ISO/IEC 23090-31:2025

Overview

ISO/IEC 23090-31:2025 - "Information technology - Coded representation of immersive media - Part 31: Haptics coding" defines a standardized, efficient representation and transport format for haptic signals used in immersive experiences. It addresses encoding and playback of the two most widely used haptic perceptions today - vibrotactile and kinaesthetic - while enabling support for additional modalities. The standard provides both a human‑readable JSON interchange format and a compressed bitstream optimized for memory and distribution. Decoder behavior is normative; encoder and renderer guidance is informative.

Keywords: ISO/IEC 23090-31:2025, haptics coding, haptic media, vibrotactile, kinaesthetic, JSON, compressed bitstream, MIHS, HJIF, immersive media.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Data model and structure: formal representations for haptic experience, avatar, perception, device, channel, band, effect and keyframe to ensure consistent interpretation across systems.
• Interchange formats:
  • HJIF (Haptics JSON Interchange Format) - human‑readable JSON schemas for descriptive and quantized data exchange.
  • Compressed bitstream (MIHS - MPEG‑I Haptic Stream) - packetized format with initialization units, temporal/spatial units, metadata and data packets optimized for transmission and storage.
• Support for perceptions: explicit encoding for vibrotactile and kinaesthetic signals, with integrated provisions for other haptic modalities.
• Compatibility and interoperability: dual-format approach (descriptive JSON + compressed bitstream) to meet market needs for compatibility with authoring tools and constrained devices.
• Normative decoder specification: decoding semantics and packet syntax are normative to guarantee consistent playback; encoder and renderer guidance is informative.
• Metadata and timing: standardized metadata blocks, sync mechanisms and CRC support for robust streaming and random access.

Practical applications

• Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences delivering synchronized touch feedback.
• Mobile gaming and haptic-rich apps that require low-memory, low-latency distribution.
• Telepresence, remote robotic control and medical training systems needing precise kinaesthetic feedback.
• Content creation pipelines and asset exchange between authoring tools, middleware and device firmware.
• Accessibility and assistive technologies that rely on standardized tactile cues.

Who should use this standard

• Haptic device manufacturers and actuator designers
• Middleware and SDK developers for immersive platforms
• Content creators and studios producing haptic-enabled assets
• Streaming and distribution services delivering immersive media
• Standards bodies and test labs validating interoperability

Related standards

• ISO/IEC 23090 family (MPEG‑I immersive media) and MPEG‑I haptics (MIHS) components referenced within the document for stream syntax and application interoperability.

ISO/IEC 23090-31:2025 establishes a practical, interoperable foundation for encoding, exchanging and rendering haptic content across devices and distribution channels - essential for scalable, cross‑platform immersive experiences.