As smartphones and associated software development meet the standards of professional broadcasting, mobile live streaming is becoming more popular. Because it is generally simple and cost-effective, this method of broadcasting is frequently more accessible.

We'll go over all you need to know regarding broadcasting from your smartphone in this article. We'll go over the advantages of this streaming configuration as well as the technology that makes it feasible. Before going into the many items to consider when constructing your mobile live streaming setup, we'll go over some essential information on how to live stream from your phone.

Why use Mobile Live Streaming?

The simplicity and cost of mobile streaming are two factors that make it so appealing. Streaming from a device you already own is far more cost-effective than purchasing a whole recording setup.

Using your phone to stream events and happenings that occur outside of your studio or office is a terrific way to keep up with what's going on. Sporting events, fundraisers, workplace events, and local news may all benefit from this type of broadcasting system.

During the epidemic, several news organisations and reality show producers have turned to stream and film on mobile devices to capture moments and create content. People might videotape themselves without putting camera crews or production teams in danger.

Nothing surpasses a studio recording setup with TV-grade cameras and technology, but in some cases, a mobile streaming setup comes in useful.

Technology behind Mobile Streaming

When it comes to the technology underpinning mobile broadcasting, the most crucial item to note is the mobile devices themselves. Over the last decade, these gadgets have progressed tremendously.

For example, the iPhone 12 Pro includes a camera that enables HDR and 4K shooting at up to 60 frames per second. Stabilization, night mode, audio zoom, and other sophisticated recording features are also supported.

Only 1080p HD video recording at 30 fps or 60 fps is supported by the iPhone 6, which was introduced six years ago. On this phone, broadcasting is feasible, but the clarity of the stream will be far less professional.

The advancement of smartphones from prior generations to the ones we have now has made professional mobile live broadcasting much more feasible.

The technology underlying live streaming is nearly identical to the technology behind streaming from a camera, except for the recording devices and the programme you use for encoding.

Your phone records the footage, which is then processed by a separate app. The software encodes your video and applies any overlays or preset graphic effects you've configured. The programme uses RTMP ingest to transfer the file to your online video platform. The files are subsequently sent to the content delivery network, where they are delivered to HTML5 video players through the HLS streaming protocol by its servers.

How to live stream from phone?

1. Prepare your Stream

You'll need a few different types of apps, software, and live streaming equipment to properly live stream from your iPhone or another mobile device.

Before we get into the process of selecting and configuring these tools, it's critical to discuss how you'll intend to achieve your unique objectives. You've probably thought out who you want to target and what kind of material you want to share with them, but have you planned out how they'll get to your stream?

2. Choose an online Streaming Platform 

We recommend utilising a professional online video platform like Diecast to host your broadcast, regardless of where you're streaming to because it will provide you access to professional services like tech support, monetization, security, branding customisation, and more.

Simulcasting allows you to simultaneously stream to your website or app and Facebook, but this is something to consider before getting started.

3. Choose a mobile streaming app

The next step is to find a mobile streaming app that supports RTMP encoding and is compatible with your video streaming platform. We'll go through a couple of the best RTMP ingest alternatives shortly, but be sure that the program you choose has the functionality you need to achieve your streaming goals. Choose an app that has text and visual overlays, for example, if it is crucial for your specific needs.

4. Connect your OVP and streaming app

After you've decided on an online video platform and software, you'll need to link them together. Each combination's setup will be different, but for basic connecting steps, see our guide to living streaming from your iPhone. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require further information.

5. Create a detailed plan

Before you get started, it's also a good idea to have a thorough video content strategy for your stream. Make a script or a list of the topics you'd like to address. If someone is photographing a topic or an event without being on camera, they should know what angles to shoot from. This shouldn't be an issue if the subject (whether you or an acquaintance) is recording with the front camera.

6. Test your setup

After that, test your streaming setup with a few trials runs to ensure everything is working properly. It's better to make errors and iron out the kinks before broadcasting live to an audience.

7. Start Streaming

It's time to get started after you're certain that your setup will allow you to broadcast smoothly. Start your broadcast by rolling the camera.

4 Tips for improving mobile stream

Previously, mobile live streaming was linked with low quality and unprofessional outcomes. There are, however, a few things you can do to improve your mobile live streaming skills.

Here are four suggestions for a successful mobile broadcast.

1. Find Great Lighting

The quality of your video clip is greatly influenced by the lighting. Because you'll be broadcasting on the move, you won't have the same professional lighting setup as you would in a studio.

Although some recent smartphone cameras include nighttime settings, the majority do not, making live broadcasting in the dark a bad idea. Other lighting settings can also be problematic.

Fortunately, there are a variety of approaches you may take to deal with low lighting. Please see No Film School's guide on film lighting for more details.

2. Use smart shots and angles

Your subject's appearance in the video is determined by the shots and angles you pick. Indeed, you may deliberately employ angles and images to communicate a message or create the tone for your material.

Studio Binder provides a fantastic guide to film camera views and angles, which we highly suggest.

3. Pay attention to audio

The audio quality of your live stream is critical. There are a few things you can do to increase the quality of your mobile live stream.

It's an excellent idea to utilise an external microphone as we recommended. Even while many new smartphones have excellent cameras, the built-in mics may be better. A low-cost lapel mic will make a significant impact.

Also, keep an eye out for background noise. While some noise is unavoidable, recording near a lawnmower, a busy road, or a huge crowd may drown out your voice in the broadcast.

An external mic would almost certainly help here, but make sure you test your setup on-site beforehand to ensure you can achieve the results you want with the equipment you have.

4. Use a reliable internet connection

To watch without interruption, you'll need a fast and secure internet connection. The best connection for live streaming is a tethered internet connection, but that isn't an option while broadcasting from your smartphone. The next best option is to use a private Wi-Fi network. A private hotspot is an excellent option if you're in public.

Cellular data should only be used as a last option. It is a less trustworthy alternative.

Screen Recorder

You can now share with the world your experience while broadcasting anything on your mobile, by using the best screen recorder available in market, AppScreenRecorder. The app will allow you to learn from the basics of screen recording like “what is screen recording?” or “What is a screen recorder?” to be able to seamlessly record the screen while also smashing to new levels in the game.

Though this app is now available for both android as well as ios users. So, log in to your app stores and give this amazing screen recorder a try.

Final Thoughts

Using your phone to live stream events and generate video outside of your office or studio is a terrific way to cover events and create content. It's really simple to accomplish, and it's far less expensive than filming with professional equipment.

Do you want to learn more about Dacast's mobile live streaming? Contact our customer service team, and one of our expert professionals will gladly answer any queries you may have.