The way we are entertained has changed drastically over the last decade. Nowadays, almost all of our entertainment takes place online and via the internet, streamed directly to our handheld devices, computers, or smart devices. All trends indicate that things will continue going in this direction, especially with the expansion of the Metaverse.
Let’s take a look back and see how streaming technology has completely revolutionised the way we consume entertainment in the digital era.
On-demand films and TV
Many moons ago, we would only know what would be on TV by checking the TV guide. We would then have to make a note and be sure to tune in at precisely the right time or risk missing it altogether. Of course, you could set the video recorder to record if you were not going to make it. Either way, planning what shows to watch, remembering to tune in, and a significant reliance on broadcasts making it onto the airwaves was the bog-standard way in which people watched TV.
In 2022, that is no longer the case. We can stream TV shows, documentaries, news, and films whenever we want and however much we want. We can pause, rewind, and fast-forward to our heart’s content. There are streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney Plus, which are subscription-based, or sites like YouTube that are mostly free. The number of people watching regular TV and subscribing to TV packages is declining steadily as more and more opt for on-demand streaming. This is not only because of the merits of convenience but also because of the sheer range of blockbuster titles available via these entertainment mediums.
Casinos and gambling
Streaming has even found its way into the online casino and gambling sector. Popular gambling games are now essentially streamed on-demand as and when the user wants to play them. However, there is another application of streaming technology in the sector in the form of popular live dealer casinos. Essentially, online casinos have sought to replicate the thrilling live casino experience by using real-time, professional croupiers within a studio to conduct classic casino games such as poker, roulette and baccarat. Through this technology, players are able to participate from the comfort of their own homes and also socially interact with other players.
This is an awesome application of streaming technology that has driven forward the demand for immersive gambling experiences. Most gambling games that have a dealer or require a human to deal or complete action can be streamed in the live dealer format, and future integrations with VR and AR are set to make it even more exciting!
Music
In the past, we would have to sit next to the radio, hoping our favourite song would come on. Alternatively, we would download tracks we wanted to listen to or buy clunky tapes and CDs. In 2022, things have come a long, long way. Music can now be streamed on-demand to any device (mobile, computer, home assistant, smartwatch) and at any time.
All the songs in the world are at our disposal, and we don’t even have to download them. It is estimated there are around 540 million music streaming clients the world over, not including those that use YouTube and similar. In addition, some 84% of music industry revenue now comes from streaming services such as Apple Music, Spotify, and Tidal.
These are just three examples of how streaming has changed things. We can also mention the way we communicate through video streaming platforms like Zoom and social media sites like Instagram and Facebook. Most of us use streaming every day, even without realising how far we have come compared to just a few years ago.
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