How does the live stream encoding works?

How does the live stream encoding works?

A live stream from a source that captures video – e.g., a webcam – is sent to a server, where a streaming protocol such as HLS or MPEG-DASH will break the video feed into smaller segments, each a few seconds in length.

The video content is then encoded using an encoding standard. The encoding standard in wide use today is called H.264, but standards like H.265, VP9, and AV1 are also in use. This encoding process compresses the video by removing redundant visual information. For example, in a stream of someone talking against the background of a blue sky, the blue sky does not need to be rendered again for every second of video, since it does not change a lot. Therefore, the blue sky can be stripped out from most frames of the video.

The compressed, segmented video data is then distributed using a content delivery network (CDN). Without a CDN, very few viewers will actually be able to load the live stream – the final section of this article explains why.

Most mobile devices have a built-in encoder, making it easy for regular users to live stream on social media platforms and via messaging apps. Brands and companies that want a higher quality stream use their own encoding software, hardware, or both.

And all of this is under a time constraint — the whole process need to happen in a few seconds, or video experiences will suffer. We call the total delay between when the video was shot, and when it can be viewed on an end-user’s device, as “end-to-end latency” (think of it as the time from the camera lens to your phone’s screen).

Its all performed with Networks smartness with evolving encoding mechanisms to provide smarter visual abilities

Facts to remember on Live Stream encoding principles:

• The live stream is captured by a video source, such as a webcam, and sent to a server for processing.
• A streaming protocol like HLS or MPEG-DASH breaks the video feed into smaller segments, typically a few seconds in length.
• The video content is encoded using a standard like H.264, which compresses the video by eliminating redundant visual information.
• Encoding software or hardware is utilized by brands/companies for higher quality streams, while most mobile devices have a built-in encoder for regular users to live stream on social media platforms and messaging apps.
• The compressed and segmented video data is distributed through a content delivery network (CDN), which enhances the accessibility for viewers.
• The entire process, from capturing the video to delivering it to the end-user's device, needs to occur quickly to avoid significant delays in the video experience, known as "end-to-end latency."