Driving the Future of Regional Content: An Exclusive Interview with Kaushik Das, CEO & Founder of AAONXT, Eastern India’s Premier OTT Platform

1. Tell us about yourself and AAONXT. Can you help demystify this jargon for our readers — Over the Top Technology mean?1.

AAONXT is East India’s leading OTT platform that aims to bring together original and indigenous regional Odia content for audiences. We offer a diverse collection of web series, feature films, documentaries, short films, and classic Odia songs. Our goal is to showcase the rich culture, tradition, and literature of Odisha to a global audience through our dedicated OTT platform.

Now, let’s demystify the term “Over the Top” (OTT) technology. It refers to the delivery of video, audio, and other media content over the internet directly to viewers without the need for traditional cable or satellite TV providers. OTT platforms enable users to stream content on-demand, at their convenience, across various devices such as smartphones, smart TVs, tablets, and computers. It provides a personalized and flexible viewing experience, giving viewers more control over what, when, and how they consume content.

2. How do OTT media services work? What does the implementation of hyper-personalization techniques by OTT service providers mean?

OTT media services work by leveraging the internet to deliver audio and video content directly to users. Service providers create or acquire content and make it available on their platforms for streaming. Users can access this content by subscribing to the OTT service and using compatible devices and software. Hyper-personalization techniques in the OTT space involve using data analytics, machine learning, and AI algorithms to understand user preferences, behavior, and demographics. This information is then used to deliver personalized recommendations, curated playlists, and targeted advertisements, enhancing the user experience.

3. What are the must-have tech features of OTT video streaming apps?

The must-have tech features of OTT video streaming apps include:

1. Seamless Streaming: Smooth and uninterrupted streaming of high-quality content is crucial. Adaptive streaming technologies, such as Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH) and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS), ensure optimized video quality based on the user’s network conditions.
2. Cross-Platform Compatibility: OTT apps should be compatible with a wide range of devices, operating systems, and screen sizes. This allows users to access content on their preferred devices.
3. Personalization and Recommendations: Implementing advanced algorithms for personalized content recommendations based on user preferences, viewing history, and demographic data helps enhance engagement and user satisfaction.
4. Offline Viewing: Allowing users to download content for offline viewing expands the accessibility and convenience of the platform.
5. Multiple Payment Options: Offering various payment methods, including digital wallets, credit cards, and carrier billing, makes it easier for users to subscribe and pay for services.
6. Social Sharing and Interaction: Integrating social media features within the app enables users to share their favorite content, engage with other users, and enhance the overall viewing experience.

4. Tell us about the Tech trends in the OTT space in India.

In the Indian OTT space, several tech trends are shaping the industry:

1. AI-driven Personalization: OTT platforms are leveraging AI and machine learning to deliver hyper-personalized content recommendations and user experiences.
2. Cloud Infrastructure: Cloud-based solutions enable scalable and cost-effective video encoding, storage, and content delivery, allowing OTT providers to handle increasing user demand and deliver seamless streaming experiences.
3. Live Streaming and Interactive Content: Real-time live streaming of events, interactive shows, and user participation through live chats or polls are gaining popularity, fostering greater engagement.
4. Enhanced Content Discovery: Advanced search and discovery features, including voice search, content tagging, and metadata optimization, are being used to improve content discoverability for users.
5. Monetization Strategies: OTT platforms are exploring innovative monetization models, such as targeted advertising, freemium models, and partnerships with brands and sponsors.

5. What differentiates AAONXT from its competitors when it comes to technology delivery?

What sets AAONXT apart from its competitors in terms of technology delivery is our commitment to innovation and our focus on regional content. We leverage cutting-edge technology to provide a seamless and personalized viewing experience to our users. Our platform embraces AI-driven algorithms to curate content, deliver personalized recommendations, and enhance user engagement. Additionally, our emphasis on original regional content sets us apart, catering specifically to the preferences and cultural interests of our Odia audience.

6. What are the challenges that most OTT platforms i.e., your customers face w.r.t. keeping up with the changing consumption behaviour among Indian viewers? How is AAONXT helping them address these challenges?

One of the key challenges that OTT platforms face is keeping up with the evolving consumption behavior of Indian viewers. Viewers are increasingly demanding personalized, diverse, and immersive experiences. AAONXT addresses these challenges by constantly analyzing viewer preferences and feedback to curate and produce content that resonates with our audience. We prioritize user-centric features, seamless streaming experiences, and intuitive navigation to ensure viewer satisfaction. We also keep a pulse on the latest industry trends to stay ahead and adapt to changing consumption patterns.

7. Real-time engagement is the future of on-demand video streaming, will AAONXT invest in something like this to be future ready?

Real-time engagement indeed holds great potential for the future of on-demand video streaming. While I can’t divulge specific investment plans, I can assure you that AAONXT is always exploring innovative technologies and strategies to enhance user engagement and stay future-ready. We recognize the value of real-time interactions and are actively evaluating ways to incorporate them into our platform to provide an enriched and immersive experience to our users.

8. Tell us about your innovation roadmap for the next 12 months.

Our innovation roadmap for the next 12 months focuses on several key areas. We aim to further enhance personalization through advanced recommendation algorithms and AI-driven content curation. We plan to expand our content library by collaborating with more regional creators and acquiring exclusive rights to compelling content. We will continue to invest in infrastructure, ensuring seamless streaming experiences and robust scalability. Additionally, we will explore emerging technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to offer unique and immersive experiences to our users. Our goal is to continually push boundaries and deliver the best-in-class technology and content to our valued viewers.`