Streaming services offer instant access to content, allowing users to watch or listen on-demand without the need for downloads or physical media.
OTT bypasses cable, broadcast, and satellite television platforms, the companies that traditionally act as controllers or distributors of such content.
Digital video purchases grant a user indefinite access to a show or film, but the terms and conditions vary as to whether the file can be downloaded or must be streamed.
A client end-user can use a media player, computer, smartphone, or smart TV to start and continue playing digital video content before the entire file has been transmitted.
The Walt Disney CompanyHearst Communications, Inc.(20% ESPN+)Disney+: November 12, 2019[d]Hulu: October 29, 2007ESPN+: April 12, 2018Disney+: 158.6 millionHulu: 51.1 millionESPN+: 24.9 millionTotal: 234.6 millionDisney+: Disney+ Originals, Walt Disney Pictures, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Disney Channel, Disney Jr., Disney XD, Freeform, Disneynature, Pixar, Blue Sky Studios, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, National Geographic, ABC, ABC Signature, MTM Enterprises, The Muppets Studio, Star,[e] licensed content from other vendorsHulu: Hulu Originals,[f] 20th Television, FX Networks, 20th Century Studios, Searchlight Pictures, Touchstone Pictures, Hollywood Pictures, licensed content from other vendorsESPN+: ESPN programming, National Football League, Major League Baseball, National Hockey League, College sports, UFCDisney+: Europe, Middle East and North Africa, North America,[g] South Africa, South America, Asia-PacificHulu: United StatesESPN+: United StatesMax: May 23, 2023[j]Discovery+: January 4, 2021Max: 76.8 million[k]Discovery+: 24 millionTotal: 110.5 millionMax: HBO, Max Originals, Cinemax, Warner Bros.,[l] The CW, Discovery Channel, Food Network, TLC, Asian Food Network, Eurosport, HGTV, ID, Travel Channel, Animal Planet, Magnolia Network, New Line Cinema, DC Studios, Turner Entertainment, Warner Bros.