MPEG (file format)

Moving Picture Experts Group, commonly known as MPEG, is a term that has become synonymous with digital audio and video formats. The group is continually working on new standards to meet the needs of the digital world. For instance, MPEG-H is a new standard for high-efficiency video coding, designed for ultra-high-definition video and immersive audio.

What is MPEG?

The Moving Picture Experts Group was established in 1988 by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The group was tasked with creating standards for digital audio and video formats. The name 'MPEG' refers to this group and the standards they have developed.

The first MPEG standard, known as MPEG-1, was released in 1993. It was designed to compress VHS-quality video and CD-quality audio. This standard introduced the world to digital video and paved the way for the digital media revolution.

Understanding MPEG standards

Over the years, MPEG has developed several standards, each designed to meet specific needs in the evolving digital landscape. These standards are often referred to as 'MPEG formats' and include MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4 and more.

Each MPEG standard has its unique features and uses. For instance, MPEG-2 is used for digital television broadcast and DVDs, while MPEG-4 is used for internet streaming and advanced multimedia.

MPEG-1

MPEG-1 was the first MPEG standard and is designed for VHS-quality video. It’s most commonly used for Video CDs (VCDs) and MP3 audio files. Despite its age, MPEG-1 is still widely used due to its simplicity and broad compatibility.

One of the most significant contributions of MPEG-1 is the MP3 audio format. MP3 revolutionized the music industry by allowing high-quality audio files to be compressed to a fraction of their original size.

MPEG-2

MPEG-2 is a more advanced standard, designed for high-quality video and audio. It’s used in DVDs, digital television broadcasts, and satellite television. MPEG-2 offers better quality than MPEG-1 but requires more storage space and processing power.

MPEG-2 also introduced the concept of 'interlaced video', which improves video quality on certain types of displays. This feature is particularly important for broadcast television, where interlaced video is still widely used.

MPEG-4

MPEG-4 is a broad standard that encompasses a wide range of digital media formats. It’s used for internet streaming, mobile video and advanced multimedia applications. MPEG-4 includes features for 3D graphics, interactive content and even digital rights management (DRM).

One of the most popular MPEG-4 formats is MP4, which is used for video streaming on the internet. MP4 files can contain video, audio, subtitles, and interactive content, all in one file.

The impact of MPEG

The MPEG standards have had a profound impact on the digital world. They have enabled the growth of digital media, from the early days of MP3 music files to the streaming video services we use today.

By creating standards for digital media, MPEG has also ensured compatibility between different devices and platforms. This means that you can play an MP4 video on almost any device, from your smartphone to your smart TV.