Why AV1 Isn't the Dominant Codec in Streaming Yet

In the rapidly evolving world of video streaming, the AV1 codec stands out as a promising technology. Developed by the Alliance for Open Media (AOMedia), which includes tech giants like Netflix, Google, Amazon, and Meta, AV1 offers around 30% more efficiency in video compression compared to its predecessors, such as HEVC and VP9. This efficiency allows for higher-quality video streaming at lower bandwidths, a crucial advantage in today’s data-driven world. Moreover, AV1 is royalty-free, which theoretically reduces costs for streaming device manufacturers and video providers.

Despite these advantages, AV1 has not yet become the universal standard for video streaming. Major streaming platforms like Max, Peacock, and Paramount Plus have yet to adopt it. The primary hurdle is hardware compatibility. For AV1 to function optimally, devices must have the necessary hardware support. While many modern devices, including TVs, phones, and streaming gadgets, have integrated AV1 decoders, older devices may struggle without resource-intensive software solutions.

The adoption of AV1 has been significant among some major platforms. Google started testing AV1 on YouTube in 2018, and Netflix incorporated it in 2021. Amazon Prime Video and Instagram Reels have also adopted AV1, and it is used in Microsoft Teams for screensharing. Browsers like Chrome, Safari, Edge, and Firefox support AV1, and chipmakers such as Nvidia, AMD, and Intel have released GPUs with AV1 capabilities. Apple integrated AV1 into its iPhone 15 Pro in 2023 and extended support across its iPhone 16 lineup.

However, the transition to AV1 is not without challenges. Encoding and decoding AV1 content require more computational power, which can increase costs and complexity. Additionally, some companies, like Roku, have expressed concerns about the potential cost implications of adopting AV1, citing fears of increased consumer prices.

Competing codecs like VVC (H.266) offer even greater compression efficiency, using 50% less data than HEVC, but they are not royalty-free. This creates a complex landscape where companies must weigh the benefits of AV1 against its challenges and the alternatives available.

Despite these obstacles, AOMedia and its members remain committed to AV1 as the future of streaming. They are actively working on overcoming these challenges and exploring the next generation of video codecs. As more devices become AV1-compatible and the technology matures, its adoption is likely to increase, potentially reshaping the streaming industry.

QuarkyByte provides insights and solutions to help businesses navigate these technological shifts. By leveraging our expertise, companies can better understand the implications of adopting new codecs like AV1 and make informed decisions that align with their strategic goals.