HEVC, the next big thing?

The new HEVC (H.265) compression standard benefits broadcasters by improving bandwidth efficiency and reducing OPEX-for both linear TV and multi-screen services. However, the introduction of a new codec has historically come with questions and technology disruptions. This paper will address key considerations related to HEVC, discuss architecture implications and indicate how HEVC adoption can be significantly different (and better) than its predecessors. HEVC promises 50% lower bitrates, paving the way for 4K ultra-HD and improving video quality (VQ) and data rates for mobile services to tablets, PCs and phones. We believe first deployments will be in multi-screen/OTT, where operators don't need new STB decoders but gain benefits from HEVC such as lower CDN costs and optimized video delivery on LTE networks. Traditional TV services will gain significant benefits and should transition to HEVC fairly quickly also.