YouTube has begun to clarify its schedule for transitioning to the next-generation AV2 format for video streaming. It has been reported that the platform aims to roll out AV2 streaming on the web starting in early 2027.
The new codec is expected to provide approximately 30 percent better compression efficiency compared to the current AV1 standard. This means that the same image quality can be delivered at a lower bit rate, or higher quality images can be achieved without increasing bandwidth requirements.
YouTube Engineering Director Des Keane stated that the platform supports "codecs that deliver the highest quality video with the fewest playback interruptions." Keane noted that as of March 19, 2026, more than 90 percent of the YouTube catalog was being served in the AV1 format, and that AV2 would lay the groundwork for both better video quality and new multi-video features.
TO BE USED ON THE WEB PLATFORM IN THE FIRST PHASE
It is noted that AV2 may not be limited to just a faster and higher-quality streaming experience. Chrome Vice President of Engineering Jim Bankoski said the new format could pave the way for different browser-based experiences, ranging from multi-video view options to higher-resolution and more efficient video calls.
However, the widespread adoption of the transition will also depend on hardware support. Hardware-accelerated AV2 decoding support, especially on mobile devices, is important for playback efficiency. Yet, no clear timeline has been shared regarding when AV2 support will become widespread in consumer-grade CPUs and GPUs.
The target announced by YouTube covers web streaming for now. No date has been given for when AV2 support will be implemented for mobile applications and smart televisions.
News Source: 12punto
