Video on demand (VOD) is a generic term covering several areas. It includes all video content requested on-demand by users. This could be premium movies or libraries of TV shows, sporting events or concerts. It could also include user-created video content. In addition, some IPTV operators are starting to offer the ability to see all the TV programs aired on their multichannel pay-TV channels in the previous 24 or 48 hours on demand. This video content is held in a constantly updated library hosted by their network.

VOD services are sold either on a pay-per-view basis or as monthly subscriptions. Bundling in flat-rate packages with multichannel subscriptions is also common. Gartner’s definition of VOD excludes free VOD downloads, which may be used to increase customers’ awareness of these services or to generate advertising revenue.