Changes to Interactivity on IBM Video Streaming

Overview

IBM Video Streaming provides a modern, HTML5-based chat experience designed to support audience engagement across live and on-demand video content.

The chat module is integrated into the platform and is available on web, mobile web, iOS, and Android devices. It does not require legacy technologies such as Flash.

In addition to chat, IBM Video Streaming offers interactivity tools such as Q&A, polling, and embeddable engagement modules to support audience participation during events.

Chat Module Capabilities

The chat module includes features for both broadcasters and viewers.

Moderation Controls

Channel administrators and moderators can manage chat activity using several moderation options.

• Delete messages
• Temporarily or permanently ban users
• Unban users
• Enable Slow Mode
• Enable Pause Mode
• Pin important messages to the top of the chat

Moderators must be added through the channel’s Interactivity settings in the dashboard.

Viewer Engagement Features

Viewers can participate in live and organized discussions using the available chat features.

• Participate in real-time chat conversations
• Reply in threads for structured discussions
• React to messages using emojis
• Join topic-based chat rooms, if enabled

These features help support more organized and interactive conversations during live events.

Chat Rooms and Collaboration

Chat rooms can be used to organize conversations around different topics or event segments.

• Broadcasters can create multiple chat rooms for different topics.
• Viewers can switch between rooms during a stream.
• File and image sharing can be enabled or disabled by moderators.

This functionality is useful for larger events that require segmented discussions or breakout-style conversations.

User Identity

When joining chat, viewers are prompted to enter a nickname.

• Viewers can choose a nickname when they join.
• Nicknames can be updated at any time.

Additional Interactivity Tools

IBM Video Streaming includes additional tools that can help increase audience engagement beyond chat.

• Q&A Module: Allows structured question submission and moderation.
• Polling: Allows broadcasters to collect real-time audience feedback.
• Embeddable Interactivity: Allows chat and Q&A modules to be embedded alongside the video player on external websites.

These tools can be configured and embedded using the platform dashboard.

Supported Platforms

The chat and interactivity modules are supported across the following platforms:

• Desktop browsers
• Mobile browsers
• iOS devices
• Android devices

The HTML5-based implementation provides a consistent experience across supported devices without requiring plugins.