Launching a new OTT service is a complex and time-consuming process. Reaching a wide audience is one of the biggest challenges video content creators face on this journey.
Wouldn’t it be great if there was a way to directly deliver your content to your target viewers’ television sets?
The good news is that distributing your content on smart TVs isn’t rocket science. You just have to integrate your OTT app with the right smart TV operating systems.
But the diverse assortment of operating systems available in the market will leave you spoilt for choice.
The “webOS vs. SmartCast” debate is one of the biggest dilemmas you’ll encounter. So how do you know which platform will help you reach the largest audience and increase your revenue?
In this blog, we’ll address the SmartCast vs. webOS dilemma and help you make the rich choice for your OTT platform.
LG webOS: A Closer Look
webOS is a leading smart TV operating system that’s been around since 2009. It offers a user-friendly and intuitive platform that powers LG’s television sets.
Image via LG Newsroom
It’s packed with a wide array of features, including:
- LG Magic Remote integration
- Support for LG’s proprietary ThinQ AI platform
- Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa compatibility
- 360-degree video playback
- OLED image gallery
webOS supports a wide array of OTT apps, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, etc. Also, viewers can install the LG TV Plus app to navigate the platform using their smartphones.
The latest version, webOS 6.0, also delivers an enhanced user experience with a simple interface.
webOS: Pros and Cons
Here’s the thing — webOS is the smart TV platform with the second largest market share. It outranks Android TV, Roku TV, Fire OS, and several other operating systems.
That means launching your app on LG webOS will help maximize your reach.
Also, LG has been allowing third-party TV manufacturers, including Ayonz, Konka, and RCA, to use the operating system. So, if your app is available on webOS, it’s going to reach an even wider audience across multiple devices. It can even help you harness new demographics.
The only slight drawback is that webOS doesn’t support a few popular streaming apps, such as Freeview Play.
VIZIO SmartCast: A Quick Overview
The webOS vs. SmartCast discussion won’t be complete without evaluating the features, as well as benefits, of VIZIO SmartCast.
Image via VIZIO
SmartCast is an award-winning smart TV platform that’s the driving force behind every new VIZIO TV. It supports a broad spectrum of popular OTT apps, including Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, etc.
SmartCast offers all the features you’d expect from a standard smart TV operating system. These include:
- Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa integration
- SmartCast Mobile app for easy navigation with smartphones
- All-new voice remote with VIZIO voice integration
- Built-in Google Chromecast support
- An impressive assortment of free TV channels
Moreover, SmartCast users can stream their favorite content in 4K, HDR, and Dolby Vision. They can also enjoy Dolby Atmos-powered audio quality.
SmartCast: Pros and Cons
VIZIO SmartCast is one of the fastest-growing smart TV platforms, with more than 13.4 million active accounts. The platform’s user base has witnessed a massive 57% surge in the second quarter of 2021.
That means distributing your content on SmartCast is an excellent way of amplifying reach and revenue. If you’re trying to make your mark as an OTT service provider, it can help you find your footing.
Also, leveraging a platform that’s growing so quickly can help you grow your reach manifold. The only slight drawback is that, unlike webOS, the SmartCast Platform is restricted to VIZIO television sets.
webOS vs. SmartCast: The Final Verdict
There’s no well-defined formula to pick a winner in the webOS vs. SmartCast tussle. Both platforms support a wide range of OTT apps and offer advanced features, such as support for voice-enabled devices.
Ultimately, your selection should depend on the preferences of your target users. If you want to distribute your content across television sets by different manufacturers, webOS is the right fit.
But if you’re planning to target VIZIO TV users specifically, SmartCast would be a wiser choice.
MAZ lets you integrate your OTT platform with VIZIO SmartCast. Contact us today to kickstart the process.