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A new standard for better HD video streaming

technologyEdward Kiledjian

Over the last couple of years, we have been treated a fantastic group of web TV and movies streaming services (Netflix, HULU, BBC iPlayer, etc). These services are wonderful when they work smoothly and f...r...u.s....t....r...a...t..i.....n..g when they don't (buffer pains anyone). Now imagine what high definition (and even ultraHD) would do to an already bad streaming situation.

The MPEG group submitted a new proposal which was quickly adopted by the ITU as the next generation streaming standard (now called H.265). At the very core, it halves the bandwidth requirement compared to the current standard. The new High Efficiency Video Coding standard currently includes 8-bit, 10-bit and photo profiles to accommodate most 2D recording and playback.  Expect 3D, Chroma, 12-bit and other profiles to follow as the standard develops.

I love it when technology actually makes our lives easier and more enjoyable. Raise your glass for smoother, higher quality video.