How to Build Live Video Streaming App: Full Guide 2024

Last updated on August 23rd, 2024

Given that the live streaming market is projected to reach a staggering $224 billion by 2028, it’s only logical to seek a share of this thriving industry. However, developing a live video streaming app is no small feat; it demands careful planning and strategic decision-making. Among the critical choices you will face is determining the most effective platform for delivering your content. With over five years of experience as a Product Manager at iTechnolabs, my primary goal is to ensure successful project outcomes for our clients.

I manage to keep projects on schedule and within budget through meticulous planning and creative problem-solving, skills that I refine with each assignment. My experience spans diverse sectors such as social media, real estate, e-commerce, healthcare, and fintech. In this article, I will outline the six essential steps to create a live video streaming app and guide you through the entire process. First, let’s take a closer look at what constitutes a live video streaming app.

What is a Live Video Streaming App?

As the term suggests, live video streaming apps are software applications that enable users to simultaneously capture and transmit video content. The rise of high-speed internet and sophisticated camera technology has led to a significant increase in the popularity of these apps in recent years.

Live video streaming applications have greatly contributed to the growth of influencer marketing, entertainment, business promotions, and the evolution of online interactions. Some of the most widely used live video streaming apps today include:

Twitch, YouTube Live, and TikTok are among the most popular live video streaming applications, each catering to distinct audiences. Facebook Live and Instagram Live are also widely recognized by social media users, while Twitch primarily serves gamers looking to share their gameplay. On the other hand, Douyu acts as the Chinese counterpart to Twitch, attracting a larger volume of active users.

Interesting Live Video Streaming Market Statistics

• The global live video streaming market expanded from $1.24 billion in 2022 to $1.49 billion in 2023.
• Projections indicate that the live streaming industry will reach $3.21 billion by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.2%.
• As of 2023, China has 765 million users engaged in live streaming.
• A significant 80% of individuals prefer live video content over traditional blog articles.
• In Q3 2023, the total viewing hours for live streaming content across all platforms reached 7.6 billion.
• The United States recorded approximately 158 million live stream viewers in 2023.
• Around 34% of Generation Z has expressed a keen interest in live streams, particularly on social media platforms.
• Companies that incorporate video features into their strategies see revenue growth that is 49% faster than those that do not.

Also Read: Build a Streaming Application Like ShowBox App

3 Types of Live Video Streaming Apps

When discussing live video streaming applications, the majority of users and businesses tend to focus on video live streaming software. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, there are several other varieties of live video streaming apps available. Before you embark on developing a live video streaming app, it’s essential to understand the specific type it falls under. Here are three prevalent categories of live streaming applications.

Live broadcasting apps

Live broadcasting apps are arguably the most prominent category of live streaming applications. These platforms enable users to transmit live audio and video recordings to an audience that can tune into the stream. As a result, they have paved the way for numerous internet influencers and celebrities to emerge.

Audio streaming

By removing the video element, you end up with an audio streaming application. These apps allow users to listen to audio content that is broadcast over the internet in real time.

Video-on-Demand Streaming 

This category of live video streaming applications enables users to schedule and view their preferred television shows online at their convenience, allowing for a flexible viewing experience.

How to Create a Live Video Streaming App in 6 Steps: Guide for Startup Owners

In this section, we will concentrate on the development process of video streaming applications, specifically tailored for startups and aspiring business owners. Below, we outline six essential steps to guide you in creating a successful live video streaming app.

Step 1. Define your audience and their needs

It’s crucial to avoid basing your live video streaming app on assumptions. Instead, focus on understanding the genuine needs of your target users. Conducting interviews with potential users will help you uncover their challenges early in the development process. This initial feedback will guide you in creating a user-centric app and may even lead to securing your first group of beta testers.

Step 2. Choose monetization strategies

Ultimately, monetizing your live video streaming app is essential, and there are three popular strategies to consider. First, you could opt for a paid app model, charging users a one-time fee for downloading the application. Alternatively, a freemium approach allows users to download the app for free, with certain features accessible only to paying subscribers. Lastly, incorporating advertisements into the app can generate revenue through advertising fees. However, it’s uncommon for a product to rely solely on a single monetization model; typically, a combination of two or three is employed for greater financial stability and security.

For further insights on monetization strategies and how free apps make money, check out our dedicated article. For instance, Twitch, a leading live streaming platform, monetizes through multiple streams including subscriptions, advertising, and a share of the revenue from “bits” purchased by users to enhance interactions and support their favorite streamers. Similarly, TikTok generates income through advertising, in-app purchases, and ECommerce opportunities. Another example is Livestream, which is now part of Vimeo; this mobile app facilitates streaming to other platforms like YouTube Live and Facebook Live. While the Livestream app is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, a paid subscription is required to access its features.

Step 3. Use a reliable platform for live streaming, hosting, and storage

Next, it’s crucial to select a platform that is well-suited for streaming, hosting, and storing your content. Opting for the cheapest provider can often be a misguided decision. While it may seem tempting to cut costs initially, compromising on quality can lead to significant issues as your user base expands. Viewers are typically intolerant of lagging streams or low-resolution videos, which can ultimately harm the app’s reputation.

For hosting and storage solutions, platforms like Google Cloud Platform (GCP) or Microsoft Azure provide scalable and secure cloud services. When it comes to live streaming, consider specialized services like StreamShark or Vimeo Live, both of which are tailored to deliver high-quality, dependable video experiences for large audiences. These options are just a few among many that strike a good balance between quality and scalability, which is vital as your user base grows and content demands increase.

Also Check: How To Build An App Like iQIYI: A Video Streaming App

Step 4. Create great UI/UX design

Now comes the critical phase of designing the UI/UX for your live streaming app. As we mentioned in our blog post on product design, emphasising simplicity and ease of use is essential, as these factors significantly influence user retention and overall satisfaction. Here are key elements to focus on when developing your live video streaming app:

• Implement a clean and minimalist layout that prominently displays live content alongside interactive features such as chat and reaction emojis, fostering viewer engagement.
• Use clear, responsive buttons that allow users to easily start and stop streams.
• Ensure navigation for locating live and archived content is intuitive and easily accessible on the screen.
• Conduct usability testing with real users to pinpoint and resolve any friction points in the design.

Step 5. Build and test an MVP for your live streaming app

You might generate a plethora of ideas for features to implement in your live video streaming app, but the most effective way to evaluate them is by developing a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). An MVP is a simplified version of your app, incorporating only the essential functionalities required for it to operate. This streamlined approach enables you to gather user feedback efficiently. At this stage, it’s crucial to consider the technology stack for your live streaming app, which includes selecting programming languages, databases, messaging queues, and other critical components. However, three areas require particular focus: choosing an appropriate streaming protocol, platform, and content delivery network (CDN). As a business owner, you don’t need to manage all these aspects yourself; you can assign the responsibilities to your internal team or hire a software development company like iTechnolabs. It’s important to be aware of the key considerations during this segment of the live streaming app development journey.

Streaming protocol

There are two common protocols to stream video, namely:

The RTMP protocol, which stands for Real-Time Messaging Protocol, is commonly utilized for high-definition streaming, especially for live broadcasts at events such as concerts and conferences. One of the primary benefits of RTMP is its capacity to deliver superior audio and video quality. However, this advantage can come with a trade-off, as there tends to be a processing delay of about 10 to 20 seconds from the moment the content is captured to when it appears on the viewer’s screen.

Streaming platform

As previously noted, selecting a suitable platform for content streaming is crucial. In this context, Amazon Web Services (AWS) emerges as an excellent choice. It offers the essential tools needed to manage streams effectively, host your application, and ensure seamless content delivery to users.

Content Delivery Network (CDN)

Choosing the right CDN is essential for ensuring your live stream is both accessible and performs well for users. AWS CloudFront stands out as a viable option, powering various streaming services, including Netflix and AWS MediaLive. For applications that require real-time video rooms, Amazon Chime is an excellent choice, leveraging WebRTC technology.

Alternatively, if AWS does not meet your speed requirements, Agora.io offers an optimal solution for interactive real-time streams. Remember, there are no fixed rules when it comes to selecting the technology stack for live streaming applications. It is far more important to clearly define the issues you aim to address and tailor your technology choices to meet those needs.

Step 6. Release, maintain, and improve

In the end, the significant time and effort invested in discovery, testing, and MVP development culminate in a satisfying milestone: the product launch. While your experienced team will handle necessary tasks during this phase, there are several key considerations to bear in mind. Typically, the launch starts with a beta version, allowing you to collect valuable user feedback and make any needed adjustments to your app. Platforms like TestFlight for iOS and the Google Play beta feature for Android are often employed for this purpose.

Before the official launch, you must submit your app to the relevant app stores, ensuring compliance with the Apple App Store Review Guidelines and/or the Google Play Developer Policy Center requirements. Both app stores will review your submission to verify it meets their quality standards before your app becomes available for download. However, the work doesn’t end with the launch. After going live, it’s crucial to monitor user behaviour analytics on your live video streaming app, as this period often reveals significant insights. It is vital to consider these findings, conduct tests, and implement effective enhancements to the existing functionality.

How to Build a Live Video Streaming App: DIY Approach for Developers and Tech-Savvy Individuals

Our guide primarily assists startup owners and businesses in the process of developing a live video streaming app. For software engineers and individuals with technical expertise, a more hands-on strategy may be necessary for app creation. Here are several key considerations to keep in mind.

Technical Stack

• Choose the Right Tools: Select a technical stack that delivers optimal performance and scalability for your live video streaming app.
• Streaming Protocols: Research and implement suitable streaming protocols, such as RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol) for live video streaming or HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) for efficient content delivery over the web.
• Streaming Server Solutions: Explore options like Wowza or Red5 for robust streaming server capabilities. Consider utilizing cloud services like AWS (Amazon Web Services) or Google Cloud for enhanced scalability and reliability.
• Content Delivery Network (CDN): Opt for a suitable CDN, such as Akamai or Amazon’s CloudFront, to minimize latency and ensure smooth content delivery across various regions.
• Programming Languages and Frameworks: Select programming languages and frameworks that cater to real-time data processing and scalability. Node.js is a strong candidate for backend development, while React is widely used for front-end development, though other solutions may also suit your needs.
• Database Solutions: Implement databases such as MongoDB or PostgreSQL to effectively store user data and content metadata.

Security and compliance

Another crucial aspect is to implement the necessary security measures to safeguard user data and adhere to regulations such as GDPR and COPPA, among others. Utilize tools such as OAuth for secure authentication, and ensure data encryption with SSL/TLS. Conduct regular security audits to verify data protection effectiveness. It’s also important to employ secure transmission protocols like HTTPS and establish robust authentication mechanisms. Regarding compliance with data protection laws, the technical approach extends beyond mere tick-box exercises. You must configure your data architecture to uphold the right to be forgotten, guarantee that data collection practices are transparent and based on user consent, and encrypt sensitive information both during transmission and at rest. This may require a reassessment of your database schemas, the implementation of more detailed access controls, and the potential introduction of data anonymization techniques in your analytics processes.

User interface and experience

It’s widely recognized that a successful application, including live video streaming apps, hinges on exceptional UI/UX design. Your focus should be on creating a design that is simple, intuitive, and highly responsive. To ensure your user interface adapts seamlessly across various devices, consider leveraging frameworks such as React, Angular, or Vue.js. For instance, React’s virtual DOM feature enhances rendering efficiency and boosts app performance, which is vital for live streaming. You can utilize conditional rendering and media queries within your React components to make sure the layout and elements of your app resize appropriately for different screen dimensions. Additionally, incorporating interactive features like live chats or polls can significantly increase user involvement. For implementing live chats, technologies like WebSocket can be utilized, while state management libraries like Redux can effectively manage and respond to app state changes during user interactions for polling features.

Feature set expansion

To set your app apart from a crowded marketplace, it is essential to surpass basic streaming functionalities and incorporate sophisticated features. Consider adding support for multiple platforms, integrating virtual reality or 360-degree video capabilities for a more immersive viewing experience, or implementing AI-driven content recommendation systems to tailor experiences for users. But how can you effectively achieve this, and what technological solutions will you require?

VR and 360-degree video:

If your live video streaming app is focused on crafting immersive experiences, consider exploring tools like Unity and A-Frame. Unity provides a robust environment for developing a range of VR experiences, along with strong support for multiple VR devices. In contrast, A-Frame presents a more user-friendly option through its web-based framework, enabling you to build VR scenes using a syntax similar to HTML.

AI-powered content recommendations:

When looking to elevate your live video streaming application with personalized content, TensorFlow and PyTorch emerge as leading solutions. TensorFlow features a versatile architecture that allows computations to be distributed across multiple platforms, making it highly adaptable. On the other hand, PyTorch provides dynamic computation graphs, which facilitate a more intuitive approach to coding intricate AI models.

Testing and QA

A well-rounded testing strategy is crucial for ensuring that your live streaming application is both dependable and efficient. You may want to consider utilizing tools like Jest for unit testing in JavaScript, allowing you to verify the functionality of individual components within your app. For integration testing, Cypress is a strong option, as it simulates real user interactions to confirm that all elements are functioning harmoniously. Furthermore, it’s important to conduct load testing with software such as Apache JMeter or Locust to assess how your application behaves under high traffic, which is often encountered in live streaming environments.

Iterative development and feedback loop

Adopting an agile development methodology enables you to continually refine your live streaming application by responding to user feedback and evolving market trends. This approach allows for regular updates and the opportunity to test new features with smaller user groups, fostering a culture of responsiveness to user suggestions. Utilizing frameworks such as Scrum and Kanban can significantly enhance how you organize your development cycles and adjust priorities based on the feedback received.

To facilitate this process, various task management tools are available, with Jira and Trello being popular choices that help you monitor your live streaming app development tasks effectively. Although these insights do not encompass the entirety of the live video streaming app development process from a technical perspective, they serve as a foundational guide for what to consider and where to begin. With this context, let’s explore the essential features a robust live streaming app should include.

Suggested:Top 20 free Live Streaming Apps

Must-Have Features for a Live Streaming MVP

To create a minimum viable product (MVP) for your live streaming application, there are several key features that you should prioritize:

User sign-up/sign-in

An essential component of any software is a straightforward registration form that enables users to create an account and log into the application using their credentials.

Live streaming functionality

The primary function of a live video streaming app is to broadcast live video content. As such, this feature is critical for your MVP and should be user-friendly, reliable, and scalable.

Search and discovery

Users should be able to easily find and access live streams based on their interests. Implementing a search function and personalized recommendations can enhance the user experience and keep them engaged with your app.

User profile

Allowing users to create profiles and personalize their experience is a crucial aspect of any social or video-based application. This feature enables users to manage their information, view their activity, and interact with other users.

User gallery/archive

Including a feature that allows users to save and revisit previous live streams can greatly enhance the user experience. This feature is also beneficial for content creators as it allows them to showcase their past broadcasts.

Commenting/Rating system

Live streaming applications flourish when there is an element of social interaction. Consequently, incorporating a system for commenting and rating is crucial, as it enables users to provide feedback on the videos they watch.

Nice-to-Have Features for Live Streaming App

Once your minimum viable product (MVP) receives positive feedback from users, you can enhance the live video streaming app by integrating these features for a better user experience.

Social sign-up

This feature enables users to register using their social media accounts with just a single tap, eliminating the hassle of lengthy form completion. By integrating social media account registration into the onboarding process, you can significantly simplify user sign-up, allowing for quick and easy access to your app. Additionally, providing an email sign-up option alongside social media choices can cater to various user preferences.

Extended user profile

Enhancing user profiles beyond the standard name and profile picture can significantly enrich the user experience. Incorporating additional fields such as interests, preferences, location, and personalized settings fosters a more engaging platform. This detailed profiling allows users to make more meaningful connections within the app’s community by connecting individuals with similar interests and values.

Extended streaming features

Incorporating features such as filters and screen sharing can enhance the usability of the app, offering users more innovative ways to interact and create content. These advanced functionalities not only cater to a wider range of user preferences but also elevate the aesthetic appeal of the live streams. Furthermore, they simplify collaborative live sessions, making it easier for users to engage with one another effectively.

Chats

Implementing a chat function allows streamers to engage with their audience instantaneously. This real-time communication enhances the streaming experience by facilitating immediate feedback, enabling interactive Q&A sessions, and fostering a more vibrant dynamic between the streamer and viewers.

Extended search features

Expanding the search parameters can greatly enhance the user experience by allowing individuals to find videos based on specific criteria. For instance, users should be able to search for videos that are available within a certain distance from their current location. This tailored approach not only personalizes content discovery but also helps users connect with relevant and geographically pertinent media.

Feed

Introducing a more dynamic feed empowers users to take control over the types of content they receive. By allowing individuals to personalize their feeds, they can curate what they see based on their interests and interactions. This tailored approach not only fosters the discovery of new content aligned with their preferences but also enhances user satisfaction by prioritizing the content they genuinely enjoy.

Subscriptions

Offering a range of subscription options enables users to choose the level of engagement that best suits their needs. By implementing an easily manageable subscription system within the app, users can effortlessly oversee their preferences and settings. Additionally, to encourage commitment to the platform, discounts can be provided for subscribers who opt for 3-month terms or longer, creating an incentive for longer-term engagement while also enhancing user satisfaction.

Recommendations

Implementing an AI-driven recommendation engine that examines user preferences and viewing history can greatly boost content engagement and retention. By analyzing the streams viewed by an individual and comparing their patterns with those of other users who share similar interests, the engine can suggest relevant content tailored to each user’s unique tastes. This personalised approach not only enhances the user experience but also encourages exploration of new streams aligned with their interests.

Notifications 

This feature enables the app to deliver push notifications to users when engaging content is being streamed. For instance, users can receive alerts when they receive a response to a question they posted within the community, ensuring they stay informed and connected to relevant discussions.

Related: Live Streaming App Development Cost: App Like Kick and Rumble

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Live Streaming App?

On average, the cost to develop a live video streaming app ranges from $26,000 to $48,000, but this estimate is applicable for a single platform only. Be prepared to invest more if you aim to create apps for both Android and iOS. Additionally, the overall expenses will increase if you wish to develop a web version of the application. Below is a table outlining the estimated costs for developing one platform, based on an hourly rate of $50. Keep in mind that this does not include potential extra costs for design, quality assurance, project management, and other requested features.

How We at iTechnolabs Can Help You Develop a Live Video Streaming App?

iTechnolabs, a leading video streaming app development company has successfully developed a fully functional live streaming apps. Our expertise encompasses all stages of product development, from Discovery to product launch, ensuring a comprehensive approach to app creation. With our extensive experience, the iTechnolabs team is well-equipped to build effective live streaming video applications.

Also Check: How To Build An App Like Viu

Summary

Now that you have a clearer understanding of the most viable platforms for streaming content and the development process for a live video streaming app, you can appreciate the intricate balance between meeting business objectives and ensuring a seamless user experience.

It’s common to require the expertise of a dedicated streaming app developer to navigate this landscape successfully. Reach out to our team to discover more about how we can assist you in creating a minimum viable product for your live video streaming app.

FAQs

How do you create your own Live video streaming app?

Steps for Startup Owners to Develop a Live Video Streaming App

For startup founders, here are six essential steps to effectively create a live streaming application:

• Define Your Target Audience – Understand who your app is aimed at and tailor features to meet their needs.

• Determine Your Monetization Model – Choose how you plan to generate revenue, whether through subscriptions, advertisements, or in-app purchases.

• Select Streaming and Hosting Solutions – Decide on the appropriate platform for live streaming, storage, and data management to ensure a reliable service.

• Design User Interface and Experience – Create an intuitive and engaging UI/UX that enhances user interaction and satisfaction.

• Build and Test a Minimum Viable Product – Develop a basic version of your app to gather user feedback and identify necessary improvements.

• Launch and Sustain Your App – After release, continue to support and update your app to keep users engaged and address any issues that arise.

Is video streaming application development different from video streaming platform development?

Yes, developing a video streaming application focuses on creating software that allows end-users to access video content directly. In contrast, video streaming platform development involves building the entire backend infrastructure and services necessary to host, manage, and deliver that video content to applications or users.

Should you invest your time and money in your own live streaming system design or go with an off-the-shelf solution?

The development timeline for a basic live streaming system can range from 2 to 6 months, with estimated costs between $10,000 and $50,000. In contrast, more intricate live streaming software projects may take 6 to 12 months or even longer, with expenses potentially exceeding $100,000 based on the features and scope involved. Opting for pre-built solutions like Wowza Streaming Engine or IBM Cloud Video can significantly reduce costs, though this approach often limits the degree of customization available.

Should I also create a live streaming website?

Yes, incorporating a website alongside your app is a strategic decision, like to what platforms like TikTok do by mirroring app features on their website, or Twitch, which provides a comprehensive web experience in addition to its app. This strategy increases accessibility and fosters greater user engagement.

Is streaming app programming harder than coding other apps?

In general, developing a live video streaming app is indeed more intricate compared to creating standard applications. This complexity arises from the necessity to manage real-time data transmission, adapt to varying network conditions, and maintain synchronization between video and audio streams. Additionally, expertise in streaming protocols and the ability to manage scalable infrastructure are essential, contributing to the overall challenges associated with this type of development.

Is a Live video streaming app builder a thing?

Yes, there are indeed live video streaming app builders available, such as Appy Pie and BuildFire, which provide user-friendly interfaces and pre-designed templates for creating apps. However, opting for custom live streaming development is often more advantageous as it allows for greater flexibility, tailored features suited to specific requirements, and enhanced optimization for both performance and scalability.