Vodafone, Meta, and Google have jointly released a new white paper highlighting the benefits of the AV1 video codec, an advanced video compression technology that can significantly improve video streaming on low- and mid-tier smartphones.
The companies argue that AV1 adoption will not only deliver premium-quality video experiences on budget devices but also free up valuable network capacity, reduce computing power needs, and optimise storage for both users and providers.
Why AV1 Video Codec Matters
AV1 is a next-generation video compression standard that delivers up to 30% better compression compared to older codecs such as H.264 or VP9. This means:
- Higher-quality video at lower data rates
- Reduced buffering on slower or congested networks
- More efficient use of smartphone storage
Google and Meta have already adopted AV1 for their platforms, but hardware-level support remains limited, especially in entry-level and mid-range smartphones.
The Challenge with Low- and Mid-Tier Smartphones
Currently, most low- and mid-tier smartphones—priced between €25 and €250—do not include built-in AV1 hardware decoders.
- Low-tier devices: Struggle with smooth playback due to lack of codec support.
- Mid-tier devices: Perform slightly better but still fall short compared to premium smartphones.
This is a significant issue because low- and mid-tier devices account for around 75% of global smartphone sales.
Mobile Data Demand and Network Strain
Video content dominates mobile networks:
- 70%–80% of all mobile data traffic is video.
- With streaming demand rising, operators face growing capacity challenges.
By adopting AV1, mobile operators can:
- Free up network bandwidth
- Deliver smoother streaming experiences
- Reduce costs associated with data traffic congestion
Benefits for Content Providers and Manufacturers
Beyond the end-user experience, AV1 offers several advantages for content providers and smartphone manufacturers:
- For content providers: Reduced compute, lower energy consumption, and optimised caching resources at the edge.
- For smartphone makers: Embedding AV1 hardware in chipsets can give devices a competitive edge through improved energy efficiency and battery performance.
Recommendations from the White Paper
The Vodafone, Meta, and Google white paper suggests two key actions:
- Processor vendors should adopt AV1 hardware in new chipsets for better energy-efficient performance.
- If hardware is not possible, use software-based AV1 decoders to support streaming on existing low- and mid-tier devices as a transitional step.
Conclusion
With video streaming accounting for the majority of mobile traffic, the adoption of the AV1 codec represents a crucial step in improving the quality of experience for billions of smartphone users globally.
By enabling premium-like streaming on affordable devices, reducing network strain, and lowering energy costs for providers, AV1 could become a game-changer for the mobile video ecosystem.
