YouTube Enhances Video Compression with AI, Reducing Data Usage by 4%

YouTube has been working to enhance the user experience by tackling the growing challenge of video compression. As video content continues to surge, and internet traffic is projected to increase even further, efficient compression techniques have become crucial. YouTube partnered with us to explore the potential of our AI model, MuZero, in improving the VP9 codec, which is a coding format used to compress and stream videos online. When MuZero was first applied to some of YouTube's live traffic, it demonstrated significant improvements. Specifically, we observed an average 4% reduction in bitrate across a wide range of video content. Bitrate is a critical measure that determines the computing power and bandwidth required to play and store videos. It directly affects factors such as loading times, resolution, buffering, and overall data usage. By enhancing the VP9 codec, we have managed to reduce internet traffic, lower data consumption, and decrease the time it takes for videos to load. These optimizations mean that users can enjoy higher quality streams with fewer interruptions and less bandwidth strain. The result is a more seamless and enjoyable viewing experience for millions of people worldwide, all while using less data. This advancement not only benefits individual users by making their video-watching experience smoother but also contributes to the broader global infrastructure by lowering the demand on network resources. As video becomes an increasingly integral part of how we communicate and consume content, effective compression technologies like MuZero will play a vital role in ensuring that this medium remains accessible and efficient for everyone.