Video Streaming Standards

Video streaming is a highly standardized technology, based on protocols developed by the major international standards bodies, but the market differentiator for video streaming continues to be the major product platforms. There are currently three platforms that act as de facto standards, Microsoft's Windows Media, RealNetworks' Helix Media Delivery Platform, and Apple's QuickTime Media. A fourth platform, Adobe Flash, holds a significant market share by being pre-installed by major computer manufacturers and supported by browser manufacturers. These market leaders work to have their proprietary technologies built into standards under development. The most important factor for end users, however, remains the media player itself. Ease of use, appearance, and variety of media channels often drive customers to one player over another, although many users simply use multiple players to provide greater variety. This report looks at the market leading media players, some of the underlying standards, and looks at future directions.