HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) is a media streaming protocol developed by Apple. It allows users to stream audio and video content over the internet in real-time. HLS works by breaking the media into small segments, which are delivered to the viewer's device as needed, ensuring smooth playback even with varying internet speeds. HLS is widely used for live broadcasts and on-demand video services. It supports adaptive bitrate streaming, meaning it can automatically adjust the quality of the stream based on the viewer's connection. This feature enhances the user experience by minimizing buffering and interruptions during playback.