User:Kmenzel/Helvetica
Windows Media Video describes a collection of codecs developed by Microsoft Corporation. This includes WMV-9, which is the basis for the VC-1 standard used in HD-DVD and BluRay technology.
History
[edit]The Windows Media Video codec was developed to compete with Real Network’s RealVideo codec, and was based on a proprietary MPEG implementation until it was standardized as an MPEG-4 implementation upon the release of Windows Media Video 9. WMV-9 offered many improvements over previous WMV formats, including support for non-square pixel aspect ratios, and improved frame interpolation. [1] WMV-9 implements the Microsoft developed SMPTE 421M standard, which has gained acceptance through its use in HD-DVD and BluRay technologies.
Implementations
[edit]The Windows Media Video codec family is supported on a variety of devices – including all “PlaysForSure” devices.[2] The codec is well supported in Microsoft Windows; native support for the format is supplied in Windows Media Player, included with the operating system. [3] The format is also implemented on the Xbox 360 gaming console.[4] Streaming is facilitated using the Microsoft designed ASF container.
Controversy
[edit]Complaints surrounding the WMV codec are usually due to its support of DRM. [2] Recent criticism regarding WMV-DRM Licensing is due to the removed ability to back up and restore licenses as of the introduction of Windows Media Player 11.[5]
See also
[edit]Microsoft
Microsoft Developers Network