With the increase in video streaming services, energy efficiency and sustainability in digital media production, distribution and playback are becoming increasingly crucial along the entire value chain. Video streaming that is technically more efficient provides the basis for a more energy-efficient and, therefore, more sustainable streaming value chain.

As part of the project, all components along the streaming value chain are analyzed in terms of their energy efficiency: A/V encoders, packaging, content delivery networks (CDN), A/V players and end devices. Fraunhofer FOKUS focuses on context-related, energy-efficient video encoding and the corresponding player components. Machine learning methods and AI (artificial intelligence) models are also being used here. A green digital twin of the holistically considered streaming value chain forms the model for reality and, thus, the foundation to develop technical innovations for a more energy-efficient video streaming.

Initial analyses and measurements already show that AI-supported video encoding can contribute significantly to reducing data rates – and thus also to financial and ecological savings in the operation, distribution and provision of streaming content.

The project involves Fraunhofer FOKUS, KlimAktiv gGmbH, Logic media solutions GmbH, Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg, Deutsche Telekom AG and The Chainless GmbH.