AV1 video decode and H.265/264 encode support has been added to Vulkan Video

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Vulkan Video now supports AV1 decoding and H.265/264 encoding

Khronos Group announces Vulkan integration for AV1 decoding. 



The most recent update of Vulkan, version 1.3.277, represents a milestone as it introduces support for AV1 decoding, an important update for this open-source and royalty-free video coding format via the Vulkan Video extension. Additionally, this release is also combined with the previous update that added support for H.264 and H.265 formats, but in this case, with a focus on encoding capabilities within Vulkan Video.

Khoronos has confirmed that work is already underway to include AV1 encoding support in the future as well, although the exact timeline for this update is unclear. Nevertheless, the Vulkan Video extensions now provide extensive support for various video formats through a single streamlined API. With Vulkan support from all major GPU makers, Vulkan developers will no longer have to rely on 3rd party extensions to support videos coding within their projects.



Vulkan Video update, Source: Khoronos

In regard to support for graphics hardware, not all GPU manufacturers already have their drivers available. Notably, Intel is yet to release their drivers, while both NVIDIA and AMD have already made their updated drivers available. Additionally, NVIDIA is offering an open-source Vulkan Video sample that demonstrates the use of H.264/H.265 encoding and AV1 decoding extensions in a project.

AV1 Vulkan Video drivers:

• NVIDIA: Windows and Linux beta drivers support Decode AV1 today, with an imminent  production driver that will add Decode AV1 to already shipping H.264/H.265 Encode support.
  
• AMD: Windows beta driver for Encode H.264/H.265 and Decode AV1.
  
• Intel: Windows driver coming soon.
  

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