Overview
ISO/IEC 23008-5:2017/Amd 1:2017 is an international standard developed by ISO and IEC focused on high efficiency video coding (HEVC) for media content in heterogeneous environments. This amendment specifically addresses reference software for screen content coding extensions, building upon the core high efficiency video coding framework. By providing reference implementations, the standard ensures interoperability, facilitates consistent implementation, and supports advanced screen content coding, enabling optimal performance across diverse devices and platforms.
Screen content coding extensions are designed to efficiently handle computer-generated imagery, text, and graphics, which differ significantly from natural video. This amendment provides updates to the reference software, making it a vital resource for developers, technology vendors, and organizations that require efficient coding solutions for screen-based content.
Key Topics
Key topics covered in this amended standard include:
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Reference Software Update
Incorporation of software packages supporting a diverse set of HEVC coding profiles, including traditional video and specialized screen content extensions.
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Profile Support
Coverage of main HEVC profiles such as Main, Main 10, Main Still Picture, Monochrome, Main 4:2:2, Main 4:4:4, Main Intra, High Throughput, and various screen-extended profiles.
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Screen Content Coding Extensions
Introduction and maintenance of screen-specific coding profiles like Screen-Extended Main, Screen-Extended Main 10, and Screen-Extended High Throughput profiles, targeting non-photographic content.
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Software Components
Specification of three main software modules:
- HM software for a variety of HEVC profiles
- HTM software for multiview and 3D video
- SHM software for scalable video coding
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Implementation Guidance
Reference software additions enable consistent behaviour and best practices for implementers working with HEVC screen content.
Applications
This amendment has a wide range of practical applications in the field of media delivery:
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Remote Desktop and Virtualization
Optimized screen content coding is crucial for remote desktop streaming, virtual desktop infrastructure, and cloud-based application delivery.
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Online Collaboration and Education
Enhanced efficiency for screen sharing, digital whiteboards, and e-learning solutions, where text and graphics clarity is paramount.
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Broadcast and Streaming
Used in live broadcasts, video conferencing, and streaming platforms to deliver clear, crisp screen details at lower bitrates.
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Gaming and Interactive Media
Facilitates efficient encoding of user interfaces, gameplay screens, and menu systems in cloud gaming and interactive applications.
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Enterprise and Industrial Use
Supports efficient transmission of dashboards, SCADA interfaces, control systems, and enterprise application screens.
Related Standards
Organizations and developers may consider the following related standards for comprehensive solutions in video coding and media delivery:
- ISO/IEC 23008-2: High efficiency video coding (HEVC) core specification
- ITU-T H.265: Advanced video coding standard identical to HEVC
- ISO/IEC 23008-5:2017: Reference software for high efficiency video coding (main document)
- ISO/IEC 23008-12: Additional HEVC extensions and profiles
- ISO/IEC 14496 (MPEG-4): Coding of audio-visual objects
Referencing and implementing ISO/IEC 23008-5:2017/Amd 1:2017 ensures alignment with globally recognized best practices in efficient screen content delivery, fostering interoperability and performance across a diverse range of digital media applications.