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Ask yourself: would you prefer to watch a video of Gordan Ramsey cooking a steak or read about it?
You’d want to watch the magic happen on video. And you’re not the only one; your audience probably has the same approach to content consumption.
Live videos are becoming an essential part of a broader content strategy for many businesses looking to expand their audience and draw in more customers. And live streaming is right at the center of it.
You need a top-notch live streaming app to give your viewers the best experience when watching your carefully planned live streaming content. A platform that allows you to easily share and promote your content, even recording and storing it for future use.
But the question is: which live stream applications should you use depending on your specific needs? That’s precisely what we’ll answer in this article and also cover the basics of the best live streaming apps, key features to look for when choosing a mobile streaming app for business, and discuss the top apps to go live on available on the market.
What Are Live Streaming Apps?
Live streaming apps are broadcasting software applications that capture, stream, record, and share live streaming content.
The complexity and features of the best live streaming apps vary from platform to platform. Basic live streaming platforms allow users to capture and stream their content, whereas more complex video hosting platforms provide advanced recording, search, and promotional tools and social media integration.
Live streaming apps have different setups. Some operate using only a mobile phone to capture the live streaming content during live events and send it to the app for streaming. Other streaming apps integrate with more complex pieces of computer software.
Depending on your business needs and goals, selecting a live streaming app may require comparing and contrasting a set of specifications and features, or it could simply come down to whichever live streaming platform is priced right for your budget.
7 Key Features of Live Streaming Apps
What parameters should you be mindful of when selecting the best live streaming apps? To find one that suits your needs, it’s essential to carefully consider your content’s goals and weigh them against the features available on individual cloud platforms.
Let’s review the seven key features to look for when trying to find the best live stream apps for your live streaming needs.
Adaptive Bitrate Streaming
When users watch your live stream, you want them to have the best, most fluid experience possible. Adaptive bitrate streaming is an important feature that makes a great viewing experience possible.
For viewers with poor-quality internet connections, buffering a live stream is common. After a while, frequent buffering can cause users to become frustrated and abandon your live stream altogether.
With adaptive bitrate streaming, different streams with varying bitrates are served to users based on the strength of their internet connections. So, a user who has a stronger internet connection will be given a higher-quality version of your live stream than someone with a weaker connection.
To do this, the video player detects any fluctuations in internet connections and processing capacity, then automatically upgrades or downgrades the stream’s bitrate. The user sees a smooth, great-looking live streaming video. The best live streaming apps offer adaptive bitrate streaming.
Multi-Bitrate Streaming
To offer adaptive bitrate streaming to all audience members, your live streaming app must create your stream in multiple bitrates.
The right live streaming video app has built-in automatic transcoding, which allows you to push your content out to your audience at various bitrates without ever having to think about it.
Multi-bitrate streaming takes the images you collect from your camera in RAW files. And then automatically transcodes the stream into versions that will be playable on various HTML5 devices and internet connection speeds.
Simply put, the best live stream apps help you serve the format best suited for your users without extra work.
HTML5 Video Player
The HTML5 video player is currently the most customizable and compatible video player on the market. It is crucial to choose a live streaming app with an HTML5 video player to reach the largest audience possible.
The HTML5 video player replaced Adobe’s Flash player and has become known as the “all-device video player.”
The right live streaming video app will utilize HTML5 video players to give your viewers unrestricted access to your content, regardless of which device or browser they use.
HLS Video Streaming
For your viewers to get your live streaming content, it needs to be delivered from your camera and system to their devices.
The best, most modern way is using HTTP Live Streaming or the HLS protocol. This protocol delivers visual and audio media over the internet, allowing faster delivery and more reliability to end-users.
The HLS protocol also works seamlessly with HTML5 video player streaming, giving users a great live stream experience on every device.
RTMP Ingest
When your camera captures video files, RTMP Ingest needs to be encoded into a digital format better suited for live streaming. Once encoded, the files are transported from the encoder to your live video streaming app or software. Currently, the optimal protocol for the encoder to app transport is RTMP.
To ensure that your live video streaming app is compatible with the most accessible streaming technology, you should ensure that it supports RTMP ingest.
This protocol makes it easy for larger files to move across the internet with low latency, providing a stable video stream for users.
M3U8 Links
Protecting your video content is important, mainly if you use live streaming as a source of revenue. Streaming with M3U8 links ensures secure streaming and compatibility.
When your video is sent using HLS delivery to an HTML5 player, the streams contain M2U8 links. These links let the video player know where the video content is located for easy playback while also including a security token.
The security tokens regularly check in with your app’s live streaming servers, enforcing any security you may have put in place to broadcast live videos, such as password protection and restrictions. It’s an essential live streaming feature if you want to monetize your content.
Mobile Broadcasting Support
Being able to quickly and easily create live streaming content is critical for achieving your business goals. There’s no better way to do that than stream from a live streaming app that supports mobile broadcasting.
Rather than rely on a platform you can only use from a computer attached to a bulky camera, select a live streaming platform equipped with its own mobile app.
It allows you to capture and stream content wherever you are effortlessly, so you can have someone filming all the action during planned live streams, or you can always be ready to go live when the mood strikes.
Comparing the Top 23 Live Streaming Apps for Mobile Broadcasting in 2023
There are dozens of live streaming apps available today. Some are suited for individual users, while others are more suited for businesses.
Here’s a breakdown of 23 best live streaming apps in 2023.
1. Larix Broadcaster
Company Background:
Larix Broadcaster offers a broad range of live streaming features to help you quickly stream your content using your mobile device.
Basic Functionality:
With an easy-to-use mobile app, Larix Broadcaster is suited for beginners and advanced broadcasters.
Key Features:
- RTMP and RTSP publishing
- Multiple simultaneous connections to allow streaming to several destinations
- Stream to a variety of services, including YouTube Live and Twitch
- Adaptive video bitrate is supported in three modes: logarithmic descends, ladder ascends, and hybrid approach
- Audio-only capture available
Pros:
- Free live stream app
- Stream to multiple services, allowing you to integrate it into current content plans easily.
- Audio-only capture
- Multiple modes for adaptive video bitrate
Cons:
- Some users find the app confusing to use
Pricing:
Larix Broadcaster is an excellent live stream app that’s free for use on Android and iPhone.
Technical Information:
- Operating systems: Android, iOS
- File size: 17.1 MB
- Device compatibility: Apple devices with iOS 12 or later; Android devices with 4.3 (Jelly Bean), API 18+or later
Best Use Case:
Whether you’re looking to stream a single event or a complex multi-device production, Larix Broadcaster can be the app for you.
A unique way Larix Broadcaster has been used was by the NFL and MLB. Due to the pandemic, these organizations needed to host their annual draft virtually, and Larix Broadcaster was part of their virtual draft setup.
2. nanoStream
Company Background:
With extremely low latency, even to large audiences, nanoStream is one of the best apps to go live on. nanoStream was named one of Europe’s most innovative companies in live video streaming. This live streaming app is android and iOS friendly.
Basic Functionality:
You can use nanoStream to create your own live video streaming app or migrate your existing infrastructure onto the platform.
Key Features:
- Global CDN for lightning-fast delivery on any platform or browser
- Use through mobile or browser
- Easily integrates with existing live streaming infrastructure
Pros:
- Ultra-low latency for quick video delivery to users
- Easily integrates with existing infrastructure
- Unlimited number of live streams
- Cross-platform use
Cons:
- Some users report clunky integration when using other platforms
- Some features, such as white-label capability, require higher-priced packages
Pricing:
nanoStream offers three package options:
- Starter Package: Get five broadcasts, 500 viewers, and 200 GB of data for $239 per month
- Medium Package: Get ten broadcasts, 2,500 viewers, and 1,000 GB of data for $599 per month
- Enterprise/Custom Package: Businesses needing greater bandwidth or with custom needs should contact nanoStream for pricing.
Technical Information:
- Operating systems: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, browsers
- File size: Unlisted
- Device compatibility: All Apple and Android devices, desktop and laptop computers, and all browsers
Best Use Case:
NanoStream is the best app for live streaming if low latency is super essential for you. In other words, if a few seconds of delay would be a dealbreaker, this is the app you need.
Some example use cases are gaming, auctioning, e-learning, and more. The platform is widely used by software developers and organizations worldwide.
3. Wirecast Go
Company Background:
Wirecast Go is the mobile app version of Wirecast, a live streaming software platform.
Basic Functionality:
Stream content on an iPhone with Wirecast Go.
Key Features:
- Broadcast in portrait or landscape mode
- Switch between multiple prepared shots
- Add your logos and branding to your live stream
- Capture and replay live broadcast highlights
Pros:
- Ability to customize and integrate your branding
- Stream to YouTube Live and RTMP servers
- Add unlimited iOS camera sources on your Local Area Network to create multi-camera productions
Cons:
- Only available on iOS
Pricing:
Wirecast Go is free for download in the Apple app store
- Technical Information:
- Operating systems: iOS only
- File size: 21.5 MB
- Device compatibility: Apple devices with iOS 13.4.1 and newer
Best Use Case:
A solid name among the best live streaming apps that are free. The app is good for those who are already a member of Wirecast.
4. Airmix
Company Background:
Among the list of live streaming apps that offer instant replay, slow motion, custom graphics, and more for iOS live streaming, Airmix deserves an honorable mention.
Basic Functionality:
Create and stream content from your iPad, with up to 10 video sources, for professional live streams.
Key Features:
- Add custom graphics, text, and more
- Instant replay and slow-motion capability
- Share to a variety of streaming platforms
Pros:
- Mix multiple video sources from your device
- Add your custom graphics and text
Cons:
- Some users say the app is not intuitive to use
- Only available for Apple products
- Not designed for use on iPhone
Pricing:
Many free live streaming apps charge for monthly subscriptions like Airmix, which is free for download in the Apple app store. However, there is an in-app subscription available for $29.99/month.
Technical Information:
- Operating systems: iOS only
- File size: 151.5 MB
- Device compatibility: Streaming on an iPad requires iPadOS 13.0 or later; Streaming on an app requires macOS 11.0 or later (plus an Apple M1 chip)
Best Use Case:
Whether you’re a pro or amateur broadcaster, Airmix can be the perfect live video streaming app for you. Users commonly use Airmix to stream graduation ceremonies, local sports games, and live stream worship services. The use case for sports is perhaps the most notable because they offer many unique features to enhance that type of broadcast.
5. BroadcastMe
Company Background:
BroadcastMe is a live streaming app designed to help “accidental journalists” capture and share news on the go with a cloud-based video archive and live streaming app.
Basic Functionality:
The BroadcastMe app consists of three parts: newsgathering, production, and digital asset management. These tools are set up to allow users to capture and share news videos wherever they go.
Key Features:
- Live events: Send remote notifications to app users when they’re near news events
- Two simultaneous video streams
- Fully functional production system, including editing, SEO tools, and infographic integration
Pros:
- Simultaneous video streams share low-resolution feeds for live streaming and high-resolution video recording to a smartphone’s storage
- Add infographics and edit video as necessary
- Simultaneous streaming and recording
Cons:
- Feature-heavy and can be difficult for individual users to understand
- Made mainly for newsgathering
- Only available for Apple devices
Pricing:
This live video streaming app is free for download in the Apple App Store. The app charges a one-time, flat fee of $5.99, unlocking unlimited streaming and lifetime access. In-app purchases are available.
Technical Information:
- Operating systems: iOS only
- File size: 79.9 MB
- Device compatibility: iPhone iOS 10.0 or later, iPadOS 10.0 or later, iPod Touch iOS 10.0 or later, or macOS11 or later, and a Mac with Apple M1 chip
Best Use Case:
BroadcastMe is a white-label app, meaning you can create your own live streaming app for mobile broadcasting using their platform. If you’re interested in creating your own platform to live stream, BroadcastMe offers a way to go to market fast.
Why use another app for live streaming when you can use your own?
6. Twitch
Company Background:
Amazon owns Twitch, a massively popular live streaming platform for desktop mainly used by gamers. The platform is equally popular for live streaming on mobile phones.
Basic Functionality:
Twitch is the most popular platform for live streaming content, offering users the option to subscribe to their favorite channels.
Key Features:
- Widely used and trusted platform
- Users make money through donations, subscriptions, and ads
- A generally easy-to-use platform offering both desktop and an excellent mobile streaming app
Pros:
- Well-known streaming platform with a recognizable name
- A large influx of potential viewers
- A subscription model offers users long-term earning potential
Cons:
- Lots of users, so it’s difficult for streams to gain traction
Pricing:
Twitch is free to use. Twitch Sub has a three-tiered subscription program:
Tier one: $4.99
Tier two: $9.99
Tier three: $24.99
Technical Information:
- Operating systems: Android and iOS
- File size: Varies per device (Android), 144.3 MB (Apple)
- Device compatibility: Android 5.0 and up; iPhone iOS 12.4 or later, iPad iOS 12.4 or later, iPod Touch iOS 12.4 or later, or Apple TV tvOS 9.0 or later
Best Use Case:
Twitch has always been (and continues to be) one of the top live streaming apps. It’s trendy among gamers.
7. YouTube Live
Company Background:
YouTube supports pre-recorded video hosting and live streaming content for creators, with billions of viewers daily. In the mobile streaming application industry, YouTube is an industry leader.
Basic Functionality:
As one of the all-time top live streaming apps, YouTube can leverage huge benefits for newbie creators. YouTube Live is a feature of the YouTube mobile app that’s open to creators with at least 1,000 subscribers, giving them easy access to streams while on the go.
Key Features:
- Mobile live streaming is available within the existing YouTube app
- Schedule your live stream or create truly live content
- Multiple options for monetization, live chat, age restriction, and more
Pros:
- Mobile live streaming is right within the YouTube app
- Available for Apple and Android
- Schedule live streams for later or stream content in real-time
- Easy-to-use platform familiar to YouTube creators
Cons:
- Only available to those with more than 1,000 subscribers
Pricing:
YouTube Live is free for YouTube users.
Technical Information:
- Operating systems: Android and iOS
- File size: Varies per device (Android), 270.9 MB (Apple)
- Device compatibility: Android OS compatibility depends on the device; iPhone iOS 11.0 or later or iPad iOS 110 or later
Best Use Case:
It’s hard to narrow down the best use case for Youtube because it’s super popular for all kinds of use cases. Live streaming on mobile through this app has its own fan base.
If you have a very niche topic, you may still find it possible to gain a lot of traction in this app quickly. However, if your topic isn’t too niche, it may be harder to get popular on the platform in 2023. All in all, it’s one of the best live stream apps for newbies.
8. Facebook Live
Company Background:
Facebook Live is a popular feature of Facebook, one of the largest social media platforms in the world. Facebook Live is available to all users and is one of the top live streaming apps globally. It allows individuals and brands to share content in real-time.
Basic Functionality:
Facebook Live allows for easy streaming of live content on an individual or business Facebook page.
Key Features:
- Shoot and share the video right within the app
- Notifications of new videos can be sent right to your page’s current followers
- Commenting feature allows viewers to interact with you and one another
Pros:
- Easily go live within the existing Facebook app
- Moderate and respond to comments
- A ready-made audience of your page’s current followers
- Live stream from a mobile device or desktop
Cons:
- Streams can be subject to the same technical issues as the overall Facebook platform
- Algorithms may limit your reach
Pricing:
Facebook Live is free for anyone using the Facebook app.
Technical Information:
- Operating systems: Android and iOS
- File size: Varies per device (Android), 283.2 MB (Apple)
- Device compatibility: Varies per device (Android); iPhone iOS 11.0 or later, iPod Touch iOS 11.0 or later, iPad iOS 11.0 or later, or Apple TV tvOS 13.0 or later
Best Use Case:
Facebook Live is a good platform for freelancers or business owners looking to share their expertise through various formats like Q&A, roundtables, and consulting. Broadcasters can use this live streaming app for Android or Apple systems without spending anything. Other popular use cases in 2023 include raising awareness for certain causes and gaming, or just as a convenient and free option for live streaming on mobile.
3 Tips for Choosing the Best Live Streaming App for Yourself
We’re sure you know to choose an app that’s convenient to use, bug-free, fast, supports RTMP channels, and so on. So we won’t repeat those points.
Here are some additional important features to keep in mind while selecting a live stream application:
- Check if it offers a good viewing experience for your specific audience: For instance, if most of your viewers are mobile users who don’t have the best internet connection, then will your live stream work fine for them? Or will it buffer too much?
- Ensure that the customization options are available: For example, if you’re hosting a professional live stream for your business, you need a layout that matches that vibe. Similarly, if you need to interact with your audience, go for an app that displays comments so you don’t have to switch windows to read them.
- Cheak the technical difficulty level: Some live streaming applications are difficult to navigate. So you need to test out the app to see if you can manage its interface because you don’t want to end up with a mustache filter on your professional IRL stream without knowledge of how to remove it.
How to Live Stream to Mslive from Mobile
While Mslive is not a mobile live streaming platform, you can use your mobile device to live stream over the Mslive platform.
Here’s how to live stream from your mobile device using the Mslive platform in five steps.
1. Choose a Live Stream Application
First, you must select a live stream application in your phone’s app store that works with Mslive via an RTMP source. Many of the apps listed above support an RTMP connection to Mslive, so selecting the best live streaming apps should simply be a matter of finding which app works best with your phone and has the features you want.
2. Find Your Streaming URL in Mslive
To connect your live streaming app to Mslive, you will have to find your live streaming URL and other credentials. To do this, log in to your Mslive account and click “Encoder Setup.” Next, select the “Other RTMP Encoder” tab.
You will need both the “Stream URL” and “Stream Name,” as well as your login and password details.
3. Connect Your Live Streaming App with Mslive
Depending on the app you have selected, you may need to enter both the Stream URL and Stream Name or just the Stream URL. Some live stream applications also require your username and password to connect.
4. Find a Stable Internet Connection
Streaming live content requires a stable, reliable internet connection to your phone.
While the 4G or LTE data connection on your phone may seem logical, these connections aren’t often fast enough to stream content. Instead, you’ll need to connect to a wireless network and be as close as possible to the router.
If WiFi isn’t available where you are, you may want to consider carrying a hotspot with you that you can connect to in situations where you need a faster connection.
As a rule of thumb, you need a connection of at least 750 KBPS, but 2 MBPS is recommended for high-quality streaming.
5. Begin Live Streaming
Once you’ve completed all the above steps, you should be able to begin your live stream. Now, it’s time to create your content and share it with your audience.
Conclusion
This article has made comparing and selecting the best live streaming apps a bit simpler for you today. Live streaming content, including newsworthy events, church services, and conferences, is essential to many businesses’ video content strategies.
To provide your viewers with the highest video quality live streams , you need to utilize the right tools to help create your live streams in the field.
Whether you choose a live stream application that creates and shares your video on its own or one that connects to another live streaming platform, it’s essential that you find one that works for your needs and allows you to create your content with little hassle and disruption.
With Mslive, paired with the best live streaming app for your needs, you can create great-looking, entertaining live streaming content that’s automatically shared with your audience anywhere you want.
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