The Open Media Alliance (AOM), which acts with the goal of fundamentally changing the online video experience, is planning to release a new generation video codec called AV2 by the end of the year. Most members foresee integrating AV2 into their systems within 12 months after the launch, and this step is considered a significant leap in video broadcasting.
AV2 primarily aims to deliver higher quality content with less data. This approach reduces the load on the network while maintaining the visual quality of the streamed video. Especially as high-resolution content like 4K and 8K increases, these advantages become more critical. The new codec stands out with innovations such as enhanced support for AR/VR applications beyond compression, multi-casting on split screens, and operation across a wide range of visual quality; the split-screen feature could open up entirely new use cases for sports matches and live events.
As a free and accessible alternative for everyone, AV2 is considered the successor to AV1, which faced challenges in widespread adoption due to patent issues, rather than the more common HEVC. Just as platforms like Netflix and YouTube have adopted it, AV2 is expected to gain broad acceptance.
A portion of alliance members states they will start using AV2 in 88% of their systems within two years after the launch. This indicates the codec’s rapid adoption potential across many devices. AV2 will not only make video streaming more efficient but will also provide a fundamental infrastructure for future technologies such as augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). Moreover, compatibility with new technologies like Dolby Vision 2 HDR promises significant improvements in visual quality.
