NTT Corp has developed a real–time 4K high frame rate HEVC codec which enables live transmission of high frame rate (HFR) video.
According to NTT, HFR enhances video smoothness and sharpness by doubling the frame rate of the standard video frame rate (SFR), from 50/60p to 100/120p. HFR video is especially effective for fast–moving video content such as sports.
By developing this codec, NTT will contribute to enhancing the quality of broadcasts and public viewing of sporting events. Also, NTT will develop opportunities to use HFR transmission in VR and surveillance applications.
Recently, Ultra HD (UHD) services have launched by many satellite operators and OTT platforms in the world.
In March 2015, NTT announced a real–time 4K/60p HEVC video encoder LSI (NARA) and have contributed to the rapid acceptance of UHD service. Since live sports programs are the main drivers of UHD service, HFR video technologies, which are especially beneficial for sports content, have attracted strong interest from UHD service providers. NTT's real–time 4K HFR HEVC codec allows UHD service operators to conduct live broadcasts of HFR sports content.
NTT is planning to proceed with trial experiments of 4K HFR services including video contribution and distribution services for broadcasters and public viewing service. NTT will contribute to the creation of various high–definition and immersive video services by providing this technology.
