What is the difference between x265 and the x265 Encoder?
x265 is a cross-platform HEVC encoding library, for video professionals or technically inclined enthusiasts. While it is also provided with a Windows or Linux command-line interface, it is primarily designed to be called via the x265 API. The x265 encoding library requires uncompressed YUV video as input, and it produces a spec-compliant HEVC bitstream as output.
The x265 Encoder is a user-friendly application, designed to make it easy for anyone to convert their video files to HEVC. The x265 Encoder adds a graphical user interface to x265, along with the capability to read and write MP4 container files, and to decode AVC/H.264 (which is necessary in order to allow AVC/H.264 to be converted to HEVC/H.265). The x265 Encoder copies the audio from your source file, writing it back to your output file. The x265 Encoder uses the full x265 library, with no capabilities or performance missing.
What platforms does the x265 HEVC Upgrade support?
The x265 Encoder and UHDcode DirectShow are Windows 64 bit applications. Other platforms may be supported in the future.
Is x265 open-source?
Yes, the x265 HEVC encoding library is (and will always be) available under the GNU GPL v2 open source license. MulticoreWare also makes x265 available under a commercial license, which does not have the open-source requirements of the GPL.
Is the x265 Encoder application open-source?
No. The x265 Encoder application is an implementation that require us to pay MPEG royalties for H.264 and H.265, so we chose not to open source the application code.
Is UHDcode open source?
No. There were already a couple of open-source HEVC decoder projects in development when we started building UHDcode, and so we decided that we would keep UHDcode closed source rather than competing with these projects.
Where can I get HEVC video clips?
You can encode your own with the x265 Encoder, or you can download some sample HEVC video files.
Are there any limitations?
The x265 Encoder includes the full capabilities of the x265 encoding library, including support for Main (8 bits/color sample) and Main10 profiles (10 bits/color sample). The UHDcode DirectShow filter supports all video resolutions and frame rates, but as most consumer video displays only support 8 bits/pixel, it is limited to HEVC Main profile. A professional version of UHDcode is available for professional products.
Who makes x265 and UHDcode?
Are x265 and UHDcode available for my product?
Yes! MulticoreWare licenses UHDcode to leading software and video services companies for a variety of products, from professional video equipment to consumer streaming video services. Email inquiries to sales @ multicorewareinc.com.