What is Common Media Application Format (CMAF)?

Common Media Application Format (CMAF) is a digital media standard developed by MPEG that defines a uniform format for encoding and packaging segmented media objects. It is designed to support adaptive streaming and to enable efficient media delivery across a wide range of playback devices and platforms.

CMAF provides a standardized structure for delivering audio and video in short, time-aligned segments. These segments can be used by different streaming protocols, such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) and MPEG-DASH, allowing a single set of media files to serve multiple platforms. The format is compatible with common container structures like the ISO Base Media File Format (.mp4), and it supports both live and on-demand streaming.

By unifying the packaging of segmented content, CMAF helps reduce redundancy in workflows, lower storage requirements, and streamline content distribution across diverse ecosystems.

What are key features of Common Media Application Format (CMAF)

CMAF was created to address the need for interoperability between streaming systems. Core features of the format include:

Segmented media delivery: CMAF divides content into small, fixed-duration chunks that support adaptive bitrate streaming.
Cross-platform compatibility: A single set of CMAF-encoded segments can be used for both HLS and DASH, reducing the need for duplicate encodings.
Support for encryption and DRM: CMAF works with Common Encryption (CENC), enabling secure content delivery across protected environments.
Low-latency streaming: Extensions to CMAF support low-latency use cases, particularly for live broadcasts.

What are the applications of CMAF in streaming?

CMAF is commonly used in modern streaming workflows, including Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) and live video platforms. Its compatibility with adaptive streaming technologies allows publishers to serve content efficiently to a wide range of connected TVs, mobile devices, and browsers.

The format also facilitates personalized ad delivery and improves scalability by reducing the number of media variants needed for distribution.

How wide is industry adoption of CMAF?

Major technology providers and streaming platforms have adopted CMAF as part of their video delivery pipelines. Its alignment with open standards has made it a key component of interoperable streaming solutions.

By enabling a more consistent and efficient method of packaging media, CMAF plays an important role in the ongoing evolution of adaptive streaming technologies.