Why do some video streaming sites play adverts flawlessly, but the ‘actual’ content is a glitchy/lag-fest?

Question

For example in the UK ITV Player & 4OD are two popular channels streaming platforms. They both seem to have significant problems streaming consistently smooth TV content… But the adverts that play before & during are seemless HD.

In: Technology

Answer 1

If you’re watching live broadcasts, they cannot be preloaded, so they’re dependent on a continuous reliable connection. Ads on the other hand can be preloaded and thus don’t depend on a reliable connection.