{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854020","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854020","title":"Bitrate selection for video streaming","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2015-02-13T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":20,"abstract":"A plurality of videos associated with a plurality of video resolutions may be received. A minimum bitrate may be identified for each of the video resolutions based on a first bitrate point associated with the videos where a quality of the videos at a first video resolution that is upscaled to a second video resolution is better than a quality of the videos at the second video resolution at bitrates below the first bitrate point. Furthermore, a maximum bitrate may be identified for each of the video resolutions based on a second bitrate point where the rate of change of the quality of the videos is below a threshold value. The identified minimum bitrates and the maximum bitrates may be assigned to the video resolutions."},"analysis":{"summary":"Bitrate Selection for Video Streaming is an innovative technology designed to dynamically optimize video resolution and bitrate based on perceived video quality. The core innovation lies in identifying the minimum and maximum bitrates for various video resolutions to ensure optimal quality without wasting bandwidth. This patent addresses the problem of buffering and suboptimal video quality that often plagues video streaming experiences, especially in environments with variable network conditions. The technology achieves this by analyzing video quality at different bitrates and resolutions, determining the point at which upscaling a lower resolution video provides a better viewing experience than a native higher resolution video running at a lower bitrate. The system also identifies the point beyond which increasing the bitrate yields diminishing returns in perceived video quality. The business value of this approach is significant, as it can lead to cost savings for content providers by reducing bandwidth consumption and improving user satisfaction by providing a smoother viewing experience. This technology has applications in various markets, including streaming platforms, content delivery networks, and mobile video providers. The market opportunity for this innovation is substantial, as the demand for high-quality video streaming continues to grow.","layman_explanation":"Bitrate Selection for Video Streaming addresses a common problem in today's world: the frustration of buffering and poor video quality when streaming movies, TV shows, or other video content. Existing solutions often fall short because they don't dynamically adjust to the varying internet speeds and device capabilities of users. This results in a suboptimal viewing experience, characterized by frequent interruptions and low-resolution video. This patent offers a smart solution that automatically adjusts video quality to match the available bandwidth and device capabilities. It works by analyzing the video and network conditions in real-time and then selecting the optimal bitrate for streaming. Instead of sending a fixed-quality video stream, it adapts to ensure the smoothest possible playback. This approach is similar to how a car's automatic transmission shifts gears to match the engine's power output to the road conditions. The video stream is 'geared' to the network conditions. This matters because it can significantly improve the viewing experience for users, especially those with slower internet connections or older devices. It also benefits content providers by reducing bandwidth costs and improving customer satisfaction. This technology can be used in various applications, including streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, video conferencing tools like Zoom and Skype, and social media platforms like YouTube and Facebook. Looking ahead, this technology could be integrated into even more devices and platforms, making video streaming more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. From an investment perspective, companies that adopt this technology could see increased user engagement and reduced customer churn, leading to higher revenue and profitability.","technical_analysis":"Bitrate Selection for Video Streaming employs a sophisticated technical architecture to dynamically optimize video streaming. The system comprises several key components, including a video encoder, a network bandwidth analyzer, a bitrate selection algorithm, and a video decoder. The video encoder prepares the video content for streaming, while the network bandwidth analyzer monitors the available bandwidth in real-time. The bitrate selection algorithm then uses this information to determine the optimal bitrate for the video stream. This algorithm is based on a complex analysis of video quality at different bitrates and resolutions. It identifies the minimum bitrate required for each resolution to maintain acceptable quality and the maximum bitrate beyond which further increases provide diminishing returns. The implementation details involve sophisticated algorithms for analyzing video quality, assessing network bandwidth, and dynamically adjusting the bitrate. These algorithms must be highly efficient to ensure real-time adaptation to changing network conditions. Furthermore, the system must be compatible with various video codecs and streaming protocols to ensure interoperability across different devices and platforms. The integration patterns involve seamless integration with existing video streaming infrastructure, allowing content providers to easily adopt this technology. The performance characteristics are optimized for low latency and high throughput, ensuring a smooth and responsive viewing experience. The code-level implications involve the development of highly optimized algorithms and data structures for analyzing video quality and selecting the optimal bitrate.","business_analysis":"The business impact of Bitrate Selection for Video Streaming is significant, offering substantial market opportunities and competitive advantages. The market opportunity size is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality video streaming across various devices and platforms. The competitive advantages of this technology include improved video quality, reduced buffering, and efficient bandwidth usage. These advantages can lead to increased user satisfaction, reduced churn, and cost savings for content providers. The revenue potential is significant, as content providers can monetize the improved viewing experience through increased subscriptions and advertising revenue. The business models enabled by this technology include subscription-based streaming services, advertising-supported video platforms, and content delivery networks. The strategic positioning of this innovation is strong, as it addresses a critical need in the video streaming industry. The ROI projections are favorable, as the cost savings from reduced bandwidth consumption and the increased revenue from improved user satisfaction can quickly offset the investment in this technology.","faqs":null,"topics":["video streaming","bitrate selection","adaptive streaming","video quality","network optimization","bitrate","selection","video"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Bitrate Selection for Video Streaming - Patent US-9854020","description":"Discover how Bitrate Selection for Video Streaming optimizes video bitrate for seamless streaming. Full patent analysis, claims, and technical details available.","keywords":["video streaming","bitrate selection","adaptive streaming","video quality","network optimization","patent","patent US-9854020"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854020","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854020","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Bitrate selection for video streaming\" (US-9854020). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854020","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854020","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854020","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T10:30:33.622Z"}