Outstream video, commonly referred to as outstream video ad, is a type of video advertisement that plays outside of a video player or video content. Unlike instream video ads, which play before (pre-roll), during (mid-roll), or after (post-roll) a video content that a user has chosen to watch, outstream videos are displayed in text content, between paragraphs or as a standalone unit within a webpage. They usually start playing automatically when in view (often muted) and pause when out of view. The main advantage of outstream video is that it allows publishers to monetize their content with video ads, even if they don’t have video content of their own.
How does outstream video differ from instream?
First and foremost, it’s crucial to establish a foundational understanding. When it comes to the realm of online video advertising, two distinct ad formats prevail: outstream video and instream video.
Outstream video is a video ad unit that autoplays outside a video player. An intriguing point? It’s called outstream because the video ad doesn’t need to be within video content to play. This unique characteristic sets it apart. Outstream video ads are placed within content, often between paragraphs of text or alongside other content formats. They differ from display ad formats like banner ads, offering an interactive experience to users.
Instream vs. Outstream: Which is more effective for advertisers?
The debate rages on. Instream or outstream video? Let’s dissect.
Understanding Instream
Instream video ads are placed directly within a video stream. Think pre-roll, mid-roll, and post-roll ads on YouTube. They appear before, during, or after the actual video. It’s like a commercial during a TV show.
Enter Outstream
Outstream video? A different beast. It doesn’t need a video player. These ads pop up in between text paragraphs or sidebars. They start playing when they’re visible on your screen. No existing video content? No problem. Outstream fits.
Effectiveness: The Debate
For engagement, instream has its merits. Users are already viewing a video, so they’re primed for video content. However, it can be interruptive. Suddenly, you’re watching an ad you didn’t opt for.
Outstream video, on the other hand, casts a wider net. Websites without video content can still display video ads. It reaches audiences beyond video platforms. But, there’s a catch. If not executed correctly, they can feel out of place.
The Verdict
So, which is better? Depends. Consider your target audience, platform, and message. While instream has the advantage of a captive audience, outstream offers more placement versatility. Advertisers need to weigh the pros and cons.
The Rise of Outstream Video Advertising
The demand for video content has surged, and with this rise, outstream video advertising has carved a niche for itself. One of the benefits of outstream is that publishers without video content can sell space for video ads. This creates opportunities beyond video players, allowing ads for publishers to reach a broader audience.
Types of Outstream Video Ads
There are three main types of outstream video ads:
In-feed ads:
These ads are ads that appear when scrolling through content.
In-text outstream video ads:
Ads placed within the content, triggering as readers engage with the text.
Native video ad:
A type of video ad designed to match the look and feel of its surrounding content.
Instream vs Outstream: The Key Differences
Placement:
While instream video ads are placed within the video stream of a publisher’s video content, outstream video ads are situated outside of traditional video players. They are usually incorporated within the textual content or appear alongside other forms of media.
Dependency:
Instream ads require users to watch video content. Outstream videos, however, don’t need an accompanying video to play, as they exist outside of traditional video players.
User Experience:
Instream video ads can sometimes disrupt the viewing experience, especially if they’re unskippable. Outstream video ads allow for a more fluid experience, often starting muted and playing as users scroll.
Pros and Cons
Every ad format has its advantages and disadvantages. Outstream video ads, for instance, offer publishers without extensive video content a chance to monetize through video advertising. However, there are also disadvantages of outstream video ads, such as potential intrusiveness if not implemented correctly.
What are the types of outstream video ads?
There are three main types of outstream video ads:
In-feed ads:
As the name suggests, these in-feed ads are ads nestled within content streams, perhaps appearing as you scroll through a news site or social feed. They’re designed to blend in, providing a seamless experience.
Native video ads:
This type of video ad is crafted to match the look and feel of its environment. An example of outstream in its purest form, these ads might appear within articles, providing relevant content in video format.
Floating or sticky ads:
Ads that hover or stick to a portion of the page as users scroll, ensuring visibility.
How do outstream ad placements work?
So, how do these outstream placements function?
- Autoplay Mechanism: The video advertising unit that autoplays is a star feature. But here’s a twist. Outstream video ads don’t blast audio unexpectedly. They start muted, respecting the user experience.
- Within the Content: Unlike video ads within a designated player, outstream videos exist within text-heavy content. As you scroll, these ads can also appear, capturing attention without being too pushy.
- Flexibility: Outstream videos can be placed outside of traditional video players. This means they’re not tied to a publisher’s video content. They can be in news articles, social feeds, or even shopping sites.
Why should publishers use outstream video advertising?
In today’s dynamic digital landscape, publishers constantly seek innovative ways to monetize their content. Enter outstream video advertising—a game-changer in the realm of online advertising. Let’s delve into the compelling reasons behind its rising popularity among publishers.
Unlocking New Opportunities
Ever scrolled through an article and suddenly, a video ad plays? That’s an outstream video. Unlike instream video ads, which play within the video content you intend to watch, outstream ads appear in the middle of text content. They’re called outstream because the video ad doesn’t need a traditional video player.
Maximizing Revenue Streams
For publishers, outstream video ads allow for a lucrative revenue stream. How? They don’t need to produce their own online video content to host these ads. So, even text-heavy sites can join the video advertising bandwagon.
Enhancing User Engagement
Yes, banner ads are common. But the visual allure of video? Unbeatable. Outstream placements are designed to captivate without overwhelming, autoplaying muted for a non-disruptive user experience. Users can engage if they wish or keep scrolling.
Flexible Placement Options
Outstream videos can be placed within articles, sidebars, or even as in-feed ads, making them versatile. This flexibility translates to better ad visibility and higher potential for user interaction.
Addressing Common Concerns
However, it’s worth noting that there are disadvantages of outstream video ads. Some users find them intrusive. But with the right strategy, like ensuring ads appear within relevant content, publishers can mitigate this.
What are native video ads and how do they relate to outstream?
Native video ads are a buzzword in the advertising landscape. But what are they, and where does outstream fit into the picture? Let’s break it down.
Native video ads are designed to blend seamlessly with the platform they’re on. Unlike banner ads, which clearly stand out, native ads mimic the content format and style of the platform. They’re ads, but they don’t scream it. Instead, they feel organic. This design increases user engagement since the content doesn’t appear obtrusive.
Outstream Videos: A Subtype of Native?
Outstream video ads are a unique type of video ad. They’re called outstream because they’re served outside of a traditional video player. Instead of appearing within video content, like in-stream video ads, outstream placements pop up between paragraphs of text or in other non-video areas.
So, how does outstream relate to native? Simple. Outstream video ads can also be native. When an outstream video ad is formatted to match the look and feel of the surrounding content on a website, it’s a native outstream ad.
Benefits and Challenges
The benefits of outstream are plenty. They provide publishers with flexible ad placements beyond video players. This means even websites without their own video content can host video ads. Plus, outstream video ads allow for a more widespread reach of online video content.
Yet, it’s essential to understand the disadvantages of outstream video ads. Some users find them interruptive. It’s vital for publishers to ensure these ads appear within relevant content to mitigate potential annoyance.
FAQ: Outstream Video Advertising
Q1: What is the primary goal of outstream video ads?
A: The primary goal of outstream video ads is to provide publishers without traditional video content the opportunity to monetize their sites using video advertising, expanding their reach and increasing engagement.
Q2: Do users have control over outstream video ads when they autoplay?
A: Yes, most outstream video ads start muted and give users the option to unmute, pause, or close the ad. This ensures a user-friendly experience.
Q3: Are outstream video ads mobile-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Outstream video ads are designed to be responsive and can adapt to various screen sizes, making them suitable for both desktop and mobile viewing.
Q: How do outstream video ads impact page load times?
A: With advancements in technology, outstream video ads are optimized for minimal impact on page load times. However, the exact impact can vary based on the ad’s size, quality, and the hosting platform.
Q5: Can outstream video ads be targeted like other online ads?
A: Yes, outstream video ads can utilize the same targeting methods as other online ads. This includes targeting based on demographics, interests, browsing behavior, and more.
Q6: How are outstream video ads priced?
A: Outstream video ads can be priced using various models, including Cost Per Mille (CPM), Cost Per View (CPV), or Cost Per Completed View (CPCV). The choice depends on the campaign’s objectives and the advertiser’s preference.
Q7: What’s the primary difference between outstream and native video ads?
A: While both aim to offer a non-intrusive user experience, outstream video ads specifically play outside of traditional video players, often within text content. Native video ads, on the other hand, are designed to blend seamlessly with the platform or site’s content in style, format, and tone.
Q8: Can outstream video ads appear on social media platforms?
A: Yes, outstream video ads can appear in social media feeds or articles linked on these platforms. They are especially prevalent in platforms that emphasize content reading, offering a blend of video advertising in textual contexts.
Q9: Is user engagement higher for outstream video ads compared to traditional ad formats?
A: Outstream video ads, due to their unique placement and format, often attract more attention and can lead to higher engagement compared to static display ads. However, actual engagement can vary based on content quality, relevance, and user preferences.
Q10: Are there any best practices for implementing outstream video ads?
A: Key best practices include ensuring the ad is relevant to the surrounding content, starting with muted autoplay to avoid disrupting users, optimizing for mobile viewing, and analyzing metrics to refine ad placement and content continually.
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