Future Samsung devices could stream videos more efficiently

Most modern devices like computers, smartphones, tablets, and TVs use a codec called AV1 to stream high-quality videos while using less data than AVC, VP8, and VP9 codecs. Samsung is among the brands that use the AV1 codec. Today, a newer version of the codec, AV2, was announced. It claims to bring even higher quality videos while consuming less internet data.

Samsung's future devices could use the AV2 codec.

Alliance for Open Media (AOMedia), the group that develops the AV series codec, announced the AV2 codec today. It says that AV2 delivers better quality videos using less data compared to AV1. It could also help devices stream similar video quality at slower internet speeds, reducing video buffering issues. It will also be great as most content moves to 4K or even 8K resolution in the future.

The new codec offers improved visual quality range compared to the previous version, suggesting compatibility with Dolby Vision 2. The announcement also mentions enhanced support for AR and VR applications, hinting at Android XR potentially supporting AV2 at launch. The upcoming OS will debut alongside Samsung's first XR headset. The codec also supports split-screen viewing, which will be beneficial for streaming sports matches in split-screen mode.

AOMedia says that 53% of its member brands plan to upgrade to AV2 within the first year of the codec's launch, while it would reach 88% of members within two years. So, it is likely that it will be used in phones, tablets, and TVs that Samsung will launch in the near future.

AV1 was launched in 2018, and Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Netflix, and Samsung are Steering Committee members of AOMedia. Social media and video streaming services like Discord, Instagram, Netflix, Prime Video, Twitch, Vimeo, and YouTube use the AV1 codec.