What is LCEVC?
LCEVC (Low Complexity Enhancement Video Coding) is a video codec technology developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG). It is designed to enhance the video coding efficiency of existing codecs by leveraging an additional layer of enhancement data.
Here are some key features and characteristics of LCEVC:
1. Enhancement Layer Approach: LCEVC takes a different approach compared to traditional video codecs like H.264 or H.265. Instead of being a standalone codec, LCEVC enhances the video coding efficiency of existing codecs by adding an enhancement layer. This layer contains additional data that helps improve the reconstructed video quality.
2. Computational Efficiency: LCEVC is designed to be computationally efficient. It achieves this by leveraging the existing decoder implementation of a base codec (e.g., H.264) and using the decoder's capabilities to process the enhancement layer. This approach reduces the complexity and computational requirements compared to full video codecs.
3. Flexibility and Compatibility: LCEVC is codec-agnostic, meaning it can work in conjunction with various video codecs, including both new and existing ones. It enhances the base codec's performance without requiring changes to the existing infrastructure or the encoding and decoding processes. This flexibility makes LCEVC compatible with a wide range of devices and platforms.
4. Bandwidth Efficiency: By utilizing the enhancement layer, LCEVC improves video quality while keeping the overall bitrate relatively low. It achieves this by focusing on encoding the residual data, which represents the difference between the original video frame and its base codec reconstruction. This allows for efficient transmission and reduced bandwidth requirements.
5. Reduced Encoding and Decoding Latency: LCEVC introduces lower encoding and decoding latency compared to traditional codecs. Since it enhances the base codec's decoding process, it reduces the overall latency associated with video coding and decoding.
6. Support for Adaptive Streaming: LCEVC can be integrated into adaptive streaming scenarios, similar to other video codecs. It enables the creation of multiple bitrate versions of the base video stream, allowing for adaptive streaming protocols to dynamically adjust the video quality based on network conditions and device capabilities.
LCEVC presents an innovative approach to video coding by enhancing the efficiency of existing codecs. It offers improvements in video quality, computational efficiency, and reduced latency while maintaining compatibility with established codecs and infrastructure. LCEVC has the potential to enhance video streaming applications, especially in scenarios where existing codecs may face limitations in bandwidth, computational resources, or video quality.
