Abstract: The present invention provides techniques for digital video distribution that provides for joint video content watching amongst a group of watchers using multiple mini browsing windows (MBWs), such that the watchers can simultaneously interact with each other in a video conferencing-like setting (i.e., seeing selected watchers' videos in MBWs and hearing their voices) while they view together specific video content in a synchronized way. The MBWs can be displayed as overlays on the main video window being watched on full screen.

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter, in one embodiment, provides techniques to signal inter-layer texture and motion prediction from different direct dependent reference layers. In certain exemplary arrangements, techniques are provided which include one or more syntax elements in a high level syntax structure, e.g., the slice segment header, indicating such different direct dependent reference layer(s).

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter, in one embodiment, provides techniques to signal inter-layer texture and motion prediction from different direct dependent reference layers. In certain exemplary arrangements, techniques are provided which include one or more syntax elements in a high level syntax structure, e.g., the slice segment header, indicating such different direct dependent reference layer(s).

Abstract: Systems and methods for the pairing of room systems, and other systems that lack portability and a convenient user interface, to videoconferences are disclosed herein. In one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter, a user initiates room system pairing from his or her device. For example, the user can press a button on a remote control associated with the room system to set the system to pairing mode. The room system can register with a server that is controlling the videoconferencing system, which in turn can display the room system in a list of available room systems on the user's device. The user can have the option to select the particular room system, instructing the server to add the room system to the conference.

Abstract: System and methods for video decoding include receiving at least one Dependency Parameter Set (DPS); and determining at least one inter-layer dependency based on the received DPS. Systems and methods for video encoding include selecting a layering structure; encoding at least one Dependency Parameter Set (DPS) including a representation of the layering structure in a binary format; and including the encoded DPS in a bitstream or sending the encoded DPS out of band.

Abstract: Systems and methods for using redundant pictures and slice groups to encode spatially scalable H.264 Baseline profile conformant video and to route that video to endpoints of varying capabilities without using the Scalable Video extension of H.264 or transcoding. Reduced resolution versions of primary coded pictures are encoded as slice groups in a full-resolution composite pictures, which are added to the video bitstream as redundant pictures. A router then processes the spatially scaled video bitstream into separate streams having different resolutions and routes these to endpoints of varying capabilities.

Abstract: Systems and methods for multipoint video distribution are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, system for multipoint video distribution include at least one endpoint including a EECM and a DECM, and at least one server including a SECM, the server being coupled to the endpoint. In some embodiments, methods for configuring an encoder include receiving at least one property related to a capability of a decoder, determining a number of layers to be coded by the encoder, and configuring the encoder based on that at least one property.

Abstract: Systems and methods for performing videoconferencing using split endpoints are disclosed herein. These endpoints can include a Main Unit and a Satellite Unit that are associated with each other, and where the tasks of video and audio encoding and decoding are separated between the two. In some embodiment the Main Unit performs video and audio encoding, and the Satellite Unit performs video and audio decoding. In some embodiments the Satellite Unit obtains media date through its associated Main Unit, whereas in other embodiments the Satellite Unit obtains media data directly from the Server.

Abstract: Systems and methods for conducting a multi-endpoint video signal conference are provided. Conferencing endpoints are linked by pairs of a reliable and a less reliable communication channel. Conference video signals are scaleable coded in base layer and enhancement layers format. Video signal base layers, which correspond to a minimum picture quality, are communicated over reliable channels. The video signal enhancements layers may be communicated over the less reliable channels. A conference server mediates the switching of video layer information from transmitting endpoints to receiving endpoints without any intermediate coding or re-coding operations. The video conference can be integrated with an audio conference using either scalable coded audio signals or non-scaleable coded audio signals.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for initiating videoconferences in instant messaging systems is described, including posting of a videoconference URL in the instant messaging chat window if any of the desired participants of the videoconferencing session is unavailable, so that the unavailable participants can simply click on the videoconference URL and join the videoconferencing session.

Abstract: Media communication systems and methods for media encoded using scalable coding with temporal scalability are provided. Transmitting endpoints include switching information in their transmitted media to indicate if temporal level switching at a decoder can occur at any frame of the transmitted encoded media.

Abstract: Systems and methods for error resilient transmission, rate control, and random access in video communication systems that use sealable video coding are provided. Error resilience is obtained by using information from low resolution layers to conceal or compensate loss of high resolution layer information. The same mechanism is used for rate control by selectively eliminating high resolution layer information from transmitted signals, which elimination can be compensated at the receiver using information from low resolution layers. Further, random access or switching between low and high resolutions is also achieved by using information from low resolution layers to compensate for high resolution spatial layer packets that may have not been received prior to the switching time.

Abstract: Systems and methods for error resilient transmission and for random access in video communication systems are provided. The video communication systems are based on single-layer, scalable video, or simulcast video coding with temporal scalability, which may be used in video communication systems. A set of video frames or pictures in a video signal transmission is designated for reliable or guaranteed delivery to receivers using secure or high reliability links, or by retransmission techniques. The reliably-delivered video frames are used as reference pictures for resynchronization of receivers with the transmitted video signal after error incidence and for random access.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are video coding techniques for prediction of a to-be-reconstructed block from enhancement layer/view data from base layer/view data in conjunction with enhancement layer/view data, where samples that are not available in the base or enhancement layer/view, respectively, are being predicted through padding.

Abstract: Systems and methods for error resilient transmission, rate control, and random access in video communication systems that use scalable video coding are provided. Error resilience is obtained by using information from low resolution layers to conceal or compensate loss of high resolution layer information. The same mechanism is used for rate control by selectively eliminating high resolution layer information from transmitted signals, which elimination can be compensated at the receiver using information from low resolution layers. Further, random access or switching between low and high resolutions is also achieved by using information from low resolution layers to compensate for high resolution spatial layer packets that may have not been received prior to the switching time.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are video coding techniques for prediction of a to-be-reconstructed block from enhancement layer/view data from base layer/view data in conjunction with enhancement layer/view data, where samples that are not available in the base or enhancement layer/view, respectively, are being predicted through padding.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for communicating timely information related to the scalability layer structure of signals received by decoders and other components in a video and/or audio communication system. For a communication system, which uses the Standard H.264 SVC coding format, standard SSEI messages are modified or supplemented to include the ability to signal scalability layer structure information and changes thereof. Recipients can use the signal scalability layer information to properly process or decode received signals.

Abstract: The present invention provides bit rate control techniques for a hybrid block based motion compensated predictive video encoder (e.g., H.264, as well as other video coding algorithms and standards). The techniques aim to reduce the picture-to-picture bit rate fluctuations within a prediction structure or over a short time interval that can lead to undesirable additional delay on links without over-provisioned capacity. In one embodiment of the present invention, the end to end delay is estimated. The end to end delay is used to determine limits on the modulation of the target coded picture size, with the goal of trading an acceptable amount of additional delay for a better coding efficiency.

Abstract: Systems and methods for error resilient transmission, rate control, and random access in video communication systems that use scalable video coding are provided. Error resilience is obtained by using information from low resolution layers to conceal or compensate loss of high resolution layer information. The same mechanism is used for rate control by selectively eliminating high resolution layer information from transmitted signals, which elimination can be compensated at the receiver using information from low resolution layers. Further, random access or switching between low and high resolutions is also achieved by using information from low resolution layers to compensate for high resolution spatial layer packets that may have not been received prior to the switching time.

Abstract: Systems and methods for scalable video coding using special inter-layer prediction modes (called telescopic modes) are provided. These modes facilitate accelerated operation of encoders with improved coding efficiency.