Understanding HLS and Muvi Streaming Hours Usage

Introduction

HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) powers some of the world's most popular OTT platforms and streaming services. To deliver a seamless viewing experience, HLS channels rely on a dedicated streaming infrastructure that continuously generates and delivers content to viewers.

Streaming hours measure the amount of time the streaming infrastructure/server remains active to generate and deliver HLS output for your channels. In simple terms, streaming hours reflect the resources being used to keep your channels live and available to viewers.

What Is HLS?

HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) is an industry-standard streaming technology used by OTT platforms, TV applications, and live streaming services worldwide.

HLS is designed to deliver a superior viewing experience through features such as:

• Adaptive Bitrate Streaming (ABR) for smooth playback across varying internet speeds
• Broad device compatibility across web browsers, mobile devices, smart TVs, and streaming devices
• Ad insertion support for monetization opportunities
• Reliable delivery for large-scale audiences

Because of these advantages, HLS is widely used for:

• OTT TV channels
• News channels
• Sports channels
• Entertainment channels
• Professional live streaming services

How HLS Works?

Unlike a video file that is stored and played on demand, an HLS channel is continuously generated and updated while it is live.

To provide viewers with a smooth and reliable experience, the streaming infrastructure/server continuously:

• Generates and updates the HLS playlist (.m3u8)
• Creates media segments for playback
• Produces multiple bitrate versions for adaptive streaming
• Monitors stream delivery to ensure uninterrupted playback

These processes work together behind the scenes to ensure viewers can access your channel anytime and enjoy the best possible playback quality based on their network conditions.

What Are Streaming Hours?

Streaming hours measure the amount of time the streaming infrastructure/server remains active to generate and deliver HLS output for your channels.

In simple terms, streaming hours reflect the resources being used to keep your channels live and available to viewers.

Examples

A 24×7 channel continuously uses streaming resources while it remains active.

Streaming Hours are charged based on the total time your stream remains active on Muvi's servers. Once a live stream starts, the server begins processing and delivering the content, and Streaming Hours are consumed for the entire duration of the stream, regardless of the number of viewers. To learn more about the streaming hour prices, click here.