What is ISO/IEC 23008-7:2014?

ISO/IEC 23008-7:2014 is a technical standard that defines a set of technologies known as MPEG-DASH (Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP). This standard is published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). MPEG-DASH is designed to provide efficient and flexible streaming of multimedia content over the internet.

The Benefits of MPEG-DASH

MPEG-DASH offers several benefits compared to traditional streaming methods. First, it provides adaptive streaming, which means that the quality of the video can be adjusted in real-time based on the user's available bandwidth. This ensures smooth playback without buffering or interruptions. Second, MPEG-DASH is format-agnostic, meaning it supports various audio and video codecs, allowing content providers to deliver their media in different formats depending on the capabilities of the client device. Third, MPEG-DASH enables the use of advanced features such as multi-language audio tracks and captioning. Lastly, MPEG-DASH is compatible with existing HTTP infrastructure, making it easier to deploy and integrate into existing systems.

Technical Details of MPEG-DASH

MPEG-DASH works by dividing the media content into small segments and storing them on a web server or Content Delivery Network (CDN). These segments are then requested and downloaded by the client device using standard HTTP protocols. The client device continuously monitors the network conditions and chooses the appropriate segment based on the current available bandwidth. This adaptive behavior allows for smooth streaming even in fluctuating network conditions. Additionally, MPEG-DASH utilizes Media Presentation Description (MPD) files that serve as a manifest, providing information about the available media segments, their characteristics, and URLs.

Adoption and Impact of MPEG-DASH

MPEG-DASH has gained significant adoption in the streaming industry, with major content providers and streaming platforms supporting it. The use of MPEG-DASH allows for an improved user experience by providing seamless and uninterrupted video playback. Additionally, MPEG-DASH has simplified the delivery of multimedia content across different devices, reducing the need for platform-specific streaming protocols. With its format-agnostic nature and compatibility with existing HTTP infrastructure, MPEG-DASH has become a key technology for delivering high-quality video streaming over the internet.

In conclusion, ISO/IEC 23008-7:2014 defines the MPEG-DASH standard, which revolutionizes the way multimedia content is delivered over the internet. With its adaptive streaming capabilities, format-agnostic approach, and compatibility with existing infrastructure, MPEG-DASH offers significant benefits to both content providers and users alike, ensuring a smoother and more efficient streaming experience.