ISO/IEC 23090-2:2023

Overview

ISO/IEC 23090-2:2023 defines the omnidirectional media format as part of the broader suite of standards for immersive media representation. Published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard plays a crucial role in enabling the efficient encoding, storage, delivery, and rendering of omnidirectional media assets, including video, images, audio, and timed text. It also addresses the integration of computer-generated graphics as image or video resources and supports multiple viewpoints, each associated with an omnidirectional camera. The standard is fundamental for ensuring interoperability and high-quality user experiences in virtual reality (VR), 360-degree video, and other immersive environments.

Key Topics

• Omnidirectional Media Representation Supports 360-degree videos and images, including computer-generated graphics, by specifying flexible formats for capturing and presenting content from all directions.

• Storage and Signalling Defines how omnidirectional media and related metadata are encapsulated, signalled, and stored, with specific extensions for the ISO Base Media File Format (ISOBMFF).

• Delivery Methods Details mechanisms for streaming omnidirectional media using protocols such as Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH) and MPEG Media Transport (MMT), meeting the requirements of adaptive bitrate and viewport-based delivery.

• Overlay Support Provides methods for encoding, storing, and delivering overlay images or video that appear over the omnidirectional background, enhancing interactivity and user engagement.

• Multiple Viewpoints and Viewport Management Enables content creators to define multiple viewing perspectives, supporting advanced uses like multi-camera VR experiences and individualized user navigation.

• Region-wise Packing and Quality Ranking Facilitates efficient storage and transmission by supporting region-based encoding and quality ranking, enabling dynamic focus and resource optimization.

Applications

Adopting ISO/IEC 23090-2:2023 brings significant practical value to sectors developing or using immersive media:

• Virtual Reality (VR) Solutions Essential for VR platforms, headsets, and applications where 360° video and audio must be delivered seamlessly for an immersive user experience.

• 360-degree Video Streaming Streaming services leveraging omnidirectional content benefit from standardized media formats, enabling high-quality playback across devices and reducing compatibility challenges.

• Interactive Media and Education Enables the integration of overlays, graphics, and multiple viewpoints for interactive training, educational modules, and museum experiences, facilitating richer storytelling and engagement.

• Entertainment and Live Events Elevates live sports, concerts, and events with multiple viewpoints and overlays, delivering more options for interactivity and audience immersion.

• Augmented Reality (AR) and Hybrid Experiences Supports the merging of real-world camera feeds with computer-generated graphics, paving the way for blended AR/VR applications.

Related Standards

For organizations looking to implement or integrate omnidirectional media solutions, familiarity with the following standards is beneficial:

• ISO/IEC 23090-1 - Immersive Media General Requirements
• ISO Base Media File Format (ISOBMFF) - Foundation for media storage and signalling (ISO/IEC 14496-12)
• Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH) - Streaming protocol for adaptive media delivery (ISO/IEC 23009)
• MPEG Media Transport (MMT) - Signalling and delivery for immersive media
• CMAF (Common Media Application Format) - Profiled implementation for media streaming (ISO/IEC 23000-19)

By adhering to ISO/IEC 23090-2:2023, industries driving 360° video, VR, and immersive applications ensure future-ready, interoperable products that deliver engaging, standardized experiences worldwide.