Google is working on a new compression algorithm, an open-source codec dubbed VP10, which will reduce the size of 4K videos by 50 percent.
The VP10 codec is the successor of VP9 and is poised to shrink the bandwidth required for streaming 4K videos to nearly half of its predecessor's. The codec is also set to give H.264, Apple's preferred format for compression, a run for its money since the VP10 codec will require a quarter of the bandwidth when compared to this format.
Google currently deploys VP9 for 4K videos on Chrome and YouTube and intends to release VP10 by the end of 2016. The beans of the impending compression system that is more effective in comparison to VP9 were spilled by James Bankoski, Google engineering's product manager.
"We are trying to cut it [VP10] in half again," stated Bankoski in an interview.
It is also anticipated that VP10 will bring a gamut of enhancements when compared to its predecessor VP9, such as speedier frame rates, improved dynamic range for shadows and highlights, as well as a bigger color range.
While VP10 is expected to take a maximum of two years to become a reality, since it needs 40 percent more labor for decoding when compared to its predecessor, the older VP9 codec's competition will be HEVC or H.265 technology. This technology offers more support that will extend to not only smartphone processors, but also cameras and Blu-ray discs, as well as other spheres that go beyond video streaming.
However, with Bankoski optimistic about having the standard ready by 2016's end, the VP10 codec technology looks promising.
"We're hoping to hit the performance target by the end of next year," noted Bankoski.
After this, it will be up to Google's software and hardware partners to integrate support for the VP10 codec into their products. An edge VP10 will have over rival codecs such as H.264 is that VP10 is free, as well as open-source.
