New AI tool in Disney+ Hotstar uses less data while streaming videos

Disney+ Hotstar, the over-the-top (OTT) platform, on Monday introduced a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool that will improve the user experience. The streaming giant claimed that the AI ​​tool will optimize video streaming so that less data is consumed while maintaining the quality of the video. The new feature will also make it more data-efficient to download videos from the platform for offline viewing. Interestingly, the company had announced last month that it would be streaming select English Premier League matches in 4K resolution.

In a press release, the video streaming giant announced the introduction of AI-powered video optimization technology. It is essentially an advanced encoding feature that can optimize data usage based on user habits and scene complexity. Disney+ Hotstar claimed that the technology ensures that users consume less data while maintaining the same picture quality.

It also added that users can expect a 25 percent reduction in downloading videos for offline viewing without losing quality. This is aimed at making the content on the platform more accessible to users with limited data.

Disney+ Hotstar gave a detailed description of the AI ​​feature, saying that the technology uses AI to understand user consumption patterns, as well as the context and complexity surrounding each scene. While it is difficult to understand how user patterns are linked to data optimization, the context and complexity of the scene are likely processed using computer vision to brighten up dark scenes without increasing data usage. The company stressed that the technology is currently patent pending.

Mukund Acharya, Head of Technology, Disney+ Hotstar, further explained that the new AI-powered encoding technique can improve watch time per GB by 12.5 percent. This means users can watch more content with the same data budget.

The company also said that the feature was developed using several AI-based models. However, it did not specify whether these were native or third-party models.