Tech giants Google and Meta have teamed up with telecom leader Vodafone to urge smartphone makers and chip designers to add hardware support for the AV1 video codec in affordable devices. This move, detailed in a new white paper released on September 24, 2025, aims to cut data usage and boost video quality for billions of users worldwide, especially in midrange phones priced under $600.
Why AV1 Matters for Mobile Video
Video streaming now makes up 70 to 80 percent of all mobile data traffic, a figure that keeps climbing as people watch more content on their phones. The AV1 codec stands out because it compresses videos 30 percent better than older options like VP9, which itself beats H.264 by a similar margin.
This efficiency means smaller file sizes without losing quality, helping users on limited data plans stretch their allowances further. For network operators like Vodafone, it eases the strain on infrastructure, potentially delaying costly upgrades. Content providers such as Google and Meta benefit too, as smoother streaming could lead to more ad views and happier audiences.
Experts point out that AV1 is royalty-free, making it easier for companies to adopt without extra fees. Recent tests show it can deliver crisp 4K video at lower bitrates, a big win for emerging markets where budget phones dominate sales.
Challenges in Smartphone Hardware
Many high-end phones already handle AV1 through dedicated hardware, but about 75 percent of new smartphones fall into the low to mid-tier category. These devices often lack the built-in support, forcing them to rely on software decoding that drains batteries faster and struggles with high-resolution playback.
Chipmakers like Qualcomm, MediaTek, and Samsung have focused more on AI features in recent years, adding powerful neural processing units to their system-on-chips. This shift leaves less room for video hardware, slowing AV1 adoption in affordable models.
The white paper highlights specific lines, such as MediaTek’s Dimensity 6000 series or Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6, as prime candidates for future updates. Without these changes, users might miss out on better battery life and reduced buffering during streams.
Industry watchers note that smartphone sales hit over 1.2 billion units in 2024, with budget segments growing fastest in regions like Asia and Africa. Pushing AV1 could bridge the gap, ensuring even entry-level phones keep up with video demands.
Benefits for Users and Networks
Adopting AV1 hardware could transform how people experience mobile video. Imagine watching a full movie on a $200 phone without constant pauses or pixelated screens. Data savings alone might add up to gigabytes per month for heavy streamers.
For networks, less data per video stream means handling more users without overload. Vodafone has tested AV1 in real-world scenarios, finding it cuts peak traffic during popular events like sports matches.
- Lower Costs: Users save on data bills, while providers reduce infrastructure spending.
- Better Quality: Higher resolution at the same bandwidth, ideal for 4K content.
- Eco-Friendly Impact: Efficient compression lowers energy use in data centers and devices.
Google and Meta already optimize their platforms, like YouTube and Facebook, with AV1 where possible. Expanding this to more phones aligns with global trends toward sustainable tech.
Looking Ahead to AV2 and Beyond
While AV1 gains traction, its successor, AV2, is set for release by the end of 2025. Early details suggest even greater compression, up to 50 percent better than AV1, but it will need new hardware support.
Current adoption stats show AV1 hardware in about 10 percent of smartphones as of mid-2025, a jump from previous years. Software solutions, like updates to Android’s decoders, help bridge the gap for now.
| Codec | Compression Efficiency | Hardware Support in 2025 | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| H.264 | Baseline | Widespread | Older devices |
| VP9 | 30% better than H.264 | Common in mid-tier | YouTube streams |
| AV1 | 30% better than VP9 | Growing, 10% adoption | High-res mobile |
| AV2 | Up to 50% better than AV1 | Expected end-2025 | Future 8K video |
This table illustrates how codecs evolve, with AV1 positioned as a key step before AV2 takes over.
The push comes amid broader industry shifts, including AI integration in phones and rising video demands from apps like TikTok and Instagram Reels.
Global Impact on Consumers
In developing countries, where affordable phones are essential, AV1 could democratize access to quality video. Analysts predict that by 2026, over half of all smartphones might support it if manufacturers respond.
Events like the recent CES 2025 showcased AV1 in new TVs and laptops, hinting at a ripple effect to mobiles. Users report smoother playback on supported devices, with less heat and longer sessions.
This collaboration signals a united front to make tech more inclusive, balancing profits with user needs.
What do you think about this push for AV1? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to fellow tech enthusiasts.
