User:Kmenzel/Helvetica

Windows Media Video describes a collection of codecs developed by Microsoft Corporation. This includes WMV-9, which is the basis for the VC-1 standard used in HD-DVD and BluRay technology.

History
The Windows Media Video codec was developed to compete with Real Network’s RealVideo codec, and was based on a proprietary MPEG implementation until it was standardized as an MPEG-4 implementation upon the release of Windows Media Video 9. WMV-9 offered many improvements over previous WMV formats, including support for non-square pixel aspect ratios, and improved frame interpolation. WMV-9 implements the Microsoft developed SMPTE 421M standard, which has gained acceptance through its use in HD-DVD and BluRay technologies.

Implementations
The Windows Media Video codec family is supported on a variety of devices – including all “PlaysForSure” devices. The codec is well supported in Microsoft Windows; native support for the format is supplied in Windows Media Player, included with the operating system. The format is also implemented on the Xbox 360 gaming console. Streaming is facilitated using the Microsoft designed ASF container.

Controversy
Complaints surrounding the WMV codec are usually due to its support of DRM. Recent criticism regarding WMV-DRM Licensing is due to the removed ability to back up and restore licenses as of the introduction of Windows Media Player 11.