The next generation of open video technology is almost here and it’s called AV2 Codec. Developed by the Alliance for Open Media, AV2 promises 30% better compression efficiency than AV1, supporting advanced formats like 8K, HDR, AR/VR, and immersive streaming. Continue reading
Technology is rapidly expanding. Streaming resolutions are going up to 4k and beyond, and more and more newer technologies are coming up, like AR/VR. While these technologies aim to enhance the end-user experience, they have their own set of challenges. Starting with bandwidth management, device compatibility, to intense infrastructure pressure, newer tech needs a new codec, and the AV2 Codec, scheduled to be launched by this year end looks promising.
The AV2 Codec is the next line of exceptionally capable video codec expected to offer superior video quality, enhanced compression algorithms, and overall superior video quality at lower bitrates than its predecessor, the AV1.
AO Media or Alliance for Open Media has announced on Sept 15, 2025, to the world that they are working on defining and deploying the next generation of video codec by launching the next evolution in open video coding, the AV2. Being called the generational leap in technology, AV2 may revolutionize the OTT streaming industry by providing much better support for formats such as VR that are bandwidth-heavy.
For streaming platforms and enterprises managing large video libraries, that matters: bitrates vs quality, device support, codec agility, and infrastructure cost all hang on codec performance. So for a streaming platform, you could deliver the same quality at a lower bandwidth (cost savings on CDN/transit/storage) or deliver higher quality (resolution, frame rate, immersive formats) at the same bandwidth.
Additionally, as per AO Media in its survey conducted on its 10th anniversary, suggests strong support for AV2 acceptance, with over 52% people are of the opinion that they might upgrade it within 12 months upon finalization, and a whopping 83% expecting it to implement it within the next two years.
Based on the latest information available, here are a few notable differences between AV1 and AV2 codecs.
| Aspect | AV1 | AV2 |
| Developer | AO Media | AO Media |
| Launch Year | 2018 | 2025 (Expected) |
| Compression Efficiency | 30% better than HEVC | 30% better than AV1 |
| Primary Goal | Open Codec to support 4k streaming | Next-gen Codec for larger formats like 8k, HDR, AR/VR etc |
| Use Case | General internet-based streaming | AR/VR, multi-view, immersive streaming experience |
| Adoption Status | Widely used across major platforms like YouTube, Netflix etc | Data awaited |
If the current tests are to be believed, AV2 shows around 30% lower bitrate than AV1 while maintaining the same video quality. These findings are confirmed by Andrey Norkin, a Netflix research scientist.
The next generation of video codec comes with superior compression efficiency in handling intra-frame and inter-frame prediction and improved frame-level multi-threading. This, however, also comes with high computational demand, leading to an increased workload on CPU/GPU systems.
For enterprise video hosting and management (your domain): the expectation is that video libraries will increasingly require more efficient codecs to manage storage/egress cost, and adapt for remote workforce, mixed content types, and evolving device landscape. AV2 plays into this.
Assuming the number of codes will be increasing, giving a far broader choice to the platform owners, systems, however, must be built for codec agility so that migrations can occur.
At Muvi, staying ahead of technical trends is part of giving you a competitive edge. With Muvi One, the roadmap to AV2 compatibility is clear, manageable, and integrated.
Our CMS & Player architecture is built for flexibility, so when AV2 codec arrives, you won’t need to rebuild your platform from scratch. Muvi One can work with multiple codecs such as H.264, AVI, and when the time comes, even AV2.
Muvi One can help you launch your fully functional OTT platform for websites, mobile & TV apps spanning across 14+ ecosystems. It’s completely secure, fully customizable, and comes with easy-to-use website and app builder tools that let you launch your platform without writing a single line of code.
Features of Muvi One OTT Builder
The list is actually quite long. Why not simply try Muvi One today? Get a free 14-day trial now.
AV2 is the upcoming open-source video codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media (AOMedia). It is designed to deliver significantly better video compression and quality at lower bitrates compared to AV1, making it ideal for high-resolution and immersive formats like 8K, HDR, and AR/VR.
As per AOMedia’s announcement, AV2 is expected to be finalized and launched by the end of 2025. Early testing and adoption by major streaming services and enterprises are likely to begin soon after its official release.
Written by: Shivashish
Shivashish works as a content writer at Muvi. He has worked in domains like e-commerce, employee engagement, sports and entertainment. A poet by heart, Shivashish believes in creating quality content that is rich in information and easy to understand.
Add your comment