Science & Tech · Big Tech & Internet · 3 hrs ago
YouTube plans to begin AV2 streaming on the web in early 2027
YouTube plans to start streaming video in AV2 on its website as soon as early 2027.
AV2 is a new video format designed to replace AV1, which already carries more than 90% of YouTube viewing time, according to the company.
AV2 is expected to be 25% to 32% more efficient than AV1, allowing better quality at the same data rate or similar quality using less data.
That could mean less bandwidth use and fewer playback interruptions, though the sources do not say how much viewers will notice.
YouTube also says AV2 could enable new multi-video features, and Chrome executives have pointed to possible improvements for video calls.
The initial rollout is planned for YouTube on the web in early 2027; broader use will depend on software and device support, which is currently limited.
YouTube plans to begin streaming AV2 video on its web platform as early as 2027.
AV2 is designed to deliver similar video quality at a lower bitrate or better quality at the same bitrate than AV1.
YouTube says the codec will bring better video quality and enable new multi-video capabilities.
The rollout is initially for the web, and no confirmed date has been given for mobile apps or smart TVs.
Wider adoption will depend on software and hardware support.
- Who
- YouTube plans to introduce AV2 streaming on its web platform.
- What
- The platform plans to begin streaming video using the AV2 codec.
- When
- As early as 2027.
- Where
- YouTube’s web version.
- Why
- AV2 is intended to improve video quality and reduce the bitrate needed for comparable quality. YouTube also says it enables new multi-video capabilities.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The Alliance for Open Media released the definitive specifications for the AV2 codec.
More than 90% of YouTube’s catalog, weighted by watch time, was available in AV1, according to YouTube.
YouTube plans to begin making AV2 streams available on the web.
- Initial platform
- YouTube web version
- Planned timing
- As early as 2027
- Predecessor codec
- AV1
- AV1 catalog availability
- More than 90% as of March 19, 2026, weighted by watch time
- AV2 efficiency estimate
- About 25% to 32% more efficient than AV1, according to Android Authority
3 sources
What people are saying
YouTube champions open codecs that deliver the best quality video with the fewest playback interruptions.
YouTube AV2 streams will be available for Web as soon as early 2027.
Beyond faster, higher-quality streaming, AV2 lays the groundwork for new browser experiences, from better multi-view video to higher-resolution, more efficient video conferencing.