Multidifferential video coding algorithm for video conferencing applications

This paper introduces a multi-differential video coding algorithm for the efficient transmission of video conference streams. Because the camera is typically stationary during a video conference, we can take advantage of this information to aid in the robust transmission of the video. Specifically, we describe two simple techniques that can be used to segment the video in to background and foreground information. Using this information, we can then efficiently transmit the video stream while reducing the burstiness seen at the network layer. This technique does not require any changes to the video compression standard (typically H.261 or H.263 for video conferencing) but can reduce the bandwidth required for transmission by 20%. Experimental results are shown with actual video stream traces.