OTT (over the top) streaming services fiercely compete to provide consumers with the highest quality possible in the face of an increasingly crowded entertainment space. With so much content online, consumers now have more choice than ever, which has pushed many OTTs to invest heavily in 4K content. But 4K content online lives on large data diets, which drives many connections to their limits. To combat this, many streamers are looking for new ways to deliver a 4K experience without the tech debt that comes with it. So how do OTTs like Netflix compress 4K content?
Techniques: How does Netflix compress 4K content?
One standard method is using codecs optimized for compression, such as H.265/HEVC. This means that Netflix can reduce the file size of 4K content without sacrificing too much quality. So while you may notice it doesn’t quite look like it’s super 4K, it’ll still be higher quality than 1080p.
Another technique that Netflix uses is to lower the bitrate of 4K content. This means less data is transferred per second, resulting in a smaller file size.
The trade-off here is that lowering the bitrate can sometimes result in a lower quality video. So it’s a balancing act for Netflix to find the right balance of quality and file size.
However, Netflix does this because the quality of the stream adjusts based on the available bandwidth. This helps prevent buffering and ensures a smooth viewing experience. That is something essential for a provider that’s delivering services all over the world because there are countries where ultra-high-speed internet isn’t even available. Viewers do not have the same options across the globe; they either have to make do with sitting through hours of buffering content or not using the service at all – something Netflix goes above and beyond to avoid. So, having a system where the quality and compression are adjusted according to the user’s bandwidth and speed makes a world of difference and allows everyone to enjoy the service.
Finally, Netflix employs algorithms that analyze the content and decide how to best compress it for storage and delivery. These are constantly being updated and improved to provide the best possible experience for the user. As you’re watching a show or movie on Netflix, the algorithm works in the background to ensure you’re getting the best possible quality given your internet speed and device.
By using codecs, lowering the bitrate, and employing algorithms, Netflix can provide a high-quality experience for all users, no matter where they are in the world or what devices they’re using to stream content.
So the next time you notice that your 4K content on Netflix doesn’t look quite like 4K, keep in mind that it could be any number of factors, from compression methods to your internet speed. Strong 4K results require adequate bandwidth and an output that can properly process the incoming data.
Enjoy!
Related: Netflix Begins To Roll Out Its New Extra Home Fee