Soft Real-Time

Soft real-time refers to a system where tasks need to be completed within certain time limits to function effectively, but occasional delays are acceptable without causing major issues. For example, streaming video or audio requires data to arrive quickly enough for smooth playback, but small delays won't break the experience entirely. Unlike hard real-time systems, which must meet strict deadlines or fail, soft real-time systems tolerate minor timing lapses while still performing their primary function reliably. The goal is to balance timely processing with flexibility, ensuring good performance without strict, unyielding timing constraints.