Video streaming is getting better every year. As we head into 2025, there’s a new video format getting a lot of attention. It’s called AV1. But what is AV1? And more importantly, which devices can actually play it?
Don’t worry, we’re here to break it down for you. No complex tech talk. Just the basics, in simple terms.
What is AV1?
AV1 is a new video codec. Think of it like a smarter way to shrink videos so they play smoothly without using lots of internet. It’s free, open-source, and backed by big names like Google, Apple, Netflix, and Amazon.
AV1 compresses video better than older formats like H.264 or VP9. That means:
- Less data used
- Faster loading times
- Better quality at lower bitrates
Sounds pretty great, right? But there’s one catch — you need the right device to play AV1 smoothly.
Why 2025 is a Big Year for AV1
In the past few years, AV1 was mostly used behind the scenes by companies like YouTube and Netflix. Many devices weren’t ready to handle AV1 playback. But in 2025? That’s changed.
Thanks to newer hardware, AV1 is going mainstream. That means you’ll start seeing it more often — whether you’re watching cat videos, streaming 4K movies, or video chatting with friends.
What Devices Support AV1 Playback in 2025?
Here’s the exciting part. Many devices now support AV1 — either through software or built-in hardware. So let’s look at the most common categories where AV1 is now supported.
1. Smartphones
Most flagship phones from the last couple of years can handle AV1. If your device came out in 2023 or later, chances are you’re good to go.
Popular AV1-ready smartphones in 2025:
- Samsung Galaxy S21 and newer
- Google Pixel 6 and up
- iPhone 15 and later (hardware support starts with iPhone 15 Pro)
- OnePlus 10T and newer
- Xiaomi 12 Series and onwards
Not all cheap smartphones support AV1 well. Some use software decoding, which can drain your battery. So if AV1 matters to you, go for a phone with hardware AV1 support.
2. Laptops and PCs
Most modern laptops and desktops now support AV1. Some do it with dedicated chips, which is the best way to enjoy smooth playback.
AV1 support on Windows and Mac:
- Intel: 11th Gen CPUs support AV1 in software, 12th Gen and later offer hardware decoding
- AMD: Ryzen 7000 series and newer support AV1
- NVIDIA: RTX 30 series (Ampere) and above support it
- Apple: M2 and M3 chips have full AV1 playback capabilities
Bonus tip: If your browser is updated (like Chrome, Edge, or Firefox), it’ll usually play AV1 videos online without problems — as long as your hardware can handle it.
3. TVs and Streaming Devices
More streaming platforms are using AV1 to deliver higher quality with less buffering. So that smart TV in your living room? It might already be future-proof.
Smart TVs and boxes that support AV1 playback:
- LG and Samsung 2023 models and beyond
- Google Chromecast with Google TV (HD and 4K versions)
- Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen)
- Roku Ultra 2024 version and newer
- Nvidia Shield TV (software decoding)
Note: Older devices may attempt AV1 playback but might struggle with buffering or quality drops.
4. Game Consoles
AV1 is making its way into gaming too! Mostly for game streaming services like xCloud or PS Now.
Current consoles with AV1 support or planned support:
- Xbox Series X and Series S – hardware AV1 decoding included
- PlayStation 5 – support expected through software updates
- Steam Deck – has some AV1 capabilities, depending on game stream success
5. Tablets
Like phones, tablets are slowly getting on the AV1 train. High-end models usually offer better support.
Tablets with good AV1 support include:
- iPad Pro with M2 or M3
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 and S9
- Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (with Intel chips)
- Lenovo Tab Extreme
Some cheaper tablets may still lack AV1 support, especially if they rely only on software decoding.
Streaming Services Pushing AV1
You may not even realize that you’re watching AV1 videos — and that’s the point. Major content platforms have started rolling out AV1 streaming to save bandwidth and offer better quality.
Services already using AV1 (or testing AV1 in 2025):
- YouTube – many 4K and HD streams use AV1 by default
- Netflix – AV1 is used on compatible platforms for 1080p and 4K
- TikTok – testing AV1 for smoother uploads and streams
- Zoom & Google Meet – rolling out AV1 for video calls to save data
- Twitch – experimenting with AV1 for high-bitrate streams
Why Should You Care?
Good question! Here’s why AV1 matters to everyday users like you:
- Less buffering on slow connections
- Better image quality when streaming
- Smaller files when downloading
- Video calls look better, even in low-light conditions
It’s one of those upgrades you don’t need to think about. But when it’s there — you notice it.
How Can You Check If Your Device Supports AV1?
There are a few ways:
- Search your device’s model and specs online. Look for “AV1 hardware decoding.”
- Try playing a known AV1 video on YouTube. There are test videos available.
- In Chrome or Edge, right-click the video and click “Stats for nerds.” You should see AV1 listed under codec if it’s being used.
Wrapping It Up
AV1 isn’t just a fancy codec with a cool name. It’s the future of online video. And in 2025, that future is already here.
Most modern devices — from phones to laptops to TVs — now support AV1. Better yet, you don’t even have to do anything to enjoy it. Just press play.
If you plan to buy a new device soon, check for AV1 support. It’ll keep your video experience smooth, sharp, and ready for what’s next.
Get ready for sharper streams and less data — thanks to AV1!
