How to Live Stream Like a Pro through Smartphone?

Smartphones now comprise Full HD Cameras with most of the features of a professional Camera. Though they cannot replace a professional camera, many smartphones now offer high resolutions, HD quality video recording and various modes that can help a person record a decent video.

Live streaming through a Smartphone has its benefits like being inexpensive than the alternatives, gaining a video quality on par with professional cameras etc. But it can be lacking in terms of producing quality audio. Weighing in on the benefits and the solutions, let us dive into the details of how to use a smartphone for live streaming successfully.

Smartphones are not designed to record without shakes which is why one can observe a shaky video if it is shot on Smartphone. High-resolution professional cameras have a built-in feature to reduce the movements and record a decent video. Since Smartphones lack the feature, using a tripod or a stand to hold the Smartphone will help reduce the vibrations giving the streamers a professional quality live streaming video.

Smartphone Cameras while possesses the ability to produce quality videos lack the noise canceling feature. This can make the video unappealing to the audience and reduce the reach. This problem can be minimalized by using a Smartphone to record videos indoors. But when shooting outdoors, using a live streaming device to connect a microphone can help record crystal-clear audio.

Live streaming devices can take video input from smartphones and streaming them across platforms to the desired destinations. A microphone connected to the device, lets you record better audio while deriving video input from the Smartphone camera. The devices work with the help of an app which let you control the various settings available.

Another solution to stream videos is Live streaming platforms. Platforms offer a decent set of options like Video Embedding, Simultaneous Streaming, Branding, Adding Scroll texts, Ad integration, Password Protection, etc. Even without the device, one can access live streaming platforms through Smartphones and get a professional quality live stream. Subscribe to any one of the live streaming platforms and start streaming to the world right from your smartphones.

Source: http://blog.freedocast.com/live-stream-like-pro-using-smartphone/ 

Live Streaming Company News is Innovative and Engaging to Customers and Employees

One of the few benefits of organizational live streaming is that it can be used externally to engage the customers as well as internally to engage the employees. While the benefits of engaging customers are clear to all and had been discussed before, the concept of engaging employees using live streaming is something that is innovative and can be a powerful tool. Here we will elaborate on both the concepts, their benefits.

Live Stream Engaging Customers

Live streaming benefits of engaging customers are innumerable. One can live stream product explanations, interviews with the creators, interviews with the other customers explaining the benefits of the products, the versatility of product usage, etc. The streaming content must be highly creative and funny to be engaging.

Product explanations, since can be message-oriented might turn out to be boring for the customers. Look for highly creative ways to explain about the product, like making a short film about how the product is useful, an animation video explaining its benefits, etc.

Educational websites can bank on interviews with scientists, professors and highly revered people in the relevant fields. Engaging interviews that explore profound futuristic topics always garner the interest of the people worldwide. Educational websites can use an ocean of topics to live stream.

Any kind of website can choose their relevant topics to create good quality live streams and inform the customers about them through social media, Ad Campaigns, etc., to amplify their business.

Employee Engagement

HR Departments organize various fun activities for the employees to keep them encouraged and make work fun. One aspect that most companies miss on is providing the proper encouragement and inspiration for the employees. Though this happens at the managerial level i.e., from manager to the team among all chains, it doesn’t contribute to the whole company since everyone has an explanation of their own.

The message will be far more effective when the Founders and the top-level creators of the company relay their message to every employee working for the organization. This is usually done in company meets that don’t happen very often. Live streaming helps in this area without ever disrupting the work time or productivity.

Once a month if a live stream can be scheduled updating each and every employee of the updates, the progress, and the expected targets it can boost the productivity of the employees and make them feel that their work contributes to the whole. One can also update about the best performing team in the live stream which can make the teams work in friendly competition with each other which in turn can add to the output of the company.

These effective usages of live streaming are still unheard of by many and remain to be explored further. Be the first to try it in your organization with our free trial. Sign up to gain access to the Freedocast live streaming platform and all its benefits for 7 days. Click below to sign up.

Source: http://blog.freedocast.com/live-stream-company-news-to-engage-customers-employees/

Most Common Terms in Online Video Streaming

Live streaming, one of the most advanced sectors that are going to be in full-blown usage in a few years, is currently meagerly known across the world. The sector is known to people as a technology used in smartphones but seeing live streaming as a business sector is still a vague idea among techies. But some of the tech-freaks who are familiar with the technology are already making full use of it and have started earning too.

There also exist plenty of people who bear the basic knowledge of what the technology is about and how it can be the next big thing in the world. There are the people who want to learn about it and be among the first ones to reap all its benefits but lack the knowledge of where to start. To get you started we have prepared a list of the most common terms. Here they are.

Live Streaming

Much like Live Broadcasting, live streaming is the process of telecasting content over the internet instead of a satellite. The audience will be able to watch this streaming content online on their Smartphones, Smart Televisions or any other Internet-enabled devices.

Live Streaming Devices

Live Streaming devices enable streamers to broadcast their live video content online. The device which uses an internet connection (generally Wi-Fi, or Ethernet), is connected to a recording device (Video Camera) and streams the content as it records.

Live streaming platforms

Live streaming platforms provide a space and servers to store and distribute the content. They also provide extra features like Analytics, Branding options, Password Protection, Ad Integration, etc., to make the streams engaging.

Bitrate

The amount of data transferred per unit of time in a video is known as bitrate. Correctly translated in terms of video, Video Bitrate is defined as the number of bits processed per second, meaning higher bitrate means higher resolution and lower bitrate means lower resolution.

Multiple Bitrates

Various bitrates are used in a live streaming to transfer data. Multiple bitrates are helpful to stream the same video in different devices with different resolutions and internet speeds, enabling every device to be able to play the video without any buffering.

Adaptive Bitrate

When the video is streamed using Adaptive Bitrate the stream adjusts itself to the device’s video specifications and speed and plays the video accordingly minimizing the buffering time. Some Live streaming platforms provide this feature along with other mentioned features and choosing the one that has this feature is beneficial for large-scale broadcasting.

Encoder

Encoders are used to convert the video format of the source video into something that is playable in all the devices. Though encoders are an integral part of live streaming devices, streamers who don’t use a device can use an external encoder to broadcast their content. Encoders also allow the live streamers to use various bitrates to extend their reach of devices.

Buffering

Buffering is known to almost every person who uses online video streaming websites like Youtube, Amazon Video, Netflix, etc. When a video is streamed from a different source onto your device buffering happens when the video is collecting additional data to play the video properly. This usually happens when a high-resolution video is played in devices with nominal internet speeds.

In Live Streaming, Streaming using Adaptive Bitrate technology helps minimize the problem of buffering which in turn keeps the audience engaged.

Bandwidth

Bandwidth is the amount of data offered by a service to a customer by service providers. In live streaming terms, this measures the amount of data offered by live streaming platforms to the streamers to stream their content. The more the bitrates, the higher the resolution and higher is the bandwidth required by the streamer.

CDN – Content Delivery Networks

CDNs are servers that are placed across the world for the fast delivery of digital content. The streaming content from the user will be transferred to the closest located server to a user and then the cached content is delivered to the user. A good service possesses more CDNs all over the globe that enables a fast delivery of streaming content.

Latency

This word is used to describe the time difference between Real-Time and online streaming time. Both the times are never the same and the latency can be decreased to a certain extent by using different features of the live streaming platforms.

Check out the Freedocast live streaming platform to know about the various features offered and how they work. You can simply avail the one-week free trial to enjoy all the options provided by filling in the details below.

Source: http://blog.freedocast.com/common-online-video-streaming-terms/

Here’s How Non-Profit Organizations can Benefit from Live Streaming

Empathy, argued by many psychologists and evolutionists as a trait reserved for only humans, is what makes the world a better place. The evolution of humanity as a social animal and the most basic foundations of our system relies on this human trait that lets others rise along with the others. It is due to this belief that we pay taxes, set up charities, and help poor people living across the world.

Never before is the world in need of charity than now. Charities need money and not all charities come with the transparency necessary to compel people to donate more. Plenty of people worldwide carry it in their heart that once in a while, donating to a good charity that helps people might make some good. But the dilemma that arises about the destination of their donation always makes them take a step back.

Whenever the discussion of charity arises, with an equatorial intensity arises the discussion of defraudment. More than half the populace that can afford to donate significant amounts is backing out of the deal just because of the increased probability of fraud. And we have heard countless news about funds being sidetracked for personal benefits in almost every region of the world.

Pragmatically, it is an impossible task for a benefactor, small or huge, to check every account book of a charity to see the flow of funds. Plus, the act is frowned upon in a civilized society. Though most of the charities invite the donors to the charitable events, not every benefactor is at leisure to participate in the event. The attending becomes out of the question if the event is in another country.

Now, what does it have to do with live streaming – Hear us out.

Charities, NGOs and other Non-Profit organizations can improve their transparency and involve the supporters in their events, Fund Raisers, etc., by streaming the events live. With this deed, both the contributors receive the satisfaction of watching someone receive help and the improved transparency can encourage more people to donate. Even the fundraisers which are organized in an entertaining manner can be made available through live streaming which could encourage more people to donate.

As it is a common knowledge, Live streaming is cost effective and is easily available both to the streamers and the contributors. Since it is online and can be logged on from practically anywhere through any internet enabled device, every interested individual will be able to watch the event live, listen to the stories if any, and donate. Due to its availability online, the video live stream can reach millions across the globe which can ultimately lead to more donations leading to the increase in the families that receive the help.

Find out more about live streaming and its benefits in our blog articles. You can avail the Freedocast free trial by simply signing up. Click on the link below to sign up.

Source: http://blog.freedocast.com/live-streaming-benefits-for-non-profit-organizations/

Save More than $500 on Freedocast’s Live Streaming Platform Subscription

Live streaming is taking the world slowly but at a steady pace. Live streaming platforms that are making content delivery easy are growing by the day and beginners who want to start streaming are really confused to choose. Almost all the platforms offer similar kind of features and it can become quite difficult when you are new to the field. Our suggestion? Go with whatever you can afford.

Most of the biggest ideas come to life when the decision time is reduced and the person acts. Every person starting something new is aware that if choosing something takes a lion’s share of your time, then the process of procrastination takes over resulting in not so expected results. So, the best course of action is to choose and start streaming the content.

Basic Features

Streaming content requires the most basic of features and here are some that you must cross off your checklist to select.

Ample amount of Bandwidth

Calculate the amount of Bandwidth that is required to stream your content. Different types of content require different bandwidths. If you want to stream to a wide range of devices, more bandwidth can be consumed and the cost of extra bandwidth (if consumed) must be taken into account.

Simultaneous Streaming

Many platforms fail to provide this option as the social media websites don’t allow streaming platforms to simultaneously stream content in two social media platforms at once. Check out the platforms with this feature as it can exponentially improve the reach.

Streaming to Custom RTMP Destinations

This feature comes with gargantuan terms and conditions from many platforms. Look for a platform that allows you to stream to custom destinations without much difficulty. To be able to stream to more than one destination is an added advantage to serious streams focused on generating revenue.

Encoder Setup

External Encoder support is one of the most common features available in live streaming platforms. During the selection of an encoder setup, it might benefit for you to select an encoder that allows you to stream both video and audio at multiple bitrates. Though this might increase the Bandwidth consumption, the incremental audience reach balances the expenditure.

           [ Read More: What is Encoder? How does it help in Live Streaming? ]

Embed URL option

Embed URLs help some type of streamers more than other. If it is a necessity for the streamer to be able to embed another video while streaming, this feature is a must. Even if it is not an essentiality, it might help to select a platform that supports this option.

Analytics

The most important part of your stream – the aftermath results are offered by Analytics. Analytics help the streamers to know how the live stream had worked and the areas where improvements are necessary. Analytics is an integral part of live video streaming that helps in the betterment of the stream, in turn, improving the reach/ business.

                           [ Also Read: Measuring the Success of Your Live Stream Video] 

Branding

Most often, it is not just the content of the video that sticks in the minds of the people but it is the brand too. A brand that streams good content every time makes people look for it instead of the content after a certain period of time. As good as your content might be, without your signature on it, it will be just another video in the lot.

There are some extra features like Email and call support, mobile capture, Geo-Blocking, etc., but to know the efficiency of these options one must first use the platform.

Why Freedocast?

The Freedocast live streaming platform offers all these features for a live streamer and that too at a grounded price. Though the plan that offers these features is billed at $149/Month, the yearly subscription is offered at a discount price that is literally $600 less than monthly. You can even check out the 1-week free trial of the service to know of all the features provided in this most popular Premium plan. Register now to gain access to the free trial and start streaming immediately. Fill in the details by clicking below.

Source: http://blog.freedocast.com/freedocast-live-streaming-platform-subscription-offer/

Now Make Unboxing Videos in Live with Freedocast Live Streaming Device

Unboxing videos have their benefits and they are trending all the time in major video streaming websites.

Every day there is a new product out in the world and not everyone buys it. A person wouldn’t know of a product unless it is advertised immensely. Even with a massive level of promotion, there would be people who will be busy with their lives and be completely unaware of the existence of its launch. And there exist people who want to buy the product but are unsure about the usage of it. These people rely on the unboxing videos to gain knowledge of its working. Unboxing videos are also popular since there is a large portion of the population that enjoys unwrapping new things.

Unboxing videos of any product can be found on YouTube and other video platforms. The videos are laced with product descriptions, special features and some go far enough to show its working. The genre of videos is not restricted to one kind of product but has unlimited options to work with. The most-watched unboxing videos involve videos about Unboxing Smartphones, Laptops, Headphones, and other electronic Gadgets like Cameras, USBs Drives, Health devices, etc. Household devices like Televisions, Refrigerators, Washing Machines and a lot more are also available on the internet.

But doing these in live is the one feat that was meagerly tried by the existing unboxing video giants. Making of an Unboxing video requires a massive amount of hard work along with the complete knowledge of the product along with its operation. By making an unboxing video, the streamer aims to educate the audience about the product through which the audience can make a decision about buying the product or learn about its operation. So, it is a must that the live streamer possesses the required knowledge and also, have commanding delivery skills that make the user stick to the video throughout its length.

Since the delivery is live, the room to make mistakes become narrow since the audience will be watching all the time. The elements that are to be taken care of, like lighting, audio, seating angle, product placement, etc., must be planned well in advance for the viewers to be engaged.

Live streaming of Unboxing videos is a territory that is still novel and hasn’t been explored yet. With the live streaming sector in a rage, this might as well become one of the top business notions. Want to try it out? Avail the Freedocast Free Trial and start live streaming unboxing videos now.

Reference Source: http://blog.freedocast.com/make-unboxing-videos-live-with-freedocast-live-streaming-device/

TV Stations Shift into Live Streaming is Easier with Freedocast Cloud Playout Solutions

The rise of Netflix serves as an exemplification in the discussion about the shift in viewership from television to live streaming. It is not just the young audience that is aiding the shift but the generation before it as well. The New Age Audience is more inclined towards watching movies without breaks, binge watch serials, and video on demands rather than watching a set itinerary.

Owing to this, the television networks are shifting their services online through OTT networks like YuppTV through which they are enabling users to watch their favorite programs anytime they wish. As time passed by the biggest of networks came up with their own live streaming platforms like hotstar, Sonyliv, etc., where they offered all the shows in live in real time with segregation of the previous episodes to catch up any time the audience considers.

Following Netflix, the networks are coming up with their own content in addition to the content by various production houses that are added periodically. This own content generated by the live streaming networks are made available to the audience for binge-watching leaving no room for any kind of pauses in the interim.

While this scenario is ideal for the herculean networks like Star, Sony, etc., there are many small networks that will be unable to keep up with the gargantuan expenditure that is required for the maintenance of a live streaming platform. Assisting these kinds of networks in their conversion into live streaming, Freedocast introduced a Cloud Playout Solutions that allow small networks to offer their content on a video platform without the stress of maintenance.

Elements that are required for an OTT platform like CDNs, Security, Bandwidth requirements, etc., are all included in the cloud playout solutions. The platform is a readymade OTT service that lets the content providers upload their content directly with the addition of a logo, and extra features like Password Protection, Graphics Integration, Playlist Creation, etc.

Live streaming platforms like Freedocast also enabled the content providers to live stream content with Adaptive Bitrate Streaming Technology increasing their reach exponentially to all devices, along with the option to integrate Ads and Scrolling Text to the content. Limiting the expenditure and guiding them in an uncharted territory, Cloud playout solutions by Freedocast is a simple yet profound solution for all the newcomers in the OTT content provision sector.

Source: http://blog.freedocast.com/tv-content-live-streaming-with-cloud-playout-solutions/