Simplestream is an award-winning and best-in-class provider of next-generation TV solutions to some of the biggest players in the broadcast, publishing, sports, and media industries.
Founded in 2010 with headquarters in London, Simplestream supports over 30 customers worldwide in designing, developing, and delivering innovative and design-led solutions that simplify complexity.
Simplestream’s suite of products includes Media Manager, the powerful video service platform to manage content for distribution; App Platform, the out-of-the-box product to launch premium video services with flexible monetisation models; Channel Studio, to create linear live streams from a combination of VOD assets and live events, via an easy-to-use scheduler.
Simplestream also provides a range of services and products covering insights and analytics, self-service live events, authentication, and much more. Simplestream provides simplified workflows and cloud-based solutions to industry leaders, including Channel 4, UKTV, A+E Networks, TN Marketing, AMC Networks International, CBS, GB News, News UK, Sony, SIS, GAAGO, URC, TELUS, and QVC.
As part of our 'Brains Behind the Bigger Picture' series, we asked our partners to answer some of the burning issues from this year's programme. Here Simplestream gives their take on TV today and tomorrow:
Fast-forward to 2030, what do you think will be the single biggest change in how people experience television?
By 2030, the primary method for television distribution will be digital. Cord cutting is well underway, as we know, and it’s predicted that 95% of homes will be able to watch television over the internet by 2030, therefore the viewing experience will sit firmly with Connected TVs, mobiles and devices.
What emerging technology do you believe is most likely to disrupt TV – and what are we underestimating?
Though not a recent development, advances in monetisation technologies will be fundamental to ensuring the long-term financial viability of the television industry. Rather than disrupt, these technologies will be essential to maintain the industry’s sustainability. We're potentially underestimating their impact, and we urge any broadcaster evaluating their digital transformation strategy, to consult with experts about the type of ad tech that will be most suited to their commercial objectives.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about where TV is heading?
The biggest misconception is that we’re going to lose the large screen viewing experience, in preference for viewing on mobiles/devices. Smart TVs will offer the most popular viewing experience, but it will be interesting to see how platforms such as You Tube and other digital first eco-systems adapt further to make full use of these platforms.
With consumer expectations evolving, what’s the next frontier in OTT and streaming?
The next frontier in OTT and streaming lies in hyper-personalisation, intelligent content discovery, as well as immersive engagement.
As consumer expectations evolve, audiences no longer just want access—they want relevance. The days of scrolling endlessly are numbered. The tables are turning, and viewers expect content to find them, not the other way around.
We'll also see a convergence of commerce, community, and content. Shoppable streams, social co-viewing, and gamified experiences will play a growing part in how audiences engage with media. And of course, all of this needs to be underpinned by a robust, flexible tech stack that can scale globally but still feel local.
How can broadcasters innovate faster and smarter?
A defined product roadmap, regular releases and a best of breed approach is still the most effective way to innovate. An agile approach to OTT services allows us and our broadcast customers to stay ahead of the curve.
RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS
Fragmentation or consolidation? Consolidation
Linear schedule or On-demand freedom? On-demand freedom
One platform to rule them all or Specialist services? Specialist services
Subscription-based or Ad-supported? Ad supported
Binge releases or Weekly drops? Weekly drops
Local content or Global hits? Global hits
Traditional ratings or Engagement metrics? Engagement metrics
Second screen or Single screen? Single screen
Smart TVs or Streaming sticks? Smart TVs
Voice control or Remote control? Remote control
Augmented reality or Virtual reality? Augmented reality
Short-form snackable or Long-form immersive? Short Form-snackable
Personalisation or Shared national moments? Personalisation
AI-generated content or Human-made storytelling? Human-made story telling
Interactive formats or Classic narrative? Classic narrative