OBS Studio Introduces WebRTC and WHIP Support: A Game Changer for Live Streamers

Live streaming has taken the world by storm, and Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) Studio is at the forefront of this revolution. Known for its open-source broadcasting and recording program, OBS Studio is utilized by content creators across the globe. From gamers streaming their gameplay to educators conducting online classes, OBS Studio has become a staple in the industry.

In its continuous mission to improve and innovate, OBS Studio recently announced the addition of Web Real-Time Communication (WebRTC) and WebRTC HTTP Ingest Protocol (WHIP) support to its software​​.

Unveiling the WebRTC and WHIP Support in OBS Studio

WebRTC, a free, open-source project, enables real-time communication via simple APIs. It allows audio and video communication to work inside web pages by allowing direct peer-to-peer communication, eliminating the need to install plugins or download native apps.

WHIP, on the other hand, is an application-level protocol that allows WebRTC encoders to push media streams to a media server. This is pivotal in reducing latency and improving the overall streaming experience.

The addition of WHIP output and associated service to OBS Studio was announced on June 10, 2023​​. The code was inspired by DDRBoxman and implemented by Sean DuBois and tt2468, with various fixes and contributions by pkv​​.

How Does This Benefit Live Streamers?

The integration of WebRTC and WHIP support into OBS Studio offers several advantages to live streamers:

Real-Time Communication: With WebRTC, live streamers can now enjoy real-time, high-quality audio and video communication. This is especially beneficial for interactive live streams where communication with the audience is key.

Reduced Latency: WHIP aids in minimizing latency, ensuring that the interaction between streamers and their audience happens in real-time. This is crucial for gaming streams where even a slight delay can affect the gaming experience.

Enhanced Streaming Experience: The combination of WebRTC and WHIP provides a seamless and high-quality streaming experience. This helps retain audiences and increase viewer engagement.

Wrapping Up

The introduction of WebRTC and WHIP support is a testament to OBS Studio's commitment to staying at the forefront of live streaming technology. It not only enhances the overall streaming experience but also opens up new possibilities for real-time, interactive live streams.

As OBS Studio continues to innovate and push the boundaries of live streaming, one can only anticipate what they have in store for the future. Stay tuned for more updates and improvements from OBS Studio!

Article written by
Sylvain Corvaisier

Independent streaming and iOS engineer

Last modified: January 27th, 2025