Over-the-top content refers to delivery of audio, video, and other media over the Internet
without a multiple system operator being involved in the control or distribution of the content.
The provider may be aware of the contents of the Internet Protocol packets but is not
responsible for, nor able to control, the viewing abilities, copyrights, and/or other
redistribution of the content.
This is in contrast to purchase or rental of video or audio content from an Internet
service provider, such as pay television video on demand or an IPTV video service, like AT&T
U-Verse.
OTT in particular refers to content that arrives from a third party, such as Dramatize, DramaFever,
Crackle, Hulu, myTV, NetD, Netflix, NowTV, RPI TV, WhereverTV, or WWE Network, and is
delivered to an end user device, leaving the ISP responsible only for transporting IP packets.
An online video distributor is defined as "any entity that offers video content by means
of the Internet or other Internet Protocol-based transmission path provided by a person or
entity other than the OVD."
Over-the-top messaging refers to a similar idea, where a third party provides instant
messaging services as an alternative to text messaging services provided by a mobile network
operator.
Consumers can access OTT content through internet-connected devices such as desktop and laptop computers,
gaming consoles, set-top boxes, smartphones, smart TVs, and tablets.
Consumers can access apps in most app stores.
See also Comparison between OTT and IPTV
Home theater PC Internet television
List of Internet television providers Multi-screen video
Set-top box Smart TV
Streaming Media Video on demand
References