have your own domain name and Internet TV channel that you can schedule your video content on and make your playlists. This is a great promotional and marketing tool.

I do highly suggest you do both. This will give you more visibility and credibility when it comes to future opportunities.

So what type of equipment is needed?

Discover the Perks of TVStartup Packages

First of all, if you use one of our packages you will not need any equipment. We have a built in scheduler so that you can upload and schedule videos to play like a real TV channel. It is also interfaced with Roku so that once we create your Roku channel you can use our scheduler.

You may also choose to use your own equipment if you are wanting graphic overlays such as stock quotes and so forth.

At the moment, it is not possible to overlay graphics on a live internet stream without some actual physical hardware to do so. So, if you plan to do this then you need to have the budget for it.

Typically to broadcast on Roku you would need a CDN, a playout server, playout software to schedule your videos and a delivery method to send your channels to Roku. However, we have combined all of this into one product called our Channel Manager.

If you’re looking to start your own Roku channel (or for that matter any connected TV device such as FireTV, Apple TV, Samsung Smart TV, and more) then check out our article on “3 Easy steps to start your own online TV Network” and you can get started quickly.

Mary

How Affordable Is Launching Your Own Roku Channel?

What is Roku Channel?

Roku is one of the fastest growing platforms in the market today. With over 15 million devices sold and counting, it’s no wonder why broadcasters want their own channel on ROKU.

It’s quite a better alternative to paying a satellite or cable TV subscription as well.

Overall, if you want to compete in the Internet TV world, having a channel on ROKU is critical.

Roku development can be tricky and it’s always better to leave it to an expert.

What is CDN?

A CDN is a network of specialized video servers that are tailored to video delivery through the internet. In other words, they are configured specifically for the task of having thousands of people watching your channel at the same time without the buffering or the crashing.

Without a CDN it is not possible to have a Roku channel or any internet TV channel for that matter.

How Much Does It Cost to Have Your Own Roku Channel?

Is there a cost to be on ROKU? There is obviously a charge from your CDN and a charge from your ROKU development but to be listed on their system there is no charge for them to carry your channel.

For example there is no charge to be on the internet….but if you want to be on the internet you need to pay a hosting service to host your website, and an internet provider to access the internet.

Just like Roku, there are requirements that must be met for you to be included on their platform and that includes having a Roku developer develop an app that will meet their quality standards and a CDN that will be able to deliver the video efficiently and effectively to their platform.

We also have our own data center and CDN so that your channel runs smoothly and tens of thousands can watch it simultaneously. You can learn more about our Roku channel by clicking on our internet TV page.

We can also develop customized Roku apps for far less than most because our developers are in house verses most companies who have to freelance their development.

So the bottom line is if you want to save thousands and thousands of dollars on your ROKU project use a company that can provide you templates to choose from instead of custom development. You can’t go wrong with your own Roku channel!

Download our free eBook on how to start your own Internet TV and Roku channel to learn more!

Mary

How to Expand Your Audience with Amazon FireTV Channel?

If you’re a video content creator who is searching for platforms to promote your videos, Fire TV Channels is one of the best options which are worth trying.

Being among the biggest online platforms worldwide, Fire TV Channels represents a unique chance to bring your content to users who are already looking for something new-to-them and exciting. But how do you leverage this platform to increase your audience?

Learn how the channels of live TV Fire TV can certainly give you the means to broaden your reach and attract a dedicated viewership.

Why FireTV?

FireTV stands out among other streaming platforms for several reasons:

Massive Audience Base: FireTV boasts over 50 million active users worldwide. This means your content could potentially reach millions of viewers every day.
Wide Device Compatibility: FireTV Channels can be accessed through a variety of devices, including Fire Stick, Fire Tablets, and Fire TVs, making it easy for users to find and enjoy your content.
Amazon Ecosystem Integration: With FireTV, you gain access to Amazon’s vast global network and powerful recommendation algorithms, increasing the discoverability of your channel.

Make Your Content Stand Out

The primary way to engage your target audience through Fire TV Channels is to enable your content to be found.

With the recent increase in the popularity of Fire TV live TV channels, there is now an intense competitive environment that also brings more potential viewers that actively search for content.

The provision of your content on Fire TV Channels allows your video library to be viewed by millions of potential customers with the touch of a button.

Provide captivating thumbnails, compelling descriptions, and insert your most attractive videos in the first places

Optimize Your Content for Searchability

With so much content on FireTV, optimization is critical to standing out:

Keywords & Metadata: Incorporate relevant keywords into your video titles, descriptions, and tags to make your channel discoverable through searches.
Content Categories: Organize your videos into clear categories and playlists to help viewers quickly locate the type of content they’re interested in.
Thumbnails: Design compelling thumbnails with bold text and vibrant visuals that encourage clicks.

Example: A fitness channel might use keywords like “home workouts,” “beginner fitness,” or “weight loss exercises.”

Showcase Your Unique Value

Once you’ve captured your audience’s attention, it’s time to keep them interested. Highlight how your videos solve problems or add value to their lives.

For instance, if you’re a fitness creator, position your content as an easy and effective way for viewers to reach their health goals.

Using FireTV Channels guide, you can make sure your content is featured in specific categories that resonate with viewers looking for new and engaging material.

You can target niches with specific types of channels on FireTV, ensuring that your content is categorized and easily accessible for the right audience.

Promote Your FireTV Channel

Promotion is key to driving traffic to your channel:

Cross-Promotion: Share your FireTV channel on social media platforms, blogs, and newsletters to maximize exposure. Include a direct link for easy access.
Collaborations: Partner with other content creators or influencers in your niche to tap into their audience base. Joint projects can amplify your reach.
Amazon Advertising: Use Amazon’s advertising options to place your channel in front of targeted audiences who are more likely to engage with your content

Build Emotional Connections and Trust

Now that your viewers are interested, the next idea is to establish a good emotional bond.

Showcasing testimonials, success stories, or content that resonates with your audience is one of the best ways to do this on Fire TV Channels. Growth in the number of subscribers will be the result only if viewers notice that the content is constantly adding value to people’s lives and/or changing them for the better.

Use compelling visuals, emotional appeals, and unique offers to make your content irresistible. Highlight the exclusive nature of your content or the value it brings, whether it’s access to behind-the-scenes footage, live broadcasts, or expert advice.

Convert Interest into Viewership

Once you’ve captured your audience’s attention and sparked their interest, it’s time to convert them into regular viewers.

A clear call-to-action is essential. Encourage viewers to subscribe to your channel, interact with your content, and share it with others.

Engage with your Audience through interactive content such as interactive polls and Q&A sessions to engage your viewers directly.

Also, include a clear and compelling call-to-action (CTA) at the end of your videos, such as: “Don’t miss out on exclusive content—subscribe now!”.

Furthermore, respond to viewer comments, reviews, and suggestions. This makes them feel valued and helps you refine your offerings.

Conclusion

FireTV Channel presents a great opportunity for video creators to increase their audience, earn money, and to be one of the main players in streaming media business.

Taking an innovative approach and using the right technology lets you compete on an even field with big companies in streaming live.

Pathways through the setup and optimization of the system might be harder to understand if you do not have the necessary support.

That is why TVStartups come into play. As your most reliable partner, TVStartup is determined to give you the right information and access that you require to put up your Fire TV Channel smoothly.

Do you wish to raise your video content to the highest level?

Mary

How to Select the Right Satellite for Your TV Station?

How to Choose the Right Satellite?

If you read our site and some of our other blog posts you may find we talk quite a bit about the different techniques and strategies necessary to start a satellite TV channel.

We talked about signal delivery, studio setup, video servers and several other issues. However, one thing we have not discussed was what satellite or satellites you should broadcast on?

This is indeed a question some people put no thought into while others put this as their number one priority.

If you already know what satellite you want to broadcast on and you are sure of your market potential then this article may do you little benefit. However, if you are unsure or you are broadcasting to a country or countries that you are not familiar with then you need to keep a few facts in mind.

The first and foremost (and the most obvious) in your mind will be the geographical area (or better known as the satellite footprint) that the satellite covers.

Most satellite footprints cover several countries or entire continents.

But as impressive as a satellite footprint might sound, it means nothing if there are no antennas tuned in to that satellite.

Factors That You Need To Consider

In other words, you can reach a entire continent but if there are no dishes (receivers/subscribers) pointed at that particular satellite then your effort is in vain.

You may get a lower monthly rate for your satellite channels, but how does that help if no one is watching?

Church’s fall victim to this the most as they get sold on reaching a huge continent or area (for example Asia, or Europe or Africa) and are convinced to into signing a long term contract for a lower monthly price only to find out very few households are tuned in to that particular satellite.

One – The single most important factor is how many people have antennas (dishes) pointed at that particular satellite? The more popular a satellite is, the more it costs to broadcast on. A satellite reaching 1 million viewers will be much cheaper than one reaching 40 million.

Two – Is your channel an FTA channel? FTA stands for “Free to Air”. Do not let that confuse you as meaning free for you to broadcast. What it means is free for your viewers to see the channel without paying a subscription fee. Or are you going to charge a subscription fee for your channel?

Depending on the subscription fee, some satellites may serve the purpose better than others.

Three – Your budget. If you have a low budget then your options may be limited and you may have to make sacrifices to fit your budget. Although I never recommend broadcasting on a satellite with few viewers, other techniques can be applied to lower the monthly fees.

Some of these techniques deal with the compression of the video on the satellite transponder instead of using a fixed bit rate (Okay if that sounds confusing do not worry we can help you understand it easier).

Pricing is always based on the amount of bandwidth you purchase. The more bandwidth you have, the better quality of picture you have broadcasting to your viewers.

Keep these three points in mind. If you have questions or you want to avail of our professional services please feel free to browse our site by clicking here.

Or you may click on the link below!

Mary

How to Start Your Own TV Channel: An Essential Guide

Okay so now you and your team have decided that you want to start your own TV station. Maybe you are thinking “What do we do next”? How do we proceed? Well, starting a TV channel is a general term.

In this article I am just going to focus on the basics. However, feel free to browse our site to learn more. We specialize in this field and have helped companies from around the world start their own channels. You may browse our site by clicking here.

So now that you decided to start your TV channel what are your goals? What is your targeted geographical area?

What Are The Common Questions When Starting A TV Channel?

1. Where do you want to broadcast from?

2. Where do you want to broadcast to?

3. Do you want the ability to broadcast live?

It seems like a simple question but the answers help get the ball rolling. You need solid answers to this.

If you are considering starting in London, or lets say Ghana you have a serious decisions to make. Many of our clients have been undecided on choosing between two locations to set up their channel.

If you want to start making your plans solid, start making some solid decisions so that you can have the foundation for your channel.

For this article I am going to discuss satellite TV. Although we help setup Internet TV, Terrestrial broadcast, and Cable Television Satellite TV seems to be the most popular choice as it reaches a large area for a much cheaper price.

I am sure you are thinking what are the next steps? You have decided on your location, you have decided where you want to broadcast from and broadcast too.

You have decided you want to broadcast live.

Key Decisions to Launch Your TV Channel!

Next, you need to decide if you need the ability to produce your own video content or if you are going to purchase the rights. Most channels do a combination of both.

If you are going to produce your own content, this is an entirely separate subject that can be a lengthy discussion.

In short, you need to know what type of content you want to produce so that you can effectively decide on the type of production studio you need.

For example if you are only wanting to produce cartoons then it is obvious that you do not need a NEWS studio set or ANY set.

Instead you would need a graphics and animation team. However, if you are doing talk shows, sports shows, or NEWS you would need a production studio with sets, and maybe even a solid tricaster for virtual sets.

Next you need to decide on the type of look and feel that you want your channel to have.

If you really want a professional American look and feel to your channel then you need to be careful to select the right equipment and the right people to run the equipment.

If you decide you want the ability to broadcast LIVE then you have several options.

A satellite up link (which I believe is too expensive and outdated), point to point fiber, and smart cloud internet technology (which I plan to discuss in another article, as I feel this is the best method to deliver a live feed).

Assembling a TV channel is a methodical process of combining several factors. As you can see from this article, the process starts by making solid decisions and then building upon those decisions to build your channel.

I always suggest using a professional and you can feel free to contact us if you would like our team to set up your channel the way you envision it.

We can save you a lot of time and money because we know what short cuts can be taken and which to avoid.

Mary

Starting a Satellite TV Channel: Costs You Need to Know!

Every day I get inquiries on how to start a satellite TV channel. I have consulted with hundreds, if not thousands, of companies, religious organizations, and entertainment companies on this subject.

Having set up satellite TV channels around the world I have learned the trends and styles as they have evolved over the last decade.

Although satellite-TV is still very popular it will soon be overtaken in the next decade or two by Internet TV.

I often get inquiries for me to send a complete equipment list for a satellite television channel.

However, it is not that simple and we do not provide a full equipment list unless they are one of our consulting clients.

There are several different configurations when it comes to satellite-TV. However, I will just discuss the basics to give you an idea of cost and equipment.

What is Video Server?

The video server, also known as a play out server, is the cornerstone of your satellite television station. The video server houses and holds your videos and creates playlists, it also allows for the display of graphics across the screen for example sports scores, stocks quotes, and other such graphics.

Next you need a live feed to the satellite uplink. Usually this is done with high-speed fiber or a dedicated high-speed Internet connection.

What takes place is the video signal comes out of the playout server and is encoded or compressed then it is sent to an IP box which is then sent over the Internet to the uplink station.

Of course there is much more to it than just this but these are the basics for starting a channel. When I refer to basics, I’m talking about only what it takes to get your video or live feed on satellite and not any production costs associated with that.

So you’re probably wondering about costs and these can vary quite a bit.

How Much Does It Cost?

Video servers can cost anywhere from $8000 all the way up to hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on what you want them to do.

Typically a set up can be done for an Internet TV channel for $1,899 to $299 a month using our turn-key system, but comparably, a satellite TV channel can cost around $50,000, sometimes less if your requirements are not as stringent.

However, your monthly satellite costs can be anywhere from $8000 a month all the way up to $30,000 a month depending on what satellite you’re broadcasting on.

There are several shortcuts to save you a tremendous amount of money compared to what I quoted above; you can buy our book which has a detailed section on satellite television how to start one.

If you look at our navigation bar you’ll see a link to our e-book, it is a very helpful tool for starting a cable or satellite TV channel.

Regardless of your strategies or goals for your new satellite TV channel, it’s always important to have a professional that can guide you through the process.

I have seen several companies that I have been brought in to consult with that had made so many mistakes and cost themselves so much money that they did not have to spend.

Companies such as ours save you so much money in the long run, trying to take shortcuts in this business is a bad idea.

For more reading click here.

Mary

Internet TV Explained: What You Need to Know?

Large media companies, TV networks, and cable and satellite conglomerates are beginning to crumble because of the internet.

It’s both been a blessing and a curse for these large corporations, but as internet speeds continue to increase and production costs continue to fall, their empire begins to crumble.

Many at the bottom are picking up the pieces and making their own entertainment channels.

What Does OTT Stand For?

It stands for

“Over the Top”

which means you do not have to go through a cable or satellite network to reach your audience (as you did in times past). You can bypass them and go directly to your audience via the internet.

So maybe the proper term is “OTT Solutions” but many still refer to it simply as “Internet TV”.

Well, in fact, that’s exactly what it is; delivering your channel through the internet to your audience.

So now that we know OTT is Internet TV, now what?

If you are looking to start your own OTT service then I think it’s important to first make a few choices upfront.

First, you have to decide what platform(s) you will want to use to reach your audience.

In today’s world, there are many choices, however the most popular is ROKU, Amazon FireTV, iPhone, Android, and Apple TV.

In fact, if you have an app on all these devices then you are better off because almost everyone has access to at-least one of those devices.

IPTV vs OTT

You may have also heard of IPTV, which stands for Internet Protocol Television. IPTV is a broader term that describes the greater picture of internet video distribution methods.

There are also a number of live video streaming services which focus specifically on live video broadcasts over the web and social media.

The key difference between these and full-service internet TV providers like www.tvstartup.com is that these service providers offer the full spectrum of live streaming, VOD, monetization, ads, and subscription options, and more, distributed on all of the popular platforms, not just the web and social.

After you choose your platform(s) then you need to decide how you will get on those platforms. Unless you are hiring the services of a turnkey OTT provider such as www.tvstartup.com (one of the oldest companies in the business) then you must start from scratch.

This is easier said than done because many components go into making your internet TV Network

The Essential Guide to Choosing the Right OTT Solution

You need several developers that can develop for both iPhone, Android, Roku, FireTV, Apple TV and more. You will then need to decide on who your CDN will be. If it is subscription based you will need to decide on how you will secure your streams and VOD content.

You will need either cloud hosting or dedicated servers to serve up your files for your apps and website. As you can see there are quite a few pieces and it can be quite expensive if you are doing it all yourself.

My suggestion is to use a service that already has all of the pieces fit together for you.

This will literally save you tens of thousands of dollars in development and hundreds of hours in “know how”. It is important that your OTT Solution fits the needs of our audience and working with professionals that have done this in the past will certainly help improve your bottom line over the long run.

So whether you call it an OTT solution or Internet TV it’s all the same, and if you are looking at getting into the market for the first time and want to make sure your video content reaches the right audiences it sure helps to know the different terms.

Click here to check out our Channel Manager. or you may click on the link below.

Mary

Starting an Online TV Station – How to Begin?

How To Start A Satellite Tv Channel

If you are looking to start an online TV station, you have come to the right place. Many people have unanswered questions when it comes to starting an online station. Many people just have no idea where to begin or how much money to budget for such a project.

In this article I will give you a few tips to help you understand the process so that you can begin.

The first thing you have to understand is what is an online TV station. It is a hyped up website with a video player and a play list.

For a online TV station to work you have to have a front end and a back end. Your front end is what the customer sees. It is the the look and feel that you want your online station to have. This is where your viewers and customers will experience your channel and the features you have programmed into it.

The back end is called “CMS” or “content management system”. This is where you manage the front end of your website. This is where you can upload and schedule your videos for playout. This is a very important part of your Internet TV website.

In fact, it is so important that your online station does not function without it.

The management of your online station is done from this CMS (admin panel). Typically, it acts as a back door to your website where you log in with your username and password.

It is important that before you start a TV station online that you write down how you want the site to function and all the capabilities you want it to have. All of these things need to be discussed before your site is built.

For example, if you want to charge a subscription fee, have a video on demand page for archived videos or whatever it is you want to do, these features must be built into the admin panel.

Your CMS or admin panel will give you the power to build playlists, upload archived videos, manage your written content and much more.

So how much does it cost to begin?

Well we specialize in these services. We have turn key packages starting at just $199/month. Our packages are complete with a complete Internet TV site with a custom design tailored just to your needs. The site comes complete with the CMS that you require to run your station.

You can use your own domain name as our sites are white labeled so your viewers have no idea we are the ones that provided the site. We also act as your CDN and can handle all of your bandwidth needs.

This way you can still keep your shared hosting account to run your station but the videos will play pulling the bandwidth from our servers.

You can feel free to view all of our packages by clicking here or feel free to browse our site for our other services.

Start a online TV station now instead of later. We have already done all the work for you! Yes, you can also broadcast live!

For more info see

Mary

Essential Equipment for Launching Your Internet TV Station

Start a Internet TV Station

I get this question I think more than any other question. “What is needed to start my Internet TV Station”?. Of course this can vary greatly from one project to another but in most cases you would be surprised how easy it is to start your own Internet TV station.

In most cases nothing is needed except your computer. For the sake of this article, however, let’s ignore the “production” side of things.

It is generally understood that you will be producing video or acquiring the rights to video content for your internet TV channel.

A traditional TV channel has what they call a “video server”.

This is where you can house your hundreds of hours of programming and schedule it for broadcasting.

This is where your play list is generated and played.

The video stream goes out the output of your video server and into an encoder and is sent via satellite or high speed private network to your cable operator.

Now for a traditional TV channel this is a necessary piece of equipment. T

he video server is also what would display onscreen graphics like sports scores, stock quotes, and other on-screen graphics.

This process is what gives a channel its look and feel.

So what does this have to do with Internet TV? Well for one an Internet TV channel can have this built into their site to where the play list is automated using a database and PHP.

How To Start A Satellite Tv Channel

A real TV station is far more demanding than an Internet station. So the process of managing video content and developing your play list can now be done with software built into your Internet TV site.

This process is controlled from the admin panel. Your admin panel or your “CMS” is where you can upload and manage your video content.

Scheduling videos hours, days, or months in advance to play at specific times or in a specific order.

The notion that many people have that you need thousands of dollars of equipment is an outdated thought process. Now do not misunderstand me.

There are some Internet TV stations that need a traditional video server. This is especially true for those that may be broadcasting sports online and need a real time application to overlay dynamically changing graphics (like sports scores, or stock quotes).

In these cases it would be advantageous to invest in such a server. However, for the average company broadcasting online such equipment is not needed.

So what equipment is really absolutely necessary to have your own Internet TV station? Well surprisingly the answer is NOTHING!.

Yes, everything these days can be controlled using web applications and this is great news for people and companies with much smaller budgets that want to start their own Internet TV station.

All of our Internet TV packages already come with everything programmed into your Internet TV site and there is no need for additional equipment. Our packages are turn key and come with the TV website (you can use your own domain), the admin panel, and the bandwidth needed.

Feel free to check out our Channel Manager by clicking here.

For more reading be sure to check out

Mary

How to Launch Your Own Powerful TV Channel Today?

If you or your company are thinking of making your own TV station then there are some preliminary steps you need to take to get started. You will need to begin by asking yourself some basic questions.

Questions to Ask When Starting A TV Channel

What type of station will this be? Entertainment, NEWS, religious?
What will be my distribution platform? Satellite, Cable, or Internet?
Will you be making your own video content? or will you purchase content? You might do some of both.
Will this be a 24/7 channel?
Will you need the ability to broadcast live? If you need the ability to broadcast live, will this be from inside your studio or outside your studio? This is important because if you are a news team and you want the ability to broadcast live then you would need to plan in advance for a way to deliver your live feed from the field. Then once the signal is delivered live to your studio it must still be put through a video server to add on-screen graphics overlays and sent out live to your satellite or cable operator.

All of the above steps may seem elementary, but you still need to take the time to write them down and discuss them with your team or board of directors.

As the saying goes, “the devil is in the details,” and your planning stages should be comprehensive.

Next you need to decide on a studio location. Or decide where you will be setting up your equipment. There is no need to get an extravagant office downtown. That is the beauty of TV, you only show what you want your viewers to see.

Many of my clients have setup studios in their basement or in their own homes to save money and time. If you are just re-broadcasting prerecorded content then you really do not need a very large space at all.

In fact, you could do it from a closet.

Develop your work flow. Once you have the space you need, then it is time to contemplate what type of equipment you will need.

3 Factors That You Need To Consider

If you are starting a news station then you need to take into consideration several elements.

One your filming element. What type of cameras do you need, how many cameras for multiple angles, what type of video server and graphics overlay you need (for stock quotes, scrolling headlines and so forth), virtual studio equipment and so on.

Two, you need to consider the sets you will be filming on. You need to decide how many sets, what type of news desks, lighting and background. You will also need to decide the type of image you want your channel to portray and choose the right sets to do so.

Three, you need to configure a live feed from the field and a live feed from your studio to the satellite up link or cable operator.

As you can see, putting together a TV station is a combination of several elements, too many to be listed in just this short article.

Another element you will need to consider is obtaining a carriage agreement with a satellite or cable operator. This in itself can be a task that can take up time and resources.

We offer services from consulting all the way up to full service turn key packages for your own TV station.

You can also buy our eBook to learn more about how the process works. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have regarding your new project.

Mary

How to Launch Your Web TV Channel with Ease?

Your Web TV Channel with Ease?

So you want to start your own web TV channel? You have an idea that you just know will work if you can get it out there. Well that is great, you have come to the right place.

As with most people you want to learn more of how to do this and get your project off the ground. You have an idea, you just need to know where to go with it.

In this article I will help you understand more about web TV and how it works.

The first thing you need to understand is that your own web TV channel is going to work similar to any typical website. You have a front end and you have a back end (also known as a CMS or admin panel).

The front end acts as your store front. It gives your site or Internet TV channel the look and feel you want. This is what your viewers see when they type in your domain name and visit your web TV channel.

The back end (CMS or Admin Panel) is what you use to control the front end of your web TV site. This is where you can control the text on the about us page or the home page. You can upload new graphics, banner ads and so forth.

It is the “behind the scenes” aspect of running your website.

In the world of web TV, this admin panel is also where you would upload your videos and arrange them in the order you want to create a “play list”.

This playlist is very important because this is what your viewers will see and the order of the videos that will play when they go to your site. There are also several different configurations for a play list.

You can have a play list that starts with video one, and plays through a complete list of videos. Or you can have more advanced features such as a “scheduled play list”. This type of playlist will play videos on a schedule so that anyone visiting your site will be watching the same thing, similar to a real TV channel.

In addition to just your front end and your back end admin panel, you will also need a CDN.

A CDN is simply a content Delivery Network. It is not possible to run a web TV channel on a shared hosting account. Video requires a large amount of bandwidth that any shared hosting account will not allow even if they advertise unlimited bandwidth (it will never include unlimited for a video channel).

A CDN will store your videos on their servers and stream them to your site. So that multiple people from anywhere in the world can see the video without buffering. Without a CDN, if more than one or two people try to view your video simultaneously, it will buffer and buffer or crash.

This is why a CDN is key to making it all work perfectly.

So how do you begin? Well, you should browse our site because we are a one stop solution for web TV. We have our own CDN and we have complete turn-key packages that allow you to begin your Internet TV site quickly.

Our packages will come with a custom design and the CMS and the CDN necessary to make your web TV channel come alive. All you need to provide is a domain name.

If you want us to get the domain name for you we can also do that. Feel free to browse our site-

tvstartup.com. Click on “Internet TV packages” to see what we offer.

Haven’t Started A Channel Yet?

Mary

Create Your Own TV Station: The Ultimate Guide!

Want to start your own internet TV station but are a little clueless on how to do it? Do you have a few ideas that you really want to build your station from? Or maybe you are a YouTuber with subscribers that you want to bring to your own branded TV site.

Well this article is for you. For years now it has been difficult to break into the main stream media because it has been guarded by conglomerate corporations that decide with board of directors what shows to produce and what not. They stick to their inner circle and people with real ideas like yourself get ignored.

But ohhhh how the times are changing and the tables are turning towards people like yourself.

What used to be impossible the internet has made likely and now you have a chance to really break in and create your own niche audience. In fact, did you know that as of 2017 more people are watching television through the internet than they are through cable and satellite subscriptions combined! That’s amazing!

Lets first define what internet TV is.

The obvious is the ability to deliver your video feed through websites to potential viewers, but that is just part of the picture. Devices such as Roku, Firetv Android TV, and Apple TV sit in tens of millions of homes worldwide. These devices sit on their living room television and millions watch them instead of watching cable TV.

Let us not forget the Internet TV apps that can be found on iPhone and Android and other mobile devices. Right now the audience is huge and the potential is even bigger.

So what do I do to get started? The first thing you need to understand is how Internet TV works. Many programmers and web developers think they understand this process.

But the truth is they are far from it. Even programmers with extensive background are under false impressions. Many believe that simply adding videos to a “shared hosting” account is great enough to start an Internet TV channel.

The components of an internet TV channel are as follows. You have a front end where your viewers engage with your content. The front end can be a Roku channel, a Fire TV Channel, an iPhone app, a website, an Android app, and so on. However, this is what your viewers see and how they perceive your channel.

You then have a back-end that can either be hardware in your office or a control panel online where you upload your video content, schedule your playlists and create Video on Demand categories (like Netflix). However, one component that is often overlooked but the most essential is called a CDN or Content Delivery Network.

This is typically a data center with hundreds of specially configured computers for video that can deliver your video to hundreds of thousands simultaneously. Without a CDN, only one or two people could watch your video at the same time without it crashing and buffering. Just imagine 20 people connected to your own personal computer to watch a video.

Your computer would struggle to deliver all that video. Your computer only has so much processing power. Now imagine on top of that you have those same 20 people trying to connect to your personal computer using your home internet connection. You could not upload that same video to all 20 people at the same time because your computer does not have enough power and your internet connection is not fast enough.

This is where a CDN comes in.

So all in all you need the power to both server hundreds of thousands at the same time as well as have professional that can develop your back-end and frond end TV channel for your viewers. This is what we do here at Tvstartup (we have our own CDN).

We have packages and templates that can get you up and running right away. This is the best kept secrete because your competition will literally spend hundreds of thousand of dollars to get the same thing we give you in a package deal for just a fraction of what it would take you to develop it yourself.

Check out our Internet TV page and look at our packages or checkout our eBook or contact us through our contact page.

For more reading see

Mary

Internet TV vs. Satellite TV: What You Need to Know?

What Are The Pros & Cons In Starting TV Channel?

For the past several decades, satellite and cable TV have dominated TV distribution, and just 20 years ago the thought of cable and satellite being challenged was science fiction. However, today things are changing and as of 2017 more people watch entertainment through Internet TV than Satellite and cable TV combined.

Furthermore, that does not mean satellite and cable have faded away, it just means internet TV is going to continue to grow stronger.

If you are thinking of starting a TV channel then here are some pros and cons to the different platforms:

Satellite TV for those inside the USA is not even a feasible choice for starting a TV station UNLESS you are trying to reach an audience that exists on Galaxy 19 satellite (mainly ethnic backgrounds) and even that can be a little shady these days as the cost does not justify the audience.

So where does starting a Satellite TV channel make sense?

It makes sense in those countries that do not have low cost internet and the prices of bandwidth are still expensive for consumers. Some countries in Africa, for example, may be a great fit for satellite TV because they have expensive internet fees and on satellite they have an existing audience for FTA beams.

This means that as soon as you are on that satellite platform you have millions of existing receiving dishes already pointing at that satellite. Obviously the more people watching that particular satellite the more it costs to have your own channel.

In these scenarios, satellite is still supreme as long as you can afford the monthly fees.

However, there are several companies now that have internet TV in Africa that are doing a better job at their encoding so they can still target consumers who have less data available due to higher costs.

On a mobile device you can get away with a nice picture even at a lower data rate of lets say 384 Kbps.

This means that you can still make it work in countries that are more internet challenged due to higher cost. Of course, in some countries Satellite is the number one choice to start your channel, but you can only do what your budget allows, and if your budget only allows for internet TV then you can still use some encoding techniques that allows for your slower internet consumers to still be able to view it.

So the pros of satellite are obvious if you know what you’re doing:

- Instant audience - No internet needed to watch it.

Cons

– Expensive to start and maintain

– Not a feasible option in more developed countries.

– Bound by geography (you only have so much of a footprint that you can receive on your channel)

Now lets talk about the pros of Internet TV, of which there are so many.

For the most part it is not geographically bound. Meaning that if you start a subscription channel for people that like skateboarding then anyone in the developed world can access that channel.

Compared to cable and satellite that is a huge advantage because your audience can be anywhere and does not have to be within a geographical foot print or have a cable attached to their house.

This means you can literally advertise your channel anywhere in the developed world that speaks the same language as your channel.

Another advantage is that now there are more people watching entertainment online than on cable or satellite. Although you do have to advertise your channel to make them aware of its existence.

Other advantages is you can style your channel anyhow you want, you can have VOD (Video on Demand) menus, multiple channels, and much more. Really the sky is the limit because you do not need expensive decoder boxes that have limited capabilities.

Obviously the other advantage is that it’s more cost effective to start and much less money monthly to maintain.

Pros

– Cost less to start.

– Cost less to maintain.

– Can give it the look and style you want

– Not bound by geographical limits.

Every company has their own different goals and their targeted audience so there is not one “shoe that fits all” per say. However if I was trying to mimic the “look and feel” of a satellite channel internationally using the internet, then I would choose the Android TV platform.

I am not speaking of the mobile phone version (although I would also have my channel on the phone as well) I am speaking of their TV box that connects to any TV.

These boxes are extremely popular and you can even customize your box to have your name branded on it both on the box and when the box is started on the TV screen. This means you can customize the entire box to give the exact user experience you want….kind of just like your own satellite decoder box except its for Internet TV.

What does this mean for your viewers? This means if you are packing just one channel or 1,000 channels you can self brand it so that they only get your channels on the box. Kind of like having a Direct, Dish, or Multichoice box where the viewers can only get what they want to see.

So altogether which is better, Internet TV or Satellite?

Well, of course the overall winner would be the internet, but given your goals and budget satellite still may be a viable option for you.

For more information on how to monetize your internet TV channels, check out our video on Why Internet TV on Why Internet TV Is the Next Big Thing In Streaming or contact us if you are looking to start your own Satellite TV or Internet TV network.

Mary

How to Make Money from my YouTube Channel?

Okay, so you have a popular YouTube channel and now you want to monetize it? Or more likely you have a YouTube channel that you’ve monetized and it ain’t paying JACK SQUAT! You are already aware that YouTube monetizing pays worse than a manufacturing laborer working in a third world country!

With this in mind you need to take things into your own hands, and as long as you keep playing the YouTube game your going to get horrible results when it comes to payday. Videos with views in the hundreds of thousands on YouTube only net a few dollars in ad revenue. That is absolutely horrible! So what do you do?

Well there are several things you can do like get sponsors to sponsor your program on YouTube and sell your own products, but hey, you already know this! And that is so time consuming! Come on, we don’t have time to make videos and run a marketing department! So what can you do?

Having your own self branded platform on the internet is 100 x better. I am not just pulling that number out of my hat, I mean it. You will make hundreds of times more money for your viewers having your own platform than you would on YouTube. This means even if you only get a fraction of your audience to follow you over to your new channel you will still make enough money to justify being a video content producer!

Today there are so many platforms that can be monetized. Roku, Apple TV, Android TV, iPhone TV apps, Android TV apps, Amazon Fire TV and more. These platforms are available to everyone watching your YouTube content and asking them to check you out on your other channels will gain immediate viewers. Plus, you will control the push notifications and subscriber list yourself, and not a third party like YouTube who can cancel your channel or pull the rug out from under you at any given moment.

So how exactly do you monetize these channels? Assuming you have made the jump off YouTube to create your own apps and channels (we can give you turnkey packages to create your own online network) you can monetize using a third party advertising company. We have partnered with digital advertisers that will inject advertising into your video stream or VOD videos and get you paid every time someone sees it.

Plus, instead of receiving only a tiny percentage of the revenue from YouTube, you now get the majority of it yourself. The technical details can be a little much to write, BUT the basics are these digital ad companies already have inventories of sold advertising ready to be inserted into your stream. The larger your audience, the bigger your monthly checks.

You only have to concentrate on getting viewers and the money will be there! This is a huge help for those that just don’t have the personnel to go out selling their own ads and managing their own marketing team.

What’s great about this method is that it not only works for your streams but it also works for your VOD content.

Your content will then be injected with pre-roll ads and mid-roll ads. So even while you’re sleeping and people are watching your videos, it’s generating income for you. If you want to make the jump from YouTube to your own online TV network and start earning then contact us and we can set you up with one of our turn key packages.

Download our Free eBook on how to start your own Internet TV station to learn more now.

Mary

How to Stream and Publish Your Live Event for Maximum Reach?

Broadcasting your live event or live stream to the world is now done through an array of platforms. You have your own platform (your app, Roku channel, FireTV, and your website) plus you have a growing array of video audiences through your social media platforms, YouTube and more.

This can cause quite a problem if you’re broadcasting a live event or live stream and want to publish your video to all your platforms simultaneously.

Before pushing publish you would need to have software that could handle multiple publishing points, but more specifically you would need to have bandwidth to accommodate all of those live broadcasts. Let’s say your live stream is 4Mbps and you’re publishing to your own app plus YouTube and Facebook.

You see that would take 12 Mbps of upload speed at the minimum. Not a big deal if you are on fiber, but if you add more platforms you will see you will begin to eat up your upload bandwidth.

The solution is obviously if your CDN can do a Push-Publish. Simply meaning you send your video feed once and then your CDN takes that feed and sends it to all of your publishing points.

Meaning you have one upload that delivers to all your platforms. This makes it simpler for you technically on your end and much less bandwidth.

Now that 12 – 20 Mbps upload only needs to be a 4Mbps upload. However, that is just one aspect of push publishing the other aspect is transcoding for all the different devices and screen sizes. You need the ability to transcode to both 1080p, 720p, 480p, 360p and deliver at the different bit rates best for each device.

Depending on your level of service needs, we can help you do all of your publishing needs. We create and develop video apps for Roku, Amazon FireTV, iOS, Apple TV, Android and Android TV. We can Push Publish your stream up to our CDN and deliver out to all of your social media platforms, your apps and website.

To be in the world of OTT (what I call Internet TV) you need an array of tools at your belt.

It is more and more difficult to handle on your own. We have turn key packages and templates we have created for Roku, FireTV, iPhone, Android and more.

You can develop your own custom apps or use our already existing templates to get your project up and running. Use as much or as little of our services as you need.

Download our Free eBook on how to start your own Internet TV station now to learn more! or you may click on the link below!

Mary

How to Broadcast Live on Your Website?

In today’s digital era, one of the most effective ways to be in touch with your audience is by live streaming!

The broadcasting of live events from your website can be done if you are hosting a webinar, advertising a product launch, or broadcasting live news from an event, which reaches site visitors directly without going through third-party platforms.

Below are the steps to make the experience of your live streaming event unforgettable for your audience.

Why Broadcast Live on Your Website?

Streaming live on your website has several benefits:

Full Control Over Content: Unlike social media platforms, you control the presentation, branding, and messaging on your website.
Audience Engagement: Drive traffic to your website, where visitors can explore additional content or services.
Monetization Opportunities: Leverage ads, sponsorships, or pay-per-view options directly on your platform.
Brand Building: Enhance your brand’s credibility by hosting professional and seamless live streams.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the steps to broadcast live on your website.

Step 1: Plan Your Live Broadcast

Preparation is key to a successful live stream. Start by defining your goals:

What is the purpose of your live stream? (e.g., tutorial, event coverage, or Q&A session)
Who is your target audience?
What key messages or takeaways do you want to deliver?

Create a script or outline to ensure you cover all essential points while leaving room for spontaneous engagement.

Step 2: Choose the Right Tools

You’ll need the right equipment and software to produce a high-quality live stream. Here’s what to consider:

Equipment

Camera: Use a DSLR, webcam, or smartphone with HD capabilities.
Microphone: Invest in a high-quality microphone for clear audio.
Lighting: Ensure proper lighting for a professional appearance.
Stable Internet Connection: Use a high-speed connection to avoid buffering issues.

Software

Streaming Software: Tools like OBS Studio, StreamYard, or Wirecast allow you to encode your stream and add graphics or overlays.
Embedding Platform: Services like Vimeo, YouTube Live, and Wowza offer embedding options for your website.

Step 3: Set Up Your Website for Live Streaming

Embed a Video Player

Choose a streaming service that provides an embeddable video player. Platforms like Vimeo and YouTube generate embed codes for live videos. Copy this code and paste it into your website’s HTML or designated content area.

Create a Dedicated Page

Design a dedicated page or section on your website for the live stream. Include:

A compelling headline
A description of the event
A live chat feature for audience interaction
Links to related content and resources

Test Your Setup

Before going live, run a test broadcast to check video quality, audio clarity, and stream latency. Fix any technical issues to ensure a seamless experience.

Step 4: Promote Your Live Broadcast

Build excitement around your live stream by promoting it through various channels:

Email Campaigns: Send invitations to your mailing list with event details and a link to the live stream page.
Social Media: Post teasers, countdowns, and reminders on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Blog Posts: Write a pre-event blog highlighting what viewers can expect.

SEO Optimization: Optimize your live stream page with relevant keywords to rank higher on search engines.

Step 5: Go Live!

On the day of your event, follow these best practices:

Engage Your Audience: Welcome viewers, encourage questions, and interact with comments.
Stick to Your Schedule: Respect viewers’ time by starting and ending on time.
Monitor Quality: Assign a team member to monitor the stream and address any technical issues promptly.

Step 6: Follow Up Post-Broadcast

Once your live stream concludes, the work isn’t over. Follow up to maximize its impact:

Upload the Replay: Make the recording available on your website for those who missed it.
Share Highlights: Post key moments on social media to drive additional traffic.
Gather Feedback: Ask viewers for feedback to improve future broadcasts.
Analyze Performance: Use analytics tools to track views, engagement, and conversion rates.

Conclusion

Broadcasting live on your website is a powerful way to connect with your audience and achieve your goals.

With proper planning, the right tools, and effective promotion, you can deliver a live streaming experience that captivates and converts.

Want to take your live streaming to the next level?

TVStartup provides the expertise and tools to make your broadcasts professional and profitable. Start building your TV Channel Now!

Mary

How to Choose the Best Encoder Settings for Live Broadcasting?

Live streaming is exploding in popularity and as it explodes businesses like yours can take advantage of increasing their brand awareness and engaging with audiences around the globe.

However, if your video does not look good then your company does not look good. This is why it is important to understand the best encoding settings and practices.

In fact, there was a study that showed 62 percent of viewers will have a more negative opinion of a company if the video is poor quality tech.co.

This makes it extremely important that you learn to utilize the best encoding settings and practices. In this article we will focus more on improving the video quality through encoding.

Broadcasting Live is Critical to Businesses

Nowadays, businesses are broadcasting live for quite an array of different uses. A great example is how Over The Top broadcasting is replacing traditional cable TV with online video content. The content is accessible anywhere to viewers with laptops, tablets and phones.

Today, broadcasters are no longer confined to geographical limitations set by cable and satellite companies that can not reach outside certain geographical limitations. Many broadcasters are now monetizing their content, through charging subscriptions or inserting digital advertising.

Businesses use live streaming for marketing, training, product launches, concerts, and live events, as well as schools, and many educational facilities world wide.

The sector is experiencing a growth rate of more than 20 percent per year and in 2017 more people watched video content online than satellite and cable TV combined.

So now that we understand the many uses of live broadcasting, let’s proceed to understand some of the best encoding settings.

Video Quality is Determined by your Encoding Settings

First, we have to understand the job of an encoder which is really in all reality to compress video. The video stream coming out the back of your camera may be 25 Mbps or higher. However, your internet connection upload speed may be only 5 Mbps.

You have to compress the video or it won’t fit through the internet. It will simply skip and buffer with horrible results.

However, the more you “compress” a streaming video the worse it will look. So the encoding dance is trying to maximize bandwidth while at the same time not destroying its quality.

Your bitrate controls the quality.

The higher the bit rate the better the quality. Bitrate is usually measured id Kbps or Mbps. Although bitrate and resolution are not the same settings, they are intertwined. That is because the higher the resolution, the more bitrate it requires to display it correctly without distortion.

So if you choose a high resolution but a low bitrate then your video quality will suffer.

Bitrates and Resolutions

Below are some bitrates and resolutions that could help with your live broadcast.

3840 x 2160 — 4K, recommended bitrate = 25 Mbps (not recommended for live streaming)
1920 x 1080 — 1080p, recommended bitrate = 4-6 Mbps
1280 x 720 — 720p, recommended bitrate = 3 – 5 Mbps
854 x 480 — 480p, recommended bitrate = 1.5 – 3 Mbps
640 x 360 — AKA 360p, recommended bitrate = 500Kbps – 1 Mbps
426 x 240 pixels — Also known as 240p, recommended bitrate = 256 kbps

Please also understand that even if your upload speed is high and that you can accommodate those broadcast (upload) speeds does not mean your viewers internet speed can view it. So take into consideration your audience.

If your audience is mostly in developed countries then you should be fine. However, if you are broadcasting to say African countries then you should take into account their lower speeds.

Multi-Bitrate vs Single

Multi-Bitrate can adjust to a viewers connection speed. This is done by encoding two different versions of the stream, a lower quality and a higher quality. Your encoder then sends both the streams to your video streaming platform (CDN) simultaneously.

The video player will adjust accordingly by detecting the internet speed of the viewer and giving them the best quality stream for their connection speed.

To use this, your encoder software must be able to encode different versions of your stream.

These different versions of the stream are sent to the video streaming platform at the same time.

When the viewer is viewing the stream the video player (if it is an adaptive bitrate video player) will select the stream that best suits the viewers internet speed.

Miscellaneous Video and Audio Settings for Encoding

Several other settings you need to know about will help give you a smooth broadcast.

Video Codec.

Your video codec should be H.264 and it can also be labeled as X264.

Audio. Audio should be in the AAC codec. This may not seem as familiar as MP3 but it gives better quality at lower bitrates.

Your sample rate should be 44100Khz and the audio bitrate should match the video resolution:

360p or lower 64Kbp mono

480p and 720p at 128 kbps stereo.

1080p and better 256 kbps stereo.

Your keyframe interval should be 2 seconds.

How Fast of an Internet Upload Speed do I need for Live Broadcast?

Internet speed, also known as “Bandwidth” is determined by both the download speed and the upload speed. Obviously the more multi-bitrate or adaptive streams you have, the more bandwidth you need.

As you should know, most upload speeds are slower than download speeds.

Also, the “advertised” upload speed is usually much faster than the “average” upload speed that you will experience. So keep this in mind.

To figure out how fast your upload speed should be, use this formula:

Total required bandwidth = (The sum of all your video bitrates + The sum of all your audio bitrates).

For example, lets say you have:

854 x 480 resolution running at 500 kbps and the audio at 64Kbps

1280 x 720 at 3 Mbps and audio at 128Kbps

1980 x 1080 at 5 Mbps and audio at 128 kbps.

So for this your total bitrate is 8.5 Mbps and your sum of audio is 320 Kbps.

When we add these numbers together it means we have a total bitrate of 8.83 Mbps. You will want your upload speed to be at-least double this.

In conclusion, you should be able to take this information and stream it efficiently and effectively and give your company name the reputation it deserves.

We provide the software and video platform (plus turn key TV apps for Roku, iPhone, Android, Amazon Firetv, Smart TV and more). If you would like to sign up for our service,

Mary

Overcoming the Challenges of Streaming Live High Quality HD

Making sure your live video is of high quality is critical to your success. Thankfully, the increase in internet speeds and better encoding techniques and technology is making broadcasting live video simpler.

Here we will cover some of the primary concerns that you will encounter when trying to broadcast your live stream. We will look at the top 4 challenges you will face when broadcasting live HD video.

Each year the number of internet users grows.

Last year, 81 % of viewers viewed more live video content than the year before. So making sure that your business has high quality video is crucial to get them hooked onto your content.

Why is broadcasting in high quality challenging?

4 Reasons Why Video Quality Can Suffer

4 Reasons Why Video Quality Can Suffer & Buffering Can Interfere With Your Broadcast
Obviously this is not an exhaustive list of everything that can go wrong but these are the most common reasons.

1. Slow Connection – Slow Upload Speed

This reason speaks for itself. If your upload speed is to slow then obviously you can not get your content to the CDN in a smooth manner. This can cause all kinds of issues including the video dropping, buffering and many more problems.

2. Viewer’s Connection Is To Slow – Not Enough Download Speed

You need to keep in mind your viewers’ connection speed. For example, if you are serving a rural community you can expect your viewers’ connection speed to be slower. Although this is becoming more rare in today’s world it can still occur.

Or if your viewer is on a mobile device with a poor connection. So even if you are doing everything right it does not guarantee your viewer will still be able to view it.

3. Encoder Is Overloading Your Computer

Many people do not realize that encoding can put a strain on your computer. The more demanding the encoding is, the more your live broadcast can suffer.

You need to make sure your computer has enough processing power and RAM to handle video processing.

Also, if you are doing a multi-bitrate or adaptive bit rate stream you will place a heavier burden on your computer. Some broadcasters want to broadcast live, record the stream, and do a multi bit rate stream all at the same time.

The bottom line is the more you do the more your machine may overload.

4. VBR May Cause You To Go Over The Max Bitrate

This does not occur as often as some people do not use VBR (Variable Bit Rate). Variable bitrate is a technique that increases and decreases the video size (bitrate) depending on how much action is going on in each frame.

This allows for higher quality video at lower bitrates. However, it can also have the opposite effect and cause you to exceed your connection speed for short bursts of time causing dropped frames. You may be better off keeping a constant lower bitrate.

5 Steps for Streaming Live HD Video

1. Your Internet Speed

Make sure you know your upload speed. This is critical because a slow upload speed can ruin your broadcast. Take into account all of your audio and video streams (including multi-bitrate) and add them up.

Make sure your internet speed is at-least double your sum total of all your audio and video streams.

Here are a couple of techniques to boost your speed:

Using Ethernet is faster than WIFI

Turn off all devices connected to the same internet connection
Turn off any applications on your computer that are connected to the internet.

2. Choose The Right Encoder

Choose an encoder that meets your needs. Make sure your encoder is compatible with your CDN (or your video platform provider).

If you are using tvstartup.com to broadcast then any encoder that supports RTMP will work. TVStartup.com offers turnkey solutions to get you started, including turnkey solutions for TV apps on iPhone, Roku, Android, Android TV and more.

3. Best Encoder Settings for Live Broadcast in HD

Video Settings

codec: h.264
Key-frame: 2 Seconds

Video Resolution Settings

426 x 240 pixels (240p)
640 x 360 (360p, Low Definition)
854 x 480 (480p, Standard Definition)
1280 x 720 (720p HD)
1920 x 1080 (1080p, or Full HD)
3840 x 2160 (4K or Ultra HD)

Bitrate settings
Bitrates of all different ranges are quite fine for live broadcast.

Audio

4. Audio Should Be The AAC Codec.

This may not seem as familiar as MP3 but it gives better quality at lower bitrates.

Your sample rate should be 44100Khz and the audio bitrate should match the video resolution:

360p or lower 64Kbp mono

480p and 720p 128 kbps stereo.

1080p and better 256 Kbps stereo.

5. Make Sure You Have The Right CDN

A “CDN” also known as a “Content Delivery Network” also known as a “Video Platform” is critical to the success of your live broadcast or IPTV channel. A CDN allows for hundreds, even thousands of viewers to watch your live broadcast simultaneously.

Without a CDN you could only serve a few simultaneous viewers before your server would crash. A great CDN will have fantastic DNS load balancing (Balancing the requests for your channel efficiently making video load times faster) and will be able to accommodate large audiences with ease.

You also want a CDN that can understand the client side of things. A CDN that knows TV apps like ROKU, iPhone, Android, Amazon FireTV, Android TV, Smart TV’s and more.

TvStartup.com offers turnkey packages including Internet TV channels and apps as well as their large CDN.

Mary

What You Need to Know About Roku Channel Development Costs?

Roku Device

If you’re reading this, you already know that Roku is one of the most popular internet TV streaming devices, with over 70 million monthly active users worldwide (as of January 2023 per Roku’s press release).

Tens of millions of people tune in daily on their Roku devices or Smart TVs, and having your own Roku app there can lift your brand significantly.

Roku is a robust platform that allows you to easily access thousands of streaming channels, including paid and free options.

In addition, you can find live sports, news, movies, music, TV shows, and more on the device. With so much content available for viewers, it’s no wonder that Roku has become the leading streaming platform.

Roku offers users access to programs, films, and series in various languages.

With up to 20,000 channels available, Roku users have more opportunities than ever to find the perfect programs for them. While this leaves many options for viewers, it also creates a great opportunity for channel owners.

Compare this to YouTube’s 50 million channels….that means there is a lot less competition in your space. This makes Roku the device of choice for those looking to take advantage of the platform’s visibility and be seen by many viewers.

If you are looking to establish your channel and monetize video content, having a Roku channel on its platform should be at the top of your list of places to be to reach your intended audience.

What does a Roku developer do?

With Roku, developers have various options to set up their channels. The Development Application Installation Software allows them to install or “sideload” the channel’s software onto Roku devices for testing and validation before they submit it for publishing. This is invaluable in ensuring that all necessary checks are completed before releasing the application into the public domain.

Roku developers also have access to a wide range of tools and resources, including SDKs, APIs, and programming languages, allowing them to develop their channel’s features. Developers can use the Roku Development Kit (RDK) to create complex user interfaces with graphics capabilities and powerful audio/video streaming technologies.

Additionally, Roku provides comprehensive documentation and support to help developers create the best possible experience for their viewers. When developing a Roku channel, developers need to ensure it is secure and compliant with Roku’s guidelines.

This is important to ensure the safety of viewers who use the channel and maintain a high quality of service.

What programming language does Roku use?

The Roku SDK streamlines the development process and simplifies it using BrightScript, its proprietary software. This enables the platform to offer a comprehensive set of services for users.

Roku App Development

With the help of Roku’s built-in Developer Program—Roku Direct Publisher—you can easily create your channel. You don’t need any coding knowledge or special software; just create an account in Roku’s Developer Portal and fill out some simple information about your channel (like name, description, logo etc.) to publish it.

Although this may be considered a DIY option, its features may not be as comprehensive, and you might need additional solutions for your streaming, such as hosting services, Content Delivery Network (CDN), live streaming solutions, and dashboard tools with the playlist-building capability to broadcast successfully.

Plus, this is just to publish your video content to just Roku devices; if you want to be on other platforms, you will need other services.

Before diving right into the development costs of a Roku app when creating your channel, we first have to understand the different channels available on Roku.

First, you have the standard linear channel that acts just like a traditional TV channel. This Roku channel is usually broadcast according to a schedule and has no VOD content. These are the least expensive Roku channels to make, with fewer costs than more advanced apps.

However, remember that if you are broadcasting a schedule on Roku, you still need a video playout machine or service to schedule and play your videos onto your Roku app.

Next, you have a Netflix-style Roku app that is centered around Video On Demand content. These apps usually contain categories of VOD content that displays to your viewers. The viewers then select the category and the video they want to play. These apps are great for displaying archived content as well. These apps are a little more expensive but still not too hefty.

Keep in mind that your monthly cost for your Roku app is going to depend on the video platform company you choose to manage it. You cannot be on Roku without a video platform to manage VOD categories (dynamic categories), create playlists, and schedule video playlists.

As a professional Roku development service, TVStartup has produced turn-key app templates for Roku which come with built-in support for all the common features most channel owners are looking for.

These include built-in integrations for live streaming and 24/7 scheduled programming across multiple channels, as well as Video On Demand (VOD) categories, subscriptions, and pay-per-view for charging viewers to access your content and are ready-made to accept automatic ad insertion so you can earn money from ad revenue on your channel.

This helps your viewers get access to everything they’re looking for on your channel, with your live channels right at the top and your video-on-demand library below.

TvStartup’s service also combines storage to host the videos, a CDN to deliver the videos smoothly to viewers, and an easy-to-use online dashboard for channel owners to manage their channels from one spot. So how much do these apps cost? For a turn-key app template branded for your channel, the cost is usually less than $2000 upfront.

Anywhere from $200 to $500 per month for a video platform you will use to manage it, which will include built-in coverage to support the uptime of your channel and fixing any issues or making updates to your channel over time.

Suppose you’re building a do-it-yourself channel style with a direct publisher and several third-party services to host, deliver and manage your videos.

In that case, you might encounter costs of $500 to $3000 per month in combined service charges from these third-party providers, along with a fair bit of manual maintenance to keep your channel running properly, publish new content, and fix any issues that arise.

Finally, we have what you can consider “custom” Roku app development. This is where you have a custom design

with custom functionalities. These apps are the most expensive because they have not been created yet. A custom app can cost you anywhere from $7500 and go up considerably depending on your requirements.

Roku app development costs depend on you and what your vision for your channel is. Roku has a programming language called BrightScript. This has given Roku devices some unique abilities, however, having its language has a drawback in that developers have to learn new skills when creating Roku channels.

So this has caused the price to go up a bit.

The cost for maintenance and hosting of your app also has to be factored in. Depending on the complexity, you will have to pay a developer or team of developers to maintain your channel on an ongoing basis.

Also, you should consider other expenses related to streaming, such as media encoding and storage costs.

Finally, as with any streaming service, the cost of content delivery and advertising insertion can add up if not managed correctly.

Make sure that when pricing out a channel development project, you factor in all these additional costs so that you can budget accordingly.

Finally, working with experienced Roku developers who specialize in creating Roku channels is essential as they understand how best to build an immersive experience on devices like the TV while staying within your budget.

Final Thoughts

Starting a Roku channel can be intimidating due to all of the technical requirements and costs. However, there is a much simpler way to expand your brand and reach a broader audience than ever.

Partnering with the right OTT service provider allows you to make your original content available through the world’s largest streaming device in one integration.

Integration simplifies the process and can improve your Pay Per View (PPV), VOD, FAST, and AVOD offerings by eliminating the middleman for greater potential revenue gains. Roku development has never been easier!

If you are looking for a company that can both create and manage your Roku apps, you should check out tvstartup.com, as they are an OTT Provider that provides a done-for-you solution vs. a DIY one.

Plus, with their dashboard, you are not stuck with one platform like you would be with Roku direct publisher; you can simultaneously publish to Fire TV, Apple TV, your website, and mobile app platforms.

You will have all the tools you need to get back to doing what you do best, creating great video content. They have turnkey packages that can get you started right away. You can often get started for much less than the prices stated above.

Mary

Why Amazon’s Fire TV Is Outpacing Roku’s Growth?

Fire TV Growing

Just when you thought Roku was breaking all the records, FireTV comes out of nowhere to take the lead. FireTV users are growing faster than Roku users, according to Amazon’s fourth quarter results. Amazon’s success is a great example of how its ecosystem drives customer loyalty.

Because of the size of Amazon its no wonder they are starting to outpace all other streaming TV devices.

To be honest, there really aren’t many reasons for a consumer to choose a Fire TV device over a Roku.

Roku has the edge here because its platform-agnostic approach means it supports a larger array of services and doesn’t play favorites with any of them.

However, for online broadcasters this competition between FireTV, Roku and other streaming devices is nothing but good news.

As these giants compete for market space, the indirect result is that more and more consumers are canceling their cable and satellite subscriptions and turning to connected TV devices such as FireTV, Roku and Apple TV.

So for the record, YES Amazon FireTV is growing at a faster rate than Roku and other devices….However, that does not mean Roku is shrinking. On the other hand, that is just a testament to the times we live in.

In fact, all connected TV platforms are growing with no signs of letting up any time soon. According to Convivas customer base Apple TV saw a 709% growth in viewing hours in 2018.

Overall viewing hours of internet-delivered video across mobile, connected TV’s and desktop screens grew by 114% in 2018 with Android being the leader for viewing hours on mobile devices. The future for broadcasters and content producers is clearly internet TV delivered through various connected TV devices and Smart TV’s.

IT makes sense that if you want to distribute your channel to as many viewers as possible then your network needs to be on as many distribution platforms as you can (with FireTV and Roku leading the pack).

If you’re new to internet TV, then it can be a challenge to figuring out how to accomplish getting on all these different platforms. Our customers use our Channel Manager to both manage their online TV network (create and schedule playlists, broadcast live, VOD, Social Media broadcasting and more) and add distribution platforms such as FireTV, Roku, Apple TV, Samsung Smart TV and mobile devices.

Although FireTV is growing in active viewers they still lag behind Roku and Apple TV for average time per user spent streaming video content.

In other words, Roku, with fewer users, still has more viewing hours – probably mainly due to the fact that most of the content on Roku is Free non-subscription based (although there are plenty of subscription channels as well).

Amazon’s FireTV active user growth seems mainly because of their Prime Video service in which 95 million Americans have access too.

If you’re a Prime member and want to watch Prime Video the user experience is much better. So users who want to access and pay for premium content typically turn to FireTV.

However, FireTV (unlike Roku) is one of the very few connected TV devices that is both supported internationally as well as has an international following/viewership.

With more than 100 countries including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom (UK), Germany, Austria, Japan, India, and many many more.

This is why so many international broadcasters that want to reach audiences outside of the UK and USA pick the FireTV as their platform.

If you are thinking about owning….or already own an online TV network then your strategy for audience and viewership growth should be in line with viewer trends.

Today FireTV is a platform that you just can’t be without or your missing a large piece of the growing connected TV market/audience.

If you would like to get a subscription to our channel manager click the link below to learn more about it and start your own online TV network.

Mary

Creating a Roku Channel: Everything You Need to Know

Creating a Roku channel

If you are in the broadcasting business or want to get into the broadcasting business then creating your own Roku channel is paramount.

Creating a Roku channel is the quickest way to get your content in front of millions of people. Roku has sold over 50 million boxes and the number rises daily.

Roku also makes their own branded TVs with Roku built into it which makes them a real player in the Smart TV sector.

Let’s first talk about the different aspects of owning and operating your own Roku channel. Even if you have created your own Roku channel, you still need a way to manage it.

This includes creating video playlists, scheduling video playlists, managing VOD content and more.

Obviously you also need a reliable CDN to allow seamless delivery of your video to your audience without buffering.

In other words, you need a video platform that can do all your behind the scenes work so that your channel has a professional look and feel.

Once you have your video platform in place, you then need to decide on what you want your Roku channel to look and function like.

There are different styles of Roku apps. There are Roku apps that can deliver a “Netflix” type of feel and look. These apps typically order your content into categories and you assign videos to each category.

Categories like Action, Comedy, Adventure, etc…. can help you organize the content in a presentable way for your viewers.

You can create Roku channels that also deliver the look and feel of a “traditional” TV channel.

In other words, everything runs on a schedule. This means only what is scheduled is available for viewing, just like watching real TV (of course your video platform will need to have this ability). You create lists of videos and then schedule them to play. Next you have apps that are a combination of the two.

The Roku apps that you create can do both VOD and your traditional TV channels (playlists). Typically these Roku channels will have the TV channels at the top of the app and the VOD content down below it.

This allows your viewers to both watch live/pre-recorded (scheduled) content or browse your VOD content.

Last but not least is a custom Roku channel. This is where you design both the look and the functionality of your Roku channel. Roku uses a computer language called BrightScript. This language is unique only to Roku.

This means that unlike other computer languages that can be used to write programs for multiple industries, BrightScript is only for Roku devices. This means that the cost of custom development is higher because less developers understand and can write using the BrightScript language.

How much does it cost to create a Roku channel? Typically you have your upfront cost for “development” and then you have the monthly cost for your video platform.

If you are using a Roku app that has already been created by a video platform and used by existing customers (a template app) you can have your development costs significantly reduced (Less than $3000) and submit it to the Roku store.

However, custom apps can start at 7500 and go up to tens of thousands depending on what your requirements are. Your monthly cost will typically be 200 to 500 a month whether you have a custom app or not.

If you are looking for a turnkey solution that will provide Roku channel creation as well as a video platform, then check out tvstartup.com

Mary

Why Internet TV Is the Next Big Thing in Streaming?

Internet TV Is taking off like a rocket!

There’s no stopping it and for some that means big profits! 10 Years ago the thought of internet TV overtaking satellite and cable combined was a far fetched idea; today it is a reality.

The industry calls it “Cord cutting” – that is when a cable or satellite subscriber decides they no longer want to pay the monthly fees associated with their cable subscription.

Major pay-TV providers are reporting dramatic declines in subscription services, and some of the losses were more than double what Wall Street analysts expected (according to

Stocks for major TV providers have also taken a nose dive.

The news may be bleak for pay-TV services, but for streaming services, times couldn’t be better.

Netflix, Hulu and many smaller internet-based streaming services have seen incredible gains.

Many people in the US now do not use cable TV.

They chose to end it.

In 2018 more than 33 million Americans are now considered cord cutters. This is a huge revenue loss for cable and satellite TV.

Among young adults, six out of ten use online streaming to watch TV (2017).

Many thought live sports would keep cable subscribers, but that’s not true anymore.

Now, with ESPN and other sports services online, there is little to hold subscribers” loyalties.

What does this mean? This means the power now lies with those that can create content. No longer do large corporations dictate what the masses will watch.

Anyone with a creative mind, a camera, and their own online TV network can compete with the big boys.

As the cable market crumbles, it will be small businesses and video entrepreneurs who pick up the pieces and build profitable

streaming models.

Here’s the big picture: when you have a mass decline in one area of a business then it is only logical you will have a large increase in another.

In other words, the undoing of the cable and satellite industry is a HUGE potential for those that can capitalize on it NOW.

Today, it’s more like the wild west of internet TV and when the dust settles, those that fought for viewership will be the next leaders in content and viewership.

In fact, Internet TV, also called OTT, is expected to climb to a 30.6 Billion dollar revenue by 2022

(study done by PricewaterhouseCoopers )

Similar growth is expected internationally as high-speed internet becomes more available in developing countries. Overall, internet TV is one of the fastest growing segments on the planet and making an investment into Internet TV is not only a wise decision but a logical one.

More and more baby boomers are following in the footsteps of millennials and transitioning to a subscription video service via the internet.

And to be fair, there are more viewers than the statistics show; that’s because most stats don’t account for shared accounts.

In the past, older adults might of watched one or two of these video services occasionally with a friend or relative, but today it’s becoming a part of their regular entertainment diets,” said Chris Bendsten, senior forecasting analyst at eMarketer.

With more than 250 million smart TVs sold monthly around the world, and connected TV devices (With just Roku and Firetv alone accounting for more than 90 million viewers) its becoming easier to watch both live TV and on-demand video.

The online video landscape is growing as a whole because of the availability of so much original content from an array of producers who in times past would not of had the opportunity to distribute their original video content.

“Consumers don’t seem to be price sensitive to adding multiple services because they don’t want to be the only one in their family or friend group that hasn’t seen the latest hit original show, no matter which platform it’s on,” Bendtsen said.

Overall, you have more younger and older adults tuning in to internet TV with the newer generation almost completely detached from cable. You have a crumbling infrastructure of traditional cable and satellite TV operators, and a growing revenue for internet TV operators.

All of these factors blowing in the wind only SPELLS one thing for content creators; OPPORTUNITY.

Haven’t started your TV channel yet?

Mary

How to Monetize Your Internet TV Network for Long-Term Success?

Credibility and Status = Unmeasurable Monetization

I will start with the least known monetization benefits of having your own Internet TV network. Let’s talk about the most hidden monetization effect.

The fact that you have an Internet TV network on platforms such as ROKU, Amazon FireTV, iPhone, Apple TV etc… gives you and your organization “credibility” and “status”. Few people on this planet can boast they have their own network.

The benefit of this alone is hard to measure because it’s not always obvious that was the reason someone decided to do business with your company.

Whenever people are deciding to do business with your business, deciding if your church is the right church for them, deciding to list their house with your real estate company……many things weigh into those decisions including how they feel about the credibility and status of your organization.

So keep in mind that just having your Online Network alone can generate in-direct revenue.

Digital Ad Injection

AKA Dynamic Ad Insertion is something that is new to the digital landscape. When I say “new” I do not mean that it started yesterday, but that the technology is not yet perfected. It is an ongoing process to evolve and perfect. However, it is far enough a long that we can do two critical steps;

Inject paid advertisers adverts
Track the number of viewers per ad

Both of these steps allow a total to be calculated monthly so that your channel can get a check every month. This makes your goal obvious: Create or obtain great content people want to see and promote it.

In other words, build your content and viewership. That is, of course, the name of the game for any TV network, but this is definitely the core concept of success when it comes to getting big advertising checks.

To thrive in the Internet TV world you the Content Owner, TV Broadcaster and/or OTT Operator, need to optimize ad revenues and make the most of the latest shifts in technology that are available today in order to increase monetization potential.

This is why you should require a platform that can precisely target the right audience and accurately insert relevant ads across connected TV channels and multiple screens.

The components of the ad injection are:

1. Dynamic Ad Insertion

Our solutions make sure that the right ad is ready to play every time there is an ad break and can seamlessly scale to television-sized audiences.

2. Multiple Triggers

you the broadcaster can trigger the ads, or you can pick one of our algorithms that automatically inserts them for maximum revenue potential (example 16 mins of ad breaks per hour)

3. Guaranteed Ad views

Even if the stream is paused the ad is not skipped when the stream resumes. All of these components work together to create a nice revenue stream for your channel.

4. Subscription Model

The obvious money maker for online TV is charging a subscription fee. This is a big money maker especially if you have a lot of content.

Netflix is making BILLIONS (not millions) from this subscription based method. However, of course they have a ton of content so this subscription model makes sense for them. You can pay for a day, month, quarterly or annually. You can offer free trials and a host of other options to make revenue easier to generate.

For smaller broadcasters, subscriptions make a lot of sense if your audience is niche. For example, if you specialize in a particular content geared to a language other than English or other small niches like ball room dancing etc….

Subscriptions excel in these type of situations because the audience is eager to obtain content that is not catered to in today’s mass media. Another model that works well is to charge a subscription fee for an ad-free version of your network. This is a common “up-sell” for many networks. This allows you to leverage both ads and subscriptions.

YouTube Monetization

First and foremost, the #1 reason our customers want to acquire their own internet TV network is so that it can be “self branded”.

In other words, it has nothing to do with YouTube (Facebook or any other 3rd party) and when promoting your channel this keeps your network looking professional. However, there are more critical reasons why it’s important to have your own network and not rely on 3rd parties such as “YouTube”.

For the most part it is difficult to make money off of your YouTube videos. That does NOT mean that there are no YouTubers making good money. There are some, but for the majority it is a known fact that channel creators (even those with hundreds of thousands even millions of views) struggle to make even a hundred dollars in a month. YouTube is not in the business for the benefit of the content creators but rather for the benefit of themselves.
Youtube now “censors” content they don’t like. This means you are no longer in control of your network. This is important to understand because they censor content they deem “controversial”. However they define what “controversial” is. They are now changing algorithms to hide videos and NOT notifying your subscribers (on new video posts and live broadcasts) for groups that have opposing political positions of YouTube (owned by google) shareholders.
YouTube has new rules that make it difficult for new channels to monetize any content. The fact is, you have absolutely no control over your subscriber base when you’re on YouTube. You don’t have their names, you don’t have their email addresses, you can’t take them to another platform.

That’s a huge issue. This means you can’t run email campaigns or promos, and that YouTube could shut your channel down (as they are known to do without giving a reason) without a given notice. YouTube is built to make YouTube money and not to make the broadcaster money.

In fact, it’s built to enslave you to their system. Building a YouTube audience is a waste of time and money unless it is to promote your other platforms, which is where you make your real money.

YouTube may have some professional videos on their platform, but it is NOT a professional platform.

When you have your own online network you can make hundreds even thousands of times more money than you can on Youtube controlling your own advertising or subscriptions.

I am not saying YouTube does not have its place, but it is built with the idea for sharing videos and not monetizing them.

YouTube has its place and like I said before, there are some earning money on the platform. However, the majority of serious YouTubers earn next to nothing.

Plus at a moments notice YouTube can cancel, censor or demonetize your channel (or videos) so that your viewers can not find it in a search or a related video. Same thing is occurring with Facebook live broadcasts….You can NOT monetize them and you can be shut off for breaking one of many many rules they have.

Facebook and YouTube should only be used in order to support your main Independence channel. That is the purpose of using these social platforms, to SUPPORT your business not to use them AS YOUR business.

Insuring against a Facebook or YouTube decision they know longer like you, if your channel is independent they can’t SHUT you down. For further tips read How To Make Money From YouTube.

Mary

Internet TV Network Revenue: What You Need to Know?

When it comes to Internet TV 3 questions are common for beginners:

Can I make money with my network?
How do I make money?
How much can I make?

Answers:

Q1 – Yes
Q2. I am going to assume you are already familiar with “Monetization techniques” for internet TV (OTT)…if not click here to read about it. .
Q3. Well, that’s what this article is about…read on.

The most common way to monetize your online network is through DAI which stands for Dynamic Ad Insertion (and for the sake of this article I will mainly concentrate on this method). DAI allows advertisers to swap out creative ads in both linear, live or video-on-demand, content.

This means we can have viewers in different locations watching the same stream, but serve them with different ads.

Cost Per Thousand means how much is paid per 1000 impressions of an advertisement. This means your viewers have seen the ad 1000 times. This could mean that 100 viewers watched the ad 10 times in an evening or that 200 viewers watched the ad 5 times… and in most cases it does not mean that 1000 people had to see the ad. It’s impressions, or better yet, its views, not viewers.

Smart TV and connected TV”s CPM can be between $8 and $20.

Desktop between $2 and $6.

You will want to use DAI for your streams and your VOD’s.

Once you have that number, then use the formula below to calculate revenue:

Now, lets just make a simple scenario.

So that would be 300,000 X 15 divided by 1000 = $4,500 in DAI revenue.

Let me give you another example using the same CPM.

This means that in one hour you have 8 minutes of possible ad time. That would be 4 thirty second ads for each avail. This equates to 16 impressions per viewer per hour.

So now if you have a CPM of 15 dollars you can figure out what you made for that hour:

This of course varies depending on your fill rate of your avails but should give you an idea of the possibilities.

Keep in mind that this was referring to adding an insertion into a streaming channel (linear) but the same principal applies to VOD. Having pre-roll and mid-roll ads inserted dynamically into your VOD’s will increase your ad revenue greatly.

The longer each viewer watches and the more ad avails that are filled (per hour) then your math starts to add up because now your impressions are much larger.

Now back to our first example of 30,000 viewers tuning in for the month. Depending on how many impressions each viewer saw (how much time they spent watching your VOD’s and streaming channel) will indicate the actual revenue received. 30,000 viewers could equal $4,500 or it could equal $45,000 depending on all of those variables.

The longer each viewer watches and the more ad avails that are filled (per hour) then your math starts to add up because now your impressions are much larger.

Charging a monthly subscription is a common way to monetize your content.

Netflix is an example of how subscription services can really be a viable option.

Typical questions we get are “how much should I charge for my subscription network” ? The best answer I can give you is this. The more niche your network, the more you can charge.

In other words, the more targeted your audience, the higher you can price your monthly subscription.

Other questions such as; Are there other competitors competing for that same audience? Look at other niche networks,…what are they charging?

Let me give you some make believe samples of “extremer niche”:

A ball room dancing channe
A golf channel that focuses just on teaching golf techniques
Channels that cater to languages not commonly spoken in your home country

It can’t just be a standard channel targeting standard entertainment if you want to charge a subscription. The only exception to this is of course Netflix with has thousands of video titles to choose from.

You have to know your audience and as a channel owner/operator you are the best to know what you can charge and what you can not. To give you an idea I see our customers charging their viewers between 1.99/month on the low end and as high as $29.99/month on the high end. What’s great about subscriptions is you are monetizing all of your views the same….no matter if they spend one hour a month watching or 50 hours a month. You can predict your revenue and growth easily.

You can mix and match by providing a paid/premium version with out advertising and a free version of your channel with ads.

Mary

3 Surprising Benefits of Broadcasting Live on Social Media

Many broadcasters are hesitant to embrace social media due to ignorance of its huge potential. For these broadcasters, social media visibility is limited to random Facebook or Twitter posts announcing their upcoming programs.

However, many other broadcasters see its strength as a broadcasting power house and a medium for audience engagement.

1. Broadcasters using Social Media to Find New Voices and Expand Their Audience:

In certain fields, social media broadcasts will outpace more traditional media sources. For example, traditional news broadcasting may be overrun by live streams on social media platforms with the average person replacing the journalist with breaking news.

For example, Al Jazeera English has published its own online community named “The Stream”, which exploits the strength of social media to broadcast news in compelling ways. Stream accumulates discussions, opinions and social media posts from various platforms to reassemble significant stories of the day for better viewership.

Social media today is no longer just here to build personal relationships, it is used to influence the decisions of millions, build brands and expand a broadcasters reach. Engaging your audience is now just as important as reaching your audience and social media provides both.

Savy broadcasters know the power of a live broadcast is not only in achieving a larger audience and more engagement but also to expose their brand and encourage audience to engage their network on other platforms (Roku, FireTV etc…).

According to Richard Weaver, Principal at Weaver Injury Law Firm, “Branding yourself with a logo and a few articles is a good idea, but people want to see more from you, and this is where live streams can help. They offer rich, tangible content that’s highly desirable and a lot of fun to peruse, not to mention very informative.”

2. Live Streaming Gives a Sense of Urgency

With a live stream you can nudge people to act more swiftly than if they were watching something that was prerecorded. For businesses it can convert viewers into paying customers….

For those with their own online TV network a Live broadcast can be the preview and you can urge them to join you on your other platforms which can be monetized with ads.

3. Get Creative – Combining Social Media and Your Online Network

Some of our customers combine the power of Social Media broadcasts with their own network. For example, Creekbox is a small town online TV network that specializes in broadcasting high-school sports.

They were already successful in their own niche, but got a powerful boost when they began broadcasting their live high-school football games on social media.

Not only did their social media fans increase, but their Roku, FireTV, and mobile apps saw a significant audience increase as well due to their Facebook fans downloading their apps.

They use a tool in our Channel Manager called “re-streamer” which allows our customers to broadcast simultaneously to their own website/network, and Facebook, YouTube and Periscope.

Even though they are in a rural community with slower internet connection speeds they only have to send one live feed uploaded to our Channel Manager and we duplicate it automatically to their social media accounts reducing the need for video upload speeds.

Then, when they are done with their live broadcast, our auto-live recorder places the previous live video into their media library for use as a VOD or to be included in a scheduled playlist at a later time.

No matter which way you look at it, broadcasting live to social media has nothing but upsides with no real downsides.

As broadcasters get more and more creative with ways to expand and engage their audiences through live broadcasts its clear social media will be a part of their expansion for years to come.

If you would like to get a subscription to our Channel Manager so that you too can broadcast across social media, create and schedule playlists and much much more then click here to check it out.

Imagine being able to turn your video content into a steady source of income while connecting with millions of viewers worldwide.

Sounds like a dream, right?

For many video creators, the real challenge isn’t just making engaging content—it’s finding the right platform to monetize and grow their audience.

That’s where TVStartup comes in, offering a powerful solution that enables creators to distribute their content on popular streaming platforms like Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and more.

If you’re fed up with low visibility or not earning what you deserve from your content, it’s time to see how TVStartup can make a difference.

Mary

Roku Expansion Made Easy: Grow Your Online TV Network

Traditional TV is dying and the devices that are putting the nail in the coffin are small little boxes that connect to your living room TV set. Roku is a fiercely competitive little device that connects through WIFI to the internet and allows you to view video content on your TV, including content from YouTube and Netflix.

Besides the usual Netflix and YouTube, there are a few thousand other channels to choose from and with a viewing audience that is constantly expanding (well over 60 million), it has more viewers than most cable operators combined.

Roku provides your network with great potential and opportunity to reach new audiences. The opportunity to reach new audiences with your new Roku channel is not only exciting, but easier to do than ever before in history.

Roku’s most important metrics indicate a growing and healthy viewership.

In fact, streaming hours increased 68% in the fourth quarter of 2018 to over 7.3 billion. But Roku has moved past just promoting its streaming device that connects to your TV.

More viewers are now coming from licensed sources; specifically Roku’s operating system, which is one of the most popular among Smart TV operating systems among consumers.

Roku estimated that 25% of smart TVs sold in the first three quarters of 2018 came with Roku’s operating system pre-installed.

Roku’s expansion into the smart TV world is fantastic for broadcasters because Roku’s continuous exposure and growth is also growing online broadcasters’ audience base. Roku’s broad audience gives broadcasters in any niche an opportunity to reach a large audience and following.

That’s far more valuable to online network owners because advertisers are willing to pay a much higher rate for content viewed on a living room TV set versus watching on a mobile device.

The only Smart TV operating system with a greater market share is Samsung, however, even Roku is perusing deals with them as well.

Last year, Roku partnered with Samsung to enable Samsung Smart TV viewers to connect and stream content from their Roku Channel.

The ever-constant expansion of Roku is exactly why many of our customers choose to expand to Roku as part of their distribution platform. When our broadcasters choose to expand to Roku, we simply integrate it into their Channel Manager account.

Our Channel Manager is the core of any online TV network that we deploy for our customers. It allows our broadcasters to create and schedule playlists, create VOD categories and assign videos to each category (like Netflix) as well as broadcast live and automatically record your live broadcast for inclusion into your playlist or VOD library.

Expanding onto Roku is pretty easy if you have our channel manager and you can broadcast simultaneously to not only your Roku channel but any distribution platform that you have (Amazon FireTV, Apple TV, Samsung Smart TV, iPhone, your website and Android).

We also provide a tool so you can re-stream your live broadcast (or playlist) to social media simultaneously.

If you would like to get a subscription to our Channel Manager, click on the link below.

Mary

Massive Growth for Apple TV

Although FireTV leads the pack for active subscriber growth, Apple TV leads in another category: increase in streaming hours. Apple TV saw a 709% growth in viewing hours in 2018. That’s roughly 5 billion hours of video watching. These numbers are a tall tale sign that consumers are adopting new viewing habits as they ditch the old traditional cable and satellite TV and learn towards OTT.

Although this is an exceptional growth rate, Apple TV still lags behind Roku for total number of streaming hours (as stated, Apple leads in percentage of growth rate for streaming hours). However, this could change as competition heats up between connected TV companies.

Apple TV is considering building an Apple TV streaming stick which would be a cheaper version of their box. This would definitely fuel Apple’s connected TV growth rate and make apple TV available to consumers who are not willing to spend 150 dollars for the Apple TV box.

According to Apple, they are considering making a sub $100 stick to compete with the cheaper Roku and FireTv devices on the market today. Apple has long struggled in fourth place behind Roku, Chromecast and Amazon FireTV.

With Apple TV price tag of a $149 dollars and their competitors at $30 and $40 dollars you can see why Apple is shifting gears to make a cheaper version of their Apple TV. This is, of course, all based on early reports that Apple is considering a dongle-style streaming player.

As with all new product planning, it may never come to fruition even if Apple aggressively works on creating the device. However, just the fact that it is being talked about shows how serious Apple is about competing with the other connected TV devices.

Apple TV represents yet another opportunity for Internet TV network owners. Apple TV has a loyal fan base and having your network available to their viewing audience could boost your network’s viewing audience and ad revenue.

There’s a reason that top OTT companies like Netflix and Hulu are on every distribution platform available – simply because it increases their subscription base. For them, this formula is not rocket science; The more platforms – the more audience potential – which equals higher revenue potential. For online network owners (OTT operators) it’s the same formula to follow in their footsteps.

No need to reinvent the wheel here – we know it already works.

As competition heats up between streaming devices, one thing is for sure – more and more people will be canceling their satellite and cable subscriptions and adopting new viewing habits. No matter what genre Religious, Entertainment, Ethnic, business etc… connected TV is benefiting both broadcasters and audiences by connecting people to what they’re most interested in.

However, when analyzing social data around Roku and Apple TV, something becomes very clear: younger users are attracted to the lower price of the Roku devices, and although this is something Apple TV wants to enter the market to compete with, older users over the age of 35 seem to be loyal to Apple TV.

This gives Apple TV an edge for those wanting to reach a more affluent and older audience.

All of our customers who have networks on Apple TV have seen consistent growth in audience and viewing hours. It’s a fantastic distribution outlet for stable growth, especially for those wanting to reach an audience over the age of 35.

If you’re looking to get your own online TV network then check out our channel manager by clicking here. It’s the easiest way to get started with your own internet TV/OTT platform. It’s the easiest way to both start and expand your network.

Mary

How to Brand Your Own Internet TV for Maximum Profit?

You can brand your own box with your own logo and your own channel lineups. In essence, you can have your own Roku or FireTv box branded for your company. Seems like something that would cost millions, right? Well it does not.

This is the power of the Android TV OS.

Android TV is an operating system designed for Smart TV’s and digital media players. It replaces Google TV and features are built with content discovery in mind, allowing voice searches and content aggregated from various other media apps and services.

Since Android TV is an operating system that can be licensed, it means you can brand your own box and build and brand your own menus and splash screens.

Meaning your box is completely white labeled and only has the content you want preloaded on it. When a customer turns on the box they only see your logo and content.

You can also add your own channel lineups so that you create in essence your own “cable box” but instead of cable its internet based. The best part is you can do this anywhere in the world with no geographical restrictions like Roku has.

When you begin to think internationally, the possibilities really start to open up; you could sell your own cable service anywhere in the world or just your own branded TV channel.

How does it work?

Well in a nutshell there are hundreds of manufacturers that make the hardware box (streaming box) that can run the android TV OS. Each manufacturer has its own hardware configurations with different processor speeds and memory.

Picking the right manufacturer will depend on the features you want your branded streaming box to include and how much hard drive space you would like (in case you want to include your own DVR).

Once your hardware has been selected, you then need to have your software created with the menu style you like and the content you would like preloaded on each box. This will give each box the look and feel you want.

The manufacturer can brand each box with your logo on the outside to give you a completely white-labeled look and feel.

There are several different profit models you can choose to monetize your box.

For example, you can choose to charge monthly subscriptions, charge local advertisers, sell the box at a profit, and several other different strategies.

The bottom line is you can become a cable operator and monetize opportunities that others can’t see. This, of course, is the beauty of technology.

Our development staff specializes in Android TV OS and can help you craft the perfect box.

We have also worked with several manufacturers and can help you get your streaming box with all the features needed for as cheap as possible.

To manage your streaming box we can adapt a special version of our Channel Manager specifically to your needs and even have different tiers (For example Silver, Gold and Platinum subscriber levels).

Imagine being able to turn your video content into a steady source of income while connecting with millions of viewers worldwide. Sounds like a dream, right?

For many video creators, the real challenge isn’t just making engaging content—it’s finding the right platform to monetize and grow their audience.

That’s where TVStartup comes in, offering a powerful solution that enables creators to distribute their content on popular streaming platforms like Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and more.

If you’re fed up with low visibility or not earning what you deserve from your content, it’s time to see how TVStartup can make a difference.

Mary

How to License Video Content for Your Internet TV Network?

What type of licensing?

When it comes to licensing video content, the holy grail is a blanket license. A one-time fee, usually a one-off or annual fee that covers a broadcast license for hundreds, thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of video content. For some genres this is the norm and for others you have to look hard to find it.

Blanket License

In the music industry, especially for music videos, the best two places to get a blanket license is ASCAP and BMI which can offer blanket licenses to cover hundreds of thousands if not millions of titles.

If you indicate that you are a start-up with no current revenue, it really brings down the price of your license to a few hundred dollars a year.

This will give you an immediate start on your own Music Video channel or however you intend to use the licensing.

Keep in mind that they do not provide the music videos but just the license.

You will need to obtain the videos yourself.

When it comes to other video content (TV shows, movies and documentaries) blanket licenses can become much more scarce.

The main reason is because, unlike the music industry that has a common agreement to license their content through just a few organizations, the video industry has no such agreements uniting them.

Because production costs can run high and popularity from one movie or TV series to the next can vary widely, so does the cost to license content.

However, that does not mean that no blanket license exists, it just means they don’t exist on the organizational level (meaning one or two organizations formed for such purpose). Instead they exist from one production company to another.

For example, a production house that produces horror movies may offer one license to cover their last 30 movies. Many deals like this exist, you just have to look for them.

Video Licensing Companies

One of the best ways to find good deals on licensing content is to call video licensing companies (a really good one is GreenLight) or to attend events like the NAB where you can meet with hundreds of production companies and clearance companies.

Creating a License

A license is an agreement between the creator/owner of the video content and one or more distributors.

The license will detail the intended use of the video content (online, broadcast TV, promotional or corporate). The license can be exclusive to your network or non exclusive (used by more than one distributor).

Typically the license is a written consent that spells out the price and length that the distributor has for online broadcasting. There are several different licensing models that we will discuss in this article.

How much does it cost?

When it comes to video content so many factors play a role and there is no one price that fits all. From TV shows to documentaries, movies, and more…the hotter the item and the larger the audience the more it will cost.

However, licensing for online broadcasts is typically less expensive. This does give online TV network owners an advantage.

When Do I Need a License?

Unless it’s for non-commercial or private study use, then you always need permission to broadcast someone else’s content on your network.

However, there are several repositories for public domain content with thousands of movies, documentaries and video content that you can immediately insert into your channel.

Please understand the difference between public domain and royalty free.

1. Public domain means the intellectual property rights have expired or forfeited and the general public has the right to rebroadcast with no payment what so ever.

2. Royalty Free is the right to use copyrighted content without the need to pay royalties or license fees for each use of the content (or per volume sold). However, an upfront one-time license fee may or may not be necessary.

Creative Commons Licenses

On the other hand, Creative Commons Licenses is one of several public copyright licenses that allow the free distribution of an otherwise copyrighted content or “work”.

A creative commons license is generally used when a producer wants to give other people the right to share and use their content (or build upon it).

Here are a few links to some Creative Commons Licenses Repositories:

1. https://creativecommons.org

2. http://www.openculture.com/free-documentaries-online

3. https://freedocumentaries.org

The content does not even have to be new if you know how to spin it the right way, in fact that is how the History Channel got started, tons of public domain content from WW2. They added a voice over and made a hit channel all based off old content from the 1940’s.

Fair Use

US copyright law allows that brief excerpts of copyrighted material may, under certain conditions, without the need of payment or permission from the copyright holder, be broadcast by third parties. Typical uses is for NEWS reporting, teaching an research.

Licensing Models: Below are some of the most common forms of licensing you will experience.

Fixed License Fee

The organization can distribute the content for a fixed time period within a specific territory. If the content is being broadcast online as a VOD then the licensee is not required to report back to the license granter the success of the program or share any revenue they have received. This is the method Netflix uses to license content.

Revenue Share

The licensee shares revenue with the distributor (typically a VOD platform). This is typically a Pay Per View system where a user pays to watch an individual or a series of TV shows, movies or documentaries.

Minimum Guarantee Revenue Share

The licensee agrees to pay a minimum fee (usually upfront) and additional payments should the content perform well or over perform the a set standard in the licensing agreement.

Fixed Pay Per View

This is common with VOD platforms like Hulu – the licensee pays a fixed amount to the owner of the content but on a per view basis – but can offset that expense by making income from advertising.

Stock Videos

Stock video is the perfect choice for documentary-style videos or any other content that features a voiceover. It’s incredibly budget-friendly compared to hiring your own footage and offers an abundance of options from which to pick.

Stock library collections contain professionally shot material taken all over the world, so finding visuals that encapsulate what you have in mind has never been easier!

With high-resolution visuals, stock videos can sometimes be even better than what you could produce yourself!

So if you’re looking for a creative way to save money, look no further than stock videos to make your next piece of content.

When searching for stock videos, it is essential to be aware of any restrictions or requirements imposed by their video licensing agreement.

To ensure that you are adhering to these conditions correctly and avoiding potential problems in the future, pay close attention to each one before using a video.

Some great stock video sites

How to License Video Content?

Licensing video content can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The first step is to identify the content you wish to license and determine what kind of licensing agreement you need.

Depending on how the content will be used, different licenses may be applicable, such as public domain works or exclusive use rights under copyright law.

Once you know which type of license applies to your situation, research sources or copyright owners for obtaining the material in question.

For example, if you plan on using pre-existing footage, you should explore stock video libraries or other online resources where this type of material can be licensed. If you intend to create new video footage for your own.

You can also look for content aggregators or licensing agencies like VideoElephant, a great company with millions of short-form content you can use for your AVOD platforms or FAST channel.

What happens if I don’t license the content?

Typically if you are a smaller organization nothing happens….however you can get removed from platforms like Roku, FireTV and others for not having the proper licensing documentation.

So it’s always best to keep your content licensed.

Want to read more? Check out The Genisus of Roku2.

Mary

Samsung Smart TV Apps See Explosive 200% Growth

Samsung has more than 32 million smart TV’s in households throughout the USA (even more globally).

These smart TV’s not only allow for inputs from connected TV devices such as Roku, FireTV, Apple TV and more, but they also come built with access to the Samsung TV app store. Samsung TV app store has been growing steadily over the past few years. Years ago Smart TV’s were considered a “Bust” and had very little viewership. However, this has changed significantly since 2011.

According to Samsung, ad research shows that since 2011 there has been a 200% growth in launching apps from the Samsung Smart TV. Tom Fochetta, VP of advertising sales at Samsung Ads, tells Video Insider. “Now we are seeing these OTT users launch these apps nearly every other day.

They are becoming part of their video content mix; consumers are seamlessly going back and forth between smart TV, a gaming console, smartphone, tablets, and consuming this video through multiple touch-points.”

Samsung also coined the phrase “Total TV Watchers” – A term they call viewers who both watch cable TV and who consume content via the internet (OTT).

Samsung found that “Total TV Watchers” would open TV apps on average 140 times per month and watch on average 11% more video content over the internet than the average viewer.

“They actually are making room in their media mix for more media content,” Fochetta says. “It is not a zero-sum game.”

All of this points to the fact that the definition of TV is changing. Users can now seamlessly switch back and forth from an array of different sources. This means that broadcasters need to transform their media plans and launch their own TV apps on as many connected TV devices and smart TV platforms as possible.

Growth is in all corners but Smart TVs have finally caught up with users – who are now turning to their Smart TV’s native app store more and more often.

With Smart TV’s in the living rooms of millions of people both nationwide and globally the audience potential is growing.

It’s not just a fact of “If” millions more will be tuning in to the apps on smart TV’s its “how soon”. Previously, audiences were hesitant to try TV apps or felt intimidated to use them to access video content. However, as Internet TV keeps making more headway more and more people are becoming aware and adapting.

Even the older generations are adapting to new viewing habits as technology becomes more accessible and easier to use.

Smart TV’s (also called Hybrid TV’s) are growing across the board (not just Samsung) with all major manufacturers. In fact, from year to year there is a significant increase in market penetration and with each manufacturer promoting their own app store it’s only going to get better for Internet TV network owners.

The global smart TV market is expected to register a growth rate of over 16.52% from now until 2023. With steady growth like this, it’s no wonder your top broadcasters are placing their networks within the reach of smart TV owners.

What this all boils down to for online TV networks owners is more opportunity to reach more people exactly where they want to interact with them – in their living rooms.

Many of our customers that have a TV app on Samsung see significant boost to their viewing audience and as the stats suggest this will only get better with time.

If you looking to start your own Internet TV network and have your own TV apps you should check out our Channel Manager.

Mary

Choosing Between Satellite, Cable, and Internet TV: What You Need to Know?

Satellite and Cable TV is what is considered “Traditional TV” and also known as Linear Television. Linear TV means your TV programs run in a straight line on a schedule. Meaning the viewer must watch a scheduled TV program at the actual time of broadcast.

Although satellite and cable subscriptions have been falling off due to other media alternatives such as Netflix, HULU and other choices, the video industry as a whole has only grown. This is because there are more ways than ever to check out your favorite shows than ever before in history.

4 Different Types Of Television

1. Cable TV – TV that comes through a cable wire into your home. Common cable providers are AT&T, Comcast, Charter and so on…..

2. Satellite TV – TV that is beamed down to a dish from a satellite. Providers like Dish and Direct TV are some of the most popular here in the USA.

3. Broadcast TV – TV that comes through your antenna

4. Internet TV AKA OTT – TV delivered through the internet to different platforms like the web, Roku, Apple TV and more.

There are basically two ways to get video content into your living room: You can tune in through a satellite, cable or antenna, or it can be streamed through the internet.

Broadcast TV includes Satellite, cable and Antenna reception. Broadcast networks essentially operate by broadcasting video content from a central location. For cable it is broadcast and delivered to your home through a coaxial cable.

Satellite it comes from radio waves that you pick up with your satellite dish attached to your home.

Cable and satellite both work by allowing you to “tune in” to specific channels within that signal. The big difference is that cable comes into your home through a wire and satellite through the air.

What Is Internet TV?

Internet TV accomplishes the same goal (to put content on your TV) but is delivered through the internet either to your Smart TV (Via a smart TV app) or connected TV device (Roku, FireTV, Apple TV etc…).

Internet TV can also be delivered to your mobile phone or desktop either through an app (like YouTube) or a browser.

Pros & Cons for Consumers

For most of us, as long as we know how to turn the TV on and get what we want either via the internet or satellite/cable, understanding the nuts and bolts isn’t as important. However, if you are staring your own Online TV network then it’s great to have an understanding of the Pro’s and Cons.

Cable TV Pros & Cons

Pros:

Quality: No buffering and a dedicated line for video. Video is always high quality.
Hundreds of channels to choose from with a dedicated program guide.

Cons:

It’s only available in areas in which cable has been run.
Cost is typically high
Requires a cable box and can be a mess of wires in the home.

Satellite TV Pros & Cons

Pros:

Programming is very similar to cable.
It’s available nationwide
Video quality is generally good.

Cons:

You must have a large box attached to your TV’s
You must have a dish attached to your home
Storms can cause outages.
It’s generally expensive.

Broadcast TV Pros & Cons

Pros:

No subscription fees
Local news and sports coverage

Cons:

Limited channel selection
It needs an antenna for better reception

Internet TV Pros & Cons

Pros:

Price can be quite a bit lower.
You only pay for what you want to watch and many channels are free.
No need to install anything (no dish or cable wires to run)
There are many choices to pick from.
You can offer VOD (does not have to be Linear)
Is available globally

Cons:

Video quality can suffer if connection speeds drop.
You may not have access to some of your favorite shows that are only broadcast on cable/satellite.

How Video Creators Can Benefit from Internet TV?

One of the most promising opportunities today is Internet TV—a platform that allows creators to distribute their content on major streaming services like Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Android TV. Unlike traditional social media platforms, Internet TV offers video creators a more stable, scalable, and profitable environment.

1. Greater Audience Reach

Traditional platforms like YouTube and TikTok have millions of users, but Internet TV allows you to tap into millions of households who prefer watching content on smart TVs rather than mobile devices or desktops.

By launching your channel on platforms such as Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV, you can reach a global audience that actively consumes long-form content on-demand.

2. Higher Monetization Potential

Unlike social media platforms where monetization is limited to ad revenue and brand deals, Internet TV provides multiple income streams:

Subscription streaming (SVOD) – Charge audiences a monthly fee for exclusive content.

Ad-supported streaming (AVOD) – Gain revenue by adding in-stream ads.

Pay-per-watch (TVOD) – Sell special content or organized events.

Sponsorships & partnerships – Join up with entrepreneurs who are endorsing products on the web-based channels of entertainment.

3. Creative Freedom & Control

One of the biggest challenges for video creators on platforms like YouTube and Facebook is censorship and algorithm changes. With Internet TV, you have full control over your content without worrying about sudden demonetization or restrictions.

No community guidelines restricting creative expression.

You own your audience and content, reducing dependency on third-party platforms.

Custom branding and design allows you to build a professional channel that reflects your unique identity.

4. Brand Authority & Credibility

Having a presence on major Internet TV platforms positions you as a serious content creator or media company.

Unlike social media, which is flooded with user-generated content, streaming TV platforms cater to high-quality, professional content, making your brand appear more authoritative and premium.

How to Start Your Own Internet TV Channel

The popularity of digital streaming has changed the game in creating your channel on the Internet. One of the advantages of an Internet TV channel is that it is not only for creators but also for entrepreneurs or business owners to be able to introduce and keep a loyal audience.

Step 1: Choose the Right Streaming Platform

The first step in starting your own web-based TV channel consists of picking the right streaming service. Platforms such as Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Android TV ease the initiation of the channels, enabling creators to launch their own brands.

These services allow you to get in touch with millions of consumers from all over the world, giving the opportunity to anyone to expand their content distribution.

Step 2: Create & Upload High-Quality Content

Content rules the world. If you want your Internet TV channel to be successful, you will have to create quality, efficient, and dynamic videos which will both entertain and educate your viewers and thus add value to your audience. These are a few tips:

Know your niche – Find your niche and produce the content according to that particular target group.

Invest in quality production – High-quality images and crystal-clear sound will make the viewer’s experience better.

Be consistent – Post regularly new material to make your audience interested.

Use SEO-friendly titles and descriptions – Get the search engine love for your videos by optimizing them with the right keywords and searching them out by optimizing keyword placement.

Step 3: Use a Channel Management System

Managing an Internet TV channel requires a reliable system to organize and distribute content effectively. Channel Manager allows you to schedule, categorize, and monetize your videos with ease.

At TvStartup, we offer a custom-built Channel Manager that mimics traditional TV distribution while operating entirely online. The system is designed to give video creators complete control over their content, making it accessible anytime, anywhere.

Step 4: Monetize Your Channel

Several ways can be adopted to make a profit from your online TV channel:

Subscription Model (SVOD) – Request the viewers to pay a monthly or yearly subscription fee to have access to special content.

Advertising (AVOD) – Make money with ad placements that take place before, during, or after videos.

Pay-Per-View (TVOD) – Sell the individual episodes or special content for a one-time fee.

Sponsorships & Partnerships – The collaboration with brands and companies which suits the specific field of your content.

Build Your Internet Network with Ease

So as a broadcaster the obvious choice today is starting your network via the internet. You can literally start your network for just a few hundred dollars on the internet vs millions it takes to acquire your own satellite or cable channel.

When I first started back in 2004 all we did was satellite channels. However, as technology evolved we quickly adapted to help our satellite customers get their network onto the internet.

We had to “mimic” the same type of quality and system that our customers had on satellite and duplicate that onto the internet. This led us to develop our “Channel Manager ” which was built from the ground up with TV distribution in mind for our satellite TV clients.

It’s now available to the general public and if you would like to try it you can check it out here. Our channel manager is the first step in starting your internet TV network.

Mary

Watch a 2 Minute Demo:

Watch a 2 Minute Demo:

Mobile Streaming for TV Networks: Is It Worth the Investment?

The Shift to Mobile TV: What's Driving the Trend?

1. The Mobile-First Generation

2. Increase in Streaming Platforms

3. 5G & Faster Internet Speeds

4. Smartphone Penetration is at an All-Time High

Challenges for Content Creators

Limited Reach:

Monetization Struggles:

Lack of Control:

Why Your Channel Needs a Mobile TV App

Reach More Viewers Anytime, Anywhere

Unlock Multiple Revenue Streams

Full Control Over Branding & User Experience

Better Engagement & Viewer Retention

How to Launch Your Mobile TV App

Final Thoughts

In A Crowded Smart TV Market, A Clear Winner Emerges

1. Massive Audience Reach on Roku

PRO TIP

2. Easy Setup & Affordable Launch Costs

3. Multiple Monetization Opportunities

💰 Advertising-Based Video on Demand (AVOD)

💳 Subscription-Based Video on Demand (SVOD)

🎟️ Pay-Per-View (TVOD)

4. High Discoverability & Built-In Marketing Tools

5. Future-Proof Streaming Technology

Roku vs. Other Streaming Platforms: How Does It Compare?

Best Practices for Growing Your Roku Channel Audience

Case Studies: Successful Roku Channels

Why Choose TvStartup to Launch Your Roku Channel?

Why These Niches Matter to You?

1. Educational and How-To Content

Why You’ll Love It:

2. Personal Finance and Investing

Why It’s Profitable:

Why It Stands Out:

3. Health, Wellness, and Fitness

Why It’s Engaging:

Why It’s Profitable:

4. Gaming and Esports

Why It’s Profitable:

Why Gamers Love It:

5. Travel and Adventure

Why It Captures Attention:

Take the Next Step Toward Your Content Niche

What’s Your Next Move?

Final Thoughts

What is SVOD?

The Growing Popularity of SVOD

How Video Creators Benefit from SVOD?

Getting Started with SVOD as a Video Creator

1.) Develop A Strong Content Strategy

2). Find the Ideal Platform

3). Advertise Your Content

4). Participate in Your Community

Future of SVOD for Video Creators

Conclusion

1. Reliable Internet Connection

Internet Requirements for Smooth Streaming:

PRO TIP

2. Professional-Quality Equipment

Key Equipment for Live Streaming:.

PRO TIP

3. Content Planning and Interaction Strategy

Best Practices for Engaging Live Streams:

PRO TIP

4. Monetization and Scalability

Why Choose TvStartup for Your Live TV Streaming Needs?

Final Thoughts

What is Restreaming?

Why Should Content Creators Restream?

How to Get Starter with Restreaming

1. Choose the Right Restreaming Service

2. Set Up Your Streaming Platforms

3. Prepare Your Content

Tips for Successful Restreaming

Challenges of Restreaming and How to Overcome Them