Video Transcoding

What Is Video Transcoding?

Video transcoding is the process of converting a video file from one format, resolution, or bitrate into another. It ensures that video content can be streamed or played on a wide variety of devices—like smart TVs, phones, tablets, and desktops—regardless of technical limitations or internet connection speed.

In streaming TV, transcoding is essential for preparing high-quality content that can adapt to the viewer’s device and network conditions in real time.

How Video Transcoding Works

When a video is uploaded, it often exists in a single high-resolution format that isn’t ideal for all users. During transcoding, that video is re-encoded into multiple formats with different:

• Resolutions (such as 1080p, 720p, or 480p)
• Bitrates (how much data the video uses)
• Codecs (like H.264 or HEVC, which compress the video for efficient delivery)

These multiple versions allow streaming platforms to use adaptive bitrate streaming, which automatically selects the best version based on the viewer’s internet speed and device.

Why Transcoding Is Critical in Streaming TV

Without video transcoding, viewers might experience buffering, delays, or playback errors—especially if the video isn’t formatted for their screen or bandwidth. Transcoding helps streaming platforms:

• Deliver smooth playback across all screen sizes and devices
• Reduce buffering and lag by matching video to network speed
• Optimize storage and bandwidth while maintaining quality

This makes it a foundational step for distributing live channels, on-demand content, and short-form video in today’s streaming ecosystem.

Transcoding vs. Encoding vs. Concoding

• Encoding is the original process of compressing raw video into a digital format.
• Transcoding (sometimes called concoding) is when a video is converted from one encoded version to another.
• Concoding is a less common term, often used interchangeably with transcoding, especially in broadcasting.

For example, a high-resolution video may be transcoded into several lower-resolution versions to support playback on mobile devices or in low-bandwidth conditions.

Video Transcoding and Wurl

Wurl enables scalable video delivery for global streaming platforms by supporting efficient transcoding at every step. Whether it’s launching a FAST channel or distributing on-demand shows, Wurl ensures that all content is properly transcoded and streaming-ready.

This helps content publishers reach viewers on platforms like Roku, Samsung, LG, and Vizio—delivering high-quality video every time.

Conclusion

Video transcoding is a vital process in the streaming TV workflow. It ensures that content is optimized for performance, quality, and compatibility—so that every viewer gets the best possible experience, no matter what device they’re using.