What is a VVC file?
A VVC file is a type of codec, which is technology designed to compress and uncompress data, making it easier to transport files via the internet. Looking to the future, the creators of Versatile Video Coding (VVC) have set the compression standard for videos.
While the file can work with anything from 4K to 16K streaming, 16K streaming has yet to come into the mainstream. However, this does future-proof the file, once this resolution becomes more widely adapted by consumers.
History of the VVC file.
VVC was created by the UN’s International Telecommunication Union and their Joint Video Experts Team. Work began in late 2017 and finished in July 2020. Intended as the future of streaming, VCC is ahead of its time. As a block-based hybrid codec, VCC is a highly complex but also future-focused format, with most current streaming hardware unable to utilize the codec as yet.
While VCC is also known as H.266 and is seen as the spiritual successor to the earlier codec HEVC, the name Virtual Video Coding was chosen because the codec was designed to address all video needs.
How to use VVC files.
Video encoding, video conferencing & OTT streaming.
One of today’s biggest technological challenges is ensuring that video you capture on camera doesn’t lose its quality when streamed. As technology advances, and quality improves, file sizes grow alongside them. On local devices, it’s possible to invest in larger hard drives and faster hardware, but if you’re streaming via the internet, encoding is the only viable solution.
VCC is ideal for video encoding and is suitable for uses such as video conferencing and OTT streaming services, including subscription-based video-on-demand. The VCC format is used for 4K streaming and 360° streaming, the revolutionary and immersive form of video that provides a 360-degree view of whatever is being filmed.
Pros and cons of VVC files.
Pros.
- Stream in 4K. The chief benefit of using VVC codec is the ability to stream in 4K. The VVC format is future-proofed and is capable of being able to stream up to 16K.
- Efficient data compression. Capable of compression beyond most other leading codecs, VCC’s ability to create small file sizes while retaining quality is another major benefit.
- Wider range of uses. With impressive compression capabilities, VVC offers better support for High Dynamic Range and 360° video, widening the range of possibilities for users and streamers.
Cons.
- Low compatibility. With so much focus on the future, VVC’s full potential is limited by today’s standard of video. While VVC can stream up to 16K, most existing technology is caps visuals at 4K and only a handful of streaming cameras can manage 6K.
- Little support. Low compatibility and a general lack of usage means that currently there’s little in the way of support if you use VVC. However, as the format is still finding its feet, this will no doubt improve over time.
Find out which codec file types are supported by Adobe Premiere
How to open a VVC file.
As VCC is a method for streaming videos, you may not need to manually encode and decode VVC videos. However, if you do, there are a number of encoders and decoders that you can use to gain the most benefit out of the codec.
The German institute, Fraunhofer, have created an open-source encoder that should allow for fast and efficient “real-world” encoding.
How to create and edit a VVC file.
You can play VVC files through a number of media players that also include decoders capable of understanding files, compressed to the VVC standard.
Questions? We have answers.
VVC is a block-based hybrid codec. The initials stand for Versatile Video Coding, a reference to the range of streaming capabilities that the format offers. The codec was created by the Joint Video Experts Team at International Telecommunications Union.
H.266/VVC has replaced H.265/HVEC as the highest quality file type. This codec is capable of compressing up to 16K quality videos, though most videos today don’t exceed 4K and only a few cameras are capable of streaming in 6K.
A live streaming encoder is a tool capable of converting video content into different formats. Encoding videos provides a digital copy that can be live streamed or embedded on a website. Because live streaming is often time sensitive, you’ll need a video encoder to process the video in real-time.
You can start creating amazing content for your next project by using video editing software:
You might also be interested in:
Xvid.
Xvid is a compression software that is capable of compressing a video of DVD quality small enough that it can fit on a CD.
AVC.
AVC files are video files that are compressed in the MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding format, also known as H.264.
HEVC.
HEVC stands for Hight Efficiency Video Coding, but it is also known as H.265 and offers 25 to 50% better data compression without losing video quality.
VP9.
Designed by Google to compete with HVEC, VP9 was at first used primarily on YouTube but interest in the format has since grown.