AV1 is a video compression format used in modern media workflows. Devices can decode it through suitable hardware or software, depending on their capabilities and the application. As with other codecs, successful playback depends on the complete encoding properties and player implementation, rather than only on the display being labelled 4K or smart.
A practical example
A computer browser with a suitable software decoder may play AV1 media that an older television app cannot decode. The same network connection can therefore produce different playback results because the two devices handle the compressed video differently.
A common misunderstanding
Do not assume every recent television or application supports every AV1 stream. Check the actual device and playback path instead of treating a marketing generation as a decoder specification.
Related terms
Further reading
Stable technical definition. Editorial approach