Smooth Streaming
Smooth Streaming is a Microsoft adaptive bitrate streaming technology that dynamically adjusts video quality based on network conditions and device capabilities, delivering uninterrupted playback. It uses HTTP-based streaming with fragmented MP4 files to enable seamless switching between different quality levels during playback. Originally part of Microsoft's Silverlight platform, it has evolved into an open standard supported by various media players and services.
Developers should learn Smooth Streaming when building video streaming applications that require adaptive bitrate streaming for reliable playback across diverse network conditions and devices, such as in enterprise media delivery, live broadcasting, or video-on-demand services. It is particularly useful in environments where Microsoft technologies like Azure Media Services are integrated, as it provides efficient streaming with features like live encoding, DVR functionality, and broad client support including iOS, Android, and web browsers.