About
Simplestream is an award-winning provider of next-generation TV and OTT (Over-The-Top) solutions designed for the broadcast, sport, and media industries. The platform empowers organisations to deliver premium video experiences across mobile, tablet, smart TV, and web, handling the full complexity of digital TV delivery from a single, integrated suite. Key products include the App Platform for building branded viewer apps across all screens, Media Manager for secure and scalable video asset management, Channel Studio for creating and monetising live online channels with Server-Side Ad Insertion (SSAI), and a dedicated Sports Video Platform for premium sports content. Additional modules cover HbbTV for Freeview/Freesat/YouView, self-service Live Events tools, and cost-efficient Migration Services. Simplestream serves a diverse range of sectors including traditional broadcasters, sports leagues, news organisations, kids' content providers, and teleshopping networks. Notable client deployments include Virgin Media Play, CBS AMC Networks UK channels on Freely, and the Japanese Basketball League. The platform is built around the principles of monetisation, scalability, and operational simplicity, making digital transformation accessible for both large enterprises and emerging media brands seeking to reach audiences on every screen.
Key Features
- App Platform: Build and deploy branded viewer apps for mobile, tablet, and connected TV devices from a single platform.
- Media Manager: Secure, scalable video asset management system for organising, storing, and distributing broadcast-quality content.
- Channel Studio with SSAI: Create live and on-demand online channels with integrated Server-Side Ad Insertion for seamless ad monetisation.
- Sports Video Platform: Dedicated infrastructure for delivering premium live and on-demand sports content to global audiences.
- Self-Service Live Events: Easily set up and manage high-quality live streaming events without requiring deep technical expertise.
Use Cases
- A national broadcaster launching a branded streaming app across iOS, Android, and smart TVs to complement their linear TV output.
- A sports rights holder streaming live league matches globally with low-latency delivery and ad monetisation via SSAI.
- A news organisation creating a 24/7 live news channel online with targeted advertising using Channel Studio.
- A media company migrating legacy broadcast workflows to a modern cloud-based OTT infrastructure with Simplestream's Migration Services.
- A kids' content brand building a child-friendly streaming destination with curated on-demand content and parental controls.
Pros
- End-to-End OTT Suite: Covers every stage of digital TV delivery — from content management and app development to monetisation and live events — in one integrated platform.
- Proven at Enterprise Scale: Trusted by major broadcasters and sports organisations including Virgin Media, CBS AMC Networks UK, and national sports leagues.
- Flexible Monetisation: Supports multiple revenue models including SSAI advertising, subscriptions, and pay-per-view for live events.
Cons
- Enterprise-Focused Pricing: Tailored primarily for large broadcasters and media companies; pricing and onboarding may be inaccessible for smaller independent creators.
- Limited Self-Service Transparency: Pricing and detailed product specifications are not publicly listed, requiring direct contact for evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Simplestream designed for?
Simplestream is built for broadcasters, sports rights holders, news organisations, kids' content providers, and media companies of all sizes looking to launch or scale digital TV and OTT platforms.
What platforms can Simplestream deliver content to?
Simplestream supports delivery across mobile (iOS and Android), tablet, smart TVs, connected TV devices (HbbTV, Freely), and web browsers.
Does Simplestream support live streaming?
Yes. Simplestream includes a self-service Live Events solution for high-volume, multi-language live sports and broadcast streaming, as well as Channel Studio for continuous live channel delivery.
What monetisation options are available?
Simplestream supports Server-Side Ad Insertion (SSAI), subscription-based models, and pay-per-view options, giving content owners flexible ways to generate revenue from their streams.
Can Simplestream help with migrating from legacy broadcast systems?
Yes. Simplestream offers Migration Services designed to be cost- and time-efficient, helping organisations transition from traditional broadcast infrastructure to modern OTT delivery.
