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Video files are large, and streaming them over the internet would be very difficult if it wasn’t for codecs. Codecs are continuously developing to optimize this technical workflow, and Versatile Video Coding is on the horizon when it comes to new and improved codecs.
In this post, we’re going to discuss everything you need to know about H.266 and Versatile Video Coding (VCC). We will discuss what this video codec is and what it is used for. From there, we will cover the benefits of streaming with a H.266 or VVC codec and talk about its current role in the online video streaming industry. We’ll also discuss some other common video streaming codecs.
To get started, let’s quickly run through the basics of encoding and codecs. We will explore the future of video coding with VVC and one of the most common video codecs, H.266.
What is Video Encoding?
Video encoding is an essential part of the live streaming process.
Before we dive into H.266 or Versatile Video Coding, let’s set the stage by reviewing encoding.
Encoding is the process of converting a video from one file format to another. Typically, this is used to convert the RAW video files that your camera captures into digital files that can be streamed over the internet.
The encoding process requires the use of an encoder, which comes in the form of both hardware and software. Hardware encoders are dedicated devices that serve the sole purpose of encoding. They are fast and reliable, but they are also bulky and expensive.
Software encoders are programs that you run on your computer. The current software encoding options are nearly as powerful as hardware encoders, but they start at just a fraction of the price. In some cases, they are free.
One major benefit of software encoders over hardware encoders is that software can be routinely updated as new versions come out without requiring additional purchases. Hardware encoders, on the other hand, cannot be updated unless users buy a newer model.
Encoding is not to be confused with transcoding, which refers to creating duplicate copies, or renditions, of a video in different sizes. The purpose of video transcoding is to provide some flexibility for viewers with different internet speeds so that everybody can access HD streaming without lagging or buffering.
What is video encoding? It is the process of taking your RAW video files and converting them into digital files that can be easily shared over the internet.
What is a Codec?
Codecs are used to compress video files, making them easier to send through the internet.
A codec is a technology that is used for encoding and decoding. The word “codec” derives from “coder-decoder.” Basically, this technology is used to condense chunks of data for easy transport and bring them back up to normal size once they’ve reached their destination.
There are different types of codecs for processing different types of media, but in this post, we’re covering video streaming codecs that are used in live streaming.
What is H.266 or Versatile Video Coding (VVC)?
Versatile Video Coding is one of the emerging video compression standards that is also known as VVC and H.266. The VVC codec is a block-based hybrid codec, which makes it highly complex and highly capable.
This standard was created by the Joint Video Experts Team (JVET) at ITU. This team set out to create a next-generation codec that would support the future of video streaming.
JVET started working on H.266 video codecs in the fall of 2017 and completed the final standard in July 2020. Even though VVC has been finalized for nearly a year, it is still not commonly used. Versatile video coding is very technically complex, and most standard streaming hardware is not yet equipped to use this codec.
VVC was created to work with developing technology for everything from 4K streaming to 16K streaming. To put this into perspective, 4K streaming is the best quality that most existing technology can handle at this point in time. Some streaming technology is capable of 5K streaming, and some streaming cameras can capture video in 6K. 16K streaming is definitely a futuristic vision at this point.
It is also important to note that there are some uncertainties about VVC codec licensing. At this point, it is unclear how a company should proceed to incorporate VVC into its program.
VVC is a new standard for compressing and sharing RAW video files in high-quality standards such as 4K.
Uses of VVC
In general, the VVC codec is used for video encoding. However, it has several other specific use cases, including video conferencing and OTT streaming. The main purpose is to make these types of streaming at 4K resolution.
Video conferencing and OTT streaming are both more important than ever, especially given the major cultural shifts we’ve seen over the past year in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. When the world shut down to slow the spread of the virus, business operations, education, and other day-to-day activities moved online. Video conferencing made this possible. OTT streaming trends show that watching shows and movies on smart TVs via OTT broadcasting also became more popular at this time.
VVC can also be used for 360 streaming which is quite revolutionary. 360 streaming, which is also known as immersive video streaming, provides a more lifelike viewing experience. This type of streaming is becoming more popular in business since it makes it possible to connect with the audience on the next level.
What can H.266 or VVC be used for? It can be used for 4K streaming and 360 streaming as well.
Benefits of Streaming with VVC
The main benefit of streaming with VVC or H.266 coding is the ability to stream in 4K. However, it is not exclusively for 4K streaming. As the name suggests, the VVC codec is very versatile. It can support everything from ultra-low to ultra-high resolution videos.
Another major benefit of VVC coding is that it is significantly more capable of efficient data compression than other leading codecs. That is what helps it to process such large files.
There is also an idea swirling that VVC coding could provide benefits beyond online video streaming. Specifically, comments have been made on its potential value to the online gaming industry. It could speed up video gaming which would make collaborative play more effective.
VVC codec is great for streaming in 4K and for online video gaming.
Is H.266 or VVC the Standard Codec?
H.266 or VVC is not yet the standard codec for video streaming. In fact, it is not even compatible with many of the major live streaming platforms and other technology at this time.
Some industry leaders are predicting that this will be the standard video streaming codec eventually since it provides support that other codecs do not, but we still may be a few years off from this. It cannot become the standard until other video streaming technology catches up.
What is VCC? VVC is the future of video streaming codecs.
H.266 Video: Future Prospects
H.266 video offers significant improvements in compression and coding efficiency, which means that it can deliver the same video quality at a lower bit rate.
With H.266, it’s possible to stream 4K and 8K video to devices with less powerful processors and less available bandwidth. VVC’s improved compression efficiency will also make it more feasible for virtual reality and augmented reality applications.
H.266 may also be used to improve the quality of existing video applications, such as webinars and online gaming.
Although H.266 or VVC is relatively new, it is gaining traction in the video industry. As an increasing number of devices and software start supporting VVC, it’s likely to become the dominant video compression standard in the coming years.
Final Thoughts
H.266 or Versatile Video Coding is very powerful and quite useful, but it is still on the rise as compatibility and support for this codec are not widespread at this time. However, we definitely expect to see more of this in the future.
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