Enjoying streaming services, you may be unaware they are categorized into specific subtypes with different usage rules. So today, we will delve into one of the most popular – TVOD.

What is TVOD? The acronym stands for Transactional Video on Demand – an over-the-top (OTT) media distribution system that charges users a one-time fee for a piece of content. While exploring the most popular streaming platforms, you may have already come across the option of a one-time purchase of a video not included in their subscription.

If you’re wondering about the meaning of this phenomenon and how it can contribute to your viewing experience, continue reading this guide.

How Transactional VOD Works

Like all OTT streaming services, Transactional VOD provides content over the Internet instead of analog methods such as cable or satellite for traditional television.

Users can pay a one-time price for a piece of such content to gain temporary or endless access to their favorite movies, TV shows, or documentaries on various devices like PCs, mobile phones, consoles, tablets, and more.

This distribution model represents a complete opposition to another OTT alternative – SVOD – which allows its users to use a library of content in exchange for a monthly subscription fee.

Transactional VOD examples:

  • Pay-per-view (PPV) – Users pay a one-time fee to access a single piece of content. Therefore, it is the best choice for real-time events like soccer matches.
  • Download-to-rent (DTR) – Users can purchase temporary access (usually up to two days) to a chosen piece of content, or in other words, rent it.
  • Electronic sell-through (EST) – Users can purchase permanent access to a piece of content.

Popular Transactional VOD Platforms

  • iTunes

It was one of the first Transactional VOD services in history, allowing users to buy or rent TV series episodes and movies. Today, iTunes focuses primarily on music but still offers a wide range of videos for a one-time fee.

  • Google Play Movies & TV

As part of the Google online store, Google Play Movies & TV offers a wide range of apps, games, and other entertainment. However, only some know that Google Play is also home to fantastic viewing possibilities.

For a one-time price, users can rent or permanently purchase classic and brand-new titles, including Mad Max: Fury Road, Kung Fu Panda 4, Hannibal, and more.

  • Amazon Prime Video

Although Amazon Prime is mainly known as an SVOD model provider, it also introduced Transactional VOD, making thousands of pieces of content available for rent or purchase.

This wide selection of viewing options includes new and classic titles like Rocky, The Silence of the Lambs, the Halo series, James Bond, and more.

  • Vudu

Unlike other services, Vudu combines Transactional VOD with Advertising Video on Demand (AVOD), meaning users can view some of its content after agreeing to watch ads. That attracted many new users, and today, the platform offers thousands of movies and TV shows in both models.

Advantages of Transactional VOD

By choosing Transactional VOD, customers don’t have to worry about paying for unwanted content. It is especially beneficial for people who don’t watch many TV shows except live sports events or educational content.

Such a strategy can result in effective money-saving, as users possess complete control over what they pay for and want to watch.

Disadvantages of Transactional VOD

If a user happens to buy or rent more titles than initially planned, Transactional VOD may become a bit pricey. Also, this model may not offer as much content as other SVOD libraries, which results in lower viewing satisfaction.

Consumer Tips for Using Transactional Video-on-Demand

If Transactional Video-on-Demand sounds fun, check which sites offer the most content you’d like to see. Then, compare these findings with available prices to combine the ideal viewing experience with money-saving.

Also, consider whether one-time purchasing or renting media fits your lifestyle better than subscribing to a typical SVOD service. Depending on how much of your dream content you plan to watch, one of these systems should meet your expectations.

Conclusion

Transactional Video-on-Demand is a media distribution subtype allowing users to rent or purchase content for a one-time fee.

Thanks to its massive flexibility, viewers can enjoy ideal control over their expenses and viewing choices. It’s perfect for those seeking valuable educational materials or enjoying live sports events in real-time.

And since increasingly more streaming services include this option in their offers, everyone can adjust viewing experiences to their needs.