Setting the standard

In 1998, the group developed MPEG-1, the format in which Video CDs and MP3s (MPEG-1 layer III) are recorded. Later it created MPEG-2, which is used on DVDs. Like its predecessors, MPEG-4 is an open standard technology, meaning the content can be played across all kinds of devices and channels, from wireless devices to satellite television. Its creators say it can deliver MPEG-2 quality video at lower data rates and smaller file sizes, seamlessly delivering high-quality audio and video over the internet, IP networks and digital-media devices. With around a one-tenth compression rate, it can compress multi-gigabyte files into a few hundred megabytes. In order to receive the broadcast in this format, viewers will either have to buy a set-top-box to make the signal readable for their TV, or will have to buy a new TV with the technology already installed.