HLS
HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) is an adaptive bitrate streaming protocol developed by Apple for delivering live and on-demand video content over HTTP. It works by breaking the video stream into small HTTP-based file segments, allowing clients to dynamically switch between different quality levels based on network conditions. It is widely supported across devices and platforms, including iOS, Android, and web browsers.
Developers should learn HLS when building video streaming applications, especially for cross-platform compatibility and adaptive streaming scenarios. It is essential for delivering high-quality video to mobile devices, smart TVs, and web browsers, as it handles network fluctuations by adjusting video quality in real-time. Use cases include live sports broadcasts, video-on-demand services like Netflix, and educational platforms.