Ustream Viewer

Summary

Yesterday we tested the Ustream Broadcaster for you (click here to read the test), with which you can stream your videos into the far depths of the internet. Today we’re bringing you the app which functions as the perfect counterpart: Ustream Viewer. Although currently still in its beta phase, Ustream Viewer definitely has what it takes to make it big, as the numerous streams on the website indicate. Ranging from sports to entertainment and music, there’s something in it for everyone. The question is whether the app will go down as well as ustream.tv.

Ustream Viewer hasn’t yet gone beyond its beta phase but the app’s potential is already apparent.

On ustream.tv you’ll find streams from all corners of the earth and Ustream offers a big selection of streams that cover almost every subject area. The app is most well-known amongst my football crazy friends because on Ustream a hord of streams from all over the world scrimmage around the ol’ pigskin.

The following categories are listed on the ustream.tv website:

• Mobile
• Sports
• Entertainment
• Gaming
• Music
• Animals

Unfortunately, it’s not yet possible to search or narrow down a search within these categories on the app itself.

Both live and recorded streams can be watched on the go, and those of you who’ve read the review of the Ustream Browser app will no doubt recognize the possibilities of this. In this way streams being sent to Ustream by someone else can be watched live on your personal android device.

The search function finds every stream that’s available on the ustream.tv website.

With help of the menu buttons you can switch the chat function on and off within the stream itself. It’s not yet possible to take part in the chat, but at this point it’s important to remember that the app is still only available in the beta phase. Also, if you have a Ustream account the app doesn’t yet make it possible to access said account.

Bottom line:

Overall it should be said that the app still has some way to go before we can give it a better score. Basic functions like streaming are already satisfactory. The quality of the streams is generally quite good, and – depending on the connection – playback and live streaming run judder free. However, the app is still missing a few features which define ustream.tv.

All the requirements necessary to facilitate easy navigation are covered: two large tabs show a preview list with images and a search function for streams. Those of you who are looking for more are searching in vain, though. The simplistic android visuals are not exactly pretty, but they serve their purpose.

Controlling the app is by and large easy and intuitive.
 

If you’re connected via WiFi the stream will run smoothly, contingent on how many viewers are watching the stream. Using the app is a big strain on your battery. A 2G connection is less well suited; most often you’ll be able to see single images at 10 second intervals.

Until recently the app wasn’t as stable as it is now. A lot of users who’d had to deal with crashing problems complained. I didn’t experience any crashing when I tested the app, however. The teething problems seem to be over.
 

Ustream Viewer Beta gibt can be downloaded for free from the Android Market.