Bitrate (ABR)

Adaptive Bitrate (ABR) is a technique used in streaming media delivery to optimize the viewing experience by dynamically adjusting the quality of the video based on the viewer's network conditions. It ensures smooth playback by automatically switching between different bitrates and resolutions to match the available bandwidth.

ABR works by dividing the video content into small chunks and encoding them at multiple quality levels. These chunks are then served to the viewer's device, which selects the appropriate chunk based on the current network conditions. If the network is congested, a lower quality chunk is selected to prevent buffering. Conversely, if the network improves, a higher quality chunk is chosen to enhance the viewing experience.

This adaptive approach allows viewers to enjoy uninterrupted streaming, regardless of their network connection. It also enables content providers to reach a wider audience by catering to different devices and network capabilities. ABR is widely used in popular streaming platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable streaming experience for millions of users worldwide.