Netflix supports a new codec called AV1, and is already available on select devices. What are the advantages?
AV1 utilizes modern processors for better video quality and compression. During its testing, Netflix said AV1 could produce better video quality than other codecs with the same bitrate.
A number of testers also noticed less loss of quality than other codecs.
But of course the advantages are not only that, but also economical in terms of spending funds. AV1 is an open source codec, which means Netflix doesn't have to pay royalties to use it.
This codec also has support from various industries and is managed by the Alliance for Open Media which includes Apple, Amazon, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Netflix, Samsung, and many more.
Actually Netflix has been using this codec for a long time. AV1's first support in the Netflix app for Android dates back to February 2020.
At that time Netflix claimed AV could produce a better streaming experience, and saw a 20% increase in compression when compared to the VP9 codec.
At that time Netflix promised to expand support for this codec on all platforms, but until now Netflix has not been able to confirm when this codec is supported on all the platforms they have.
So far the platforms that have been able to try out the AV1 codec include:
Some of Samsung's 2020 UHD smart TVs
Some of Samsung's 2020 QLED UHD Smart TVs
Some of Samsung's 2020 QLED 8K Smart TVs
Samsung The Frame 2020
Samsung The Serif 2020
Samsung The Terrace 2020
Any TV running Netflix from PS4 Pro
Multiple Amazon Fire TV devices with Fire OS 7 and above
Multiple Android TVs with Android OS 10 and above