What is h265?

H.265, also called HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding), is a video compression standard. It tells computers how to shrink video files so they take up less space while still looking good. Think of it as a set of rules for packing video data more tightly than the older H.264 standard.

Let's break it down

  • Video frames: A video is made of many pictures (frames) shown quickly.
  • Compression: Instead of storing every pixel of every frame, H.265 finds patterns and repeats, storing only the differences.
  • Blocks and prediction: The picture is split into small blocks. The codec predicts what each block looks like based on nearby blocks or previous frames, then only saves the error.
  • Advanced math: H.265 uses more sophisticated math (like larger block sizes, better motion vectors, and improved transforms) to get higher quality at lower bitrates.
  • Profiles/levels: Different “profiles” define which features are allowed, letting devices choose what they can handle.

Why does it matter?

Because video is everywhere-streaming movies, video calls, gaming, security cameras. Smaller files mean:

  • Faster loading and less buffering for viewers.
  • Lower data costs for mobile users.
  • Less storage needed on devices and servers.
  • Ability to deliver higher resolutions (4K, 8K) and HDR without huge bandwidth.

Where is it used?

  • Streaming services (Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+) for 4K and HDR content.
  • Video conferencing tools (Zoom, Teams) to keep calls smooth on limited internet.
  • Blu‑ray discs and Ultra HD Blu‑ray.
  • Mobile phones and tablets for recording and playback.
  • Surveillance cameras and drones that need to store long video clips.
  • Gaming consoles and cloud gaming platforms.

Good things about it

  • Better compression: About 50% smaller files than H.264 at the same quality.
  • Supports high resolutions: Works well with 4K, 8K, and HDR video.
  • Energy efficient for streaming: Less data means lower power use on networks.
  • Widely adopted: Most modern hardware (GPUs, smartphones, TVs) includes H.265 decoding support.
  • Future‑proof: Designed to handle emerging video formats and higher frame rates.

Not-so-good things

  • Higher processing demand: Encoding (creating) H.265 video needs more CPU/GPU power, which can be slow on older devices.
  • Licensing complexity: Multiple patent pools mean manufacturers may pay royalties, sometimes limiting adoption.
  • Compatibility gaps: Very old devices and browsers may not support H.265, requiring fallback to H.264.
  • Encoding software cost: Professional H.265 encoders can be expensive compared to free H.264 tools.