Introduction to Next-Generation Video Streaming
As an IT specialist, there’s always something new on the horizon. Lately, I’ve been particularly captivated by the developments in the video streaming sector. With video traffic predicted to be over 82% of all consumer Internet traffic by 2022 (According to Cisco Systems), the innovation in next-generation video streaming is highly important. However, the evolution in video content, especially with the rise of 4K UHD and VR, requires constant adjustments and advancements in video compression techniques.
The Need for Compression Techniques
Video compression is at the heart of the global digital infrastructure, enabling efficient delivery of high-quality video content to users all over the world. However, higher-resolution videos, such as 4K and 8K, demand much higher bandwidth. To cater to these needs without overloading networks, improved compression methods are needed. These techniques remove repetitive and non-essential data to shrink file sizes and ensure seamless streaming.
Latest Compression Techniques
H.265 (HEVC)
One of the most well-known compression standards is H.265, also known as High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC). Compared to its predecessor, H.264, HEVC offers a significant improvement in data compression ratio while maintaining the same level of video quality. Moreover, it can support 8K UHD and resolutions up to 8192×4320.
- Efficient compression without compromising quality
- Support for resolutions up to 8K UHD
- Superior video quality at lower bit rates
VP9
VP9, developed by Google, offers similar benefits as H.265. It was initially utilised by YouTube for delivering high-resolution videos. The main advantage of VP9 is its royalty-free usage, an attractive attribute for developers seeking to cut costs.
- Royalty-free usage advantages
- Support for high-resolution videos
AV1
Formulated by the Alliance for Open Media (AOM), the AV1 sets a new standard for video compression. It offers roughly 30% more compression than HEVC or VP9 without any change in quality.
- Improved compression
- Royalty-free codec encouraging wider adoption
Futuristic Compression Techniques
In the ever-evolutive field of technology, efforts are being directed towards even more advanced video compression techniques to cater to the growing demand of high-quality video content.
VVC (H.266)
Versatile Video Coding (VVC), also called H.266, is the current focus of video compression research. It promises a 50% better compression rate than HEVC while maintaining the same level of video quality.
- Anticipated to offer improved compression rates than HEVC
- Still under research
EVC (Essential Video Coding)
EVC promises a 20% improvement on HEVC with a royalty-free baseline tier. The idea is to extend the accessibility of advanced codecs to a more comprehensive range of users and developers.
- A blend of advanced capability and affordability
- Royalty-free usage benefits
As IT specialists, we are eager to see the advancement of compression techniques supporting the next generation of video streaming services. The importance of maintaining a balance between quality content, network bandwidth, and seamless, hassle-free user experiences has never been greater. It’s a captivating era for innovations in video streaming, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.
