ISO/IEC 23090-3:2024

Overview - ISO/IEC 23090-3:2024 (Versatile Video Coding / VVC)

ISO/IEC 23090-3:2024 specifies the syntax, semantics, and decoding process requirements for Versatile Video Coding (VVC), a video coding technology designed to deliver substantially improved compression over prior generations while remaining flexible across many use cases. The standard is intentionally decoder-focused: it defines externally observable bitstream format and decoder output behavior so different systems can interoperate. Areas such as pre‑processing, encoder strategies, signalling/multiplexing, data-loss recovery, and display/post‑processing are outside the scope.

Keywords: ISO/IEC 23090-3, Versatile Video Coding, VVC, video coding standard, video compression, decoder specification, immersive media.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Bitstream structure and NAL units: defines network abstraction layer units and raw byte sequence payloads for interoperable bitstreams.
• Profile, tier and level definitions: normative profiles/tier/level constructs to constrain decoder capability and interoperability.
• Picture and block partitioning: CTUs/CTBs, tiles, slices, subpictures and multi-type tree/quadtree partitioning rules for scalable spatial representation.
• Prediction modes: syntax and decoding behavior for intra, inter, and intra-block copy (IBC) predictions, including motion vector derivation and reference picture lists.
• Transform, quantization and reconstruction: semantics and processes for scaling, transform coefficients, inverse transforms and picture reconstruction.
• In-loop filtering: normative description of deblocking, sample adaptive offset (SAO) and adaptive loop filter (ALF) behaviors.
• Entropy coding and parsing: CABAC parsing, Exp‑Golomb code handling, binarization and related parsing procedures.
• Decoding processes and DPB/HRD semantics: decoding algorithms for slice handling, DPB parameters, timing and hypothetical reference decoder guidance.
• Supplemental information: SEI and VUI message syntax and semantics for conveying auxiliary stream metadata.

Practical applications

ISO/IEC 23090-3 is designed for a wide range of video applications and bitrates:

• Digital storage media (archival and consumer storage)
• Television broadcasting and OTT streaming
• Real-time communication (video conferencing, low-latency streaming)
• Immersive media workflows that require efficient, high-quality video transport

The standard facilitates interchange of coded video data among encoders, decoders, and systems by prescribing the bitstream and decoder behaviors needed for interoperability.

Who should use this standard

• Decoder implementers and silicon/software vendors building compliant VVC decoders
• System architects and integrators defining content transport and storage pipelines
• Broadcasters, streaming providers and device manufacturers ensuring cross-device playback
• Researchers and standards bodies comparing or extending video coding technologies

Related standards

• Other parts of the ISO/IEC 23090 series (immersive media coding family)
• Existing video coding and multimedia system standards (for signalling, multiplexing and transport)

For implementers, ISO/IEC 23090-3:2024 is the definitive reference for VVC bitstream conformance and decoder output behavior to ensure interoperable, high-efficiency video compression.