Verizon Applies Coding to Save Bandwidth

Verizon Wireless has developed software technology that cuts video traffic by transmitting only the parts of an image that change, Verizon Communications  Anthony Melone, chief technology officer said. It isn't immediately clear whether the coding is done "on the fly" or required pre-processing video. 


That doesn't mean Verizon will not eventually need more bandwidth, but does indicate the range of options and activities service providers are engaging in, to better manage bandwidth. 


Engineers working to develop high-definition television early hit upon the idea of transmitting only the portion of scenes that change, which allows lower bandwidth. Other techniques include the intentional "bit robbing" of information that the human eye cannot detect. The impairments are there, but people cannot see the impairments. 


"There are things that can be done that reduce the amount of bits without degrading quality the consumer can notice," according to Melone. 


Verizon Wireless also is using "multiple input, multiple output" (MIMO) techniques that help the firm economize on consumed bandwidth.


AT&T likewise is said to be working  with Intucell Ltd., whose software automatically assists wireless coverage areas, or cells, that are overloaded. That approach might not help reduce video bandwidth, but does better distribute the load.