Fraunhofer Says Efficient Android Audio Codec Will Yield Better Video Streaming

Following release of the Android P beta 3 preview, Fraunhofer announced Friday an updated version of the FDK library for OEMs, service providers and developers. FDK2 includes xHE-AAC for music, down to 12 kbps for stereo sound, and MPEG-D DRC dynamic range control for improved listening in noisy environments, Fraunhofer said. The latest version of the MPEG AAC audio codec will extend the usable stereo bitrate range from as low as 12 kbps up to 300 kbps, enabling subscription VOD and streaming music distributors worldwide to offer an improved, more reliable experience over congested networks, particularly in regions where consumers still rely on 2G or 3G connections, said the company. MPEG-D DRC will provide mandatory loudness control for xHE-AAC to play back content at a consistent volume and offers new dynamic range control profiles for listening in noisy situations, it said. “As SVOD operators enter markets with less capable mobile networks, they will need to offer videos at 50 or 100 kbit/s for successful transmission,” said Marc Gayer, business department and deputy division director-audio and media technologies. Audio can take up only a small part of that, he said, so saving 16 kbps with the xHE-AAC codec will allow for “significant improvements” in video quality, including preventing dropouts, “while keeping the audio quality at the same level,” he said. The new technologies, available in professional and consumer software solutions, have been included in the existing AAC patent licensing program administered by VIA Licensing at no additional cost, Fraunhofer said.