Ustream

Acquired

video.ibm.com

Country: United States (US)
Founded: 2007
Developer: IBM
Pricing: Freemium
Open source: No
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Indexes

Live Streaming

Overview

Ustream is a live streaming platform that enables users to broadcast and watch live video content across various categories including sports, gaming, news, technology, and entertainment. Originally founded in 2007 and acquired by IBM in January 2016, it has evolved into IBM Video Streaming (now accessible at video.ibm.com). The platform serves both individual broadcasters and enterprise organizations, offering interactive features that allow real-time engagement between broadcasters and viewers through comments and live chat.

Key Features

Live Broadcasting - Stream live video content from cameras, devices, or desktop to a global audience with minimal setup required.
Interactive Chat - Real-time comment and chat functionality enabling two-way communication between broadcasters and viewers.
Multi-Category Support - Support for diverse content categories including sports, gaming, news, technology, music, and animals.
Channel Creation - Users can create and customize their own branded channels on the Ustream network or embed on third-party websites.
On-Demand Video - Host and share recorded streams as on-demand content for viewers to access anytime.
Mobile Broadcasting - Native iOS and Android apps enabling live streaming directly from mobile devices.
Enterprise Integration - Cloud-based platform designed for business use with scalability for large organizations and events.
Third-Party Embedding - Ability to embed streams on external websites like Facebook, MySpace, and custom domains.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Free	$0	Basic live streaming, community channels, standard video quality, limited storage
Premium	Contact for pricing	Advanced analytics, custom branding, priority support, higher bitrate streaming, extended storage

Platforms & Requirements

Ustream is accessible via web browser at video.ibm.com and offers native mobile applications for iOS and Android devices. Web access requires a stable internet connection and modern browser support. Mobile apps require iOS or Android 4.1 and higher. Desktop streaming may require additional software or encoder setup depending on broadcast source.

Integrations & Ecosystem

Facebook
MySpace
Sony cameras (HDR-AS100V)
Custom website embedding
IBM ecosystem tools
Social media posting via SNS integration

Alternatives

App	Difference
Twitch	Twitch focuses primarily on gaming and esports content, while Ustream supports broader content categories including business and enterprise streaming.
YouTube Live	YouTube Live emphasizes long-form content and permanent archiving, whereas Ustream specializes in interactive real-time engagement and business applications.
Facebook Live	Facebook Live is integrated into the Facebook platform for social sharing, while Ustream operates as a dedicated standalone streaming service with enterprise features.
Vimeo Live	Vimeo Live targets professional video creators with advanced production tools, while Ustream emphasizes accessibility and ease of use for casual and business broadcasters.

Reputation

Ustream is recognized as a reliable platform for live streaming across diverse use cases, from individual content creators to major organizations like NASA, Discovery Channel, and Sony. The platform is valued for its simplicity, interactive features, and enterprise-grade scalability. However, following IBM's acquisition in 2016, the platform has faced competition from larger players like YouTube and Facebook Live, which offer more integrated social features. The transition to IBM Video Streaming has positioned it more toward business and professional use rather than consumer entertainment streaming.

Sources (8)