The future of digital video is volumetric – here’s how we’ll get there

In the next few years, we will see exciting new advancements in digital video, from sports broadcasts and e-commerce to social media and more

Digital video is continually evolving. From SD to Ultra HD, there is a consistent desire from both manufacturers and audiences to embrace better forms of the technology. Regardless of the advancement, however, the goal is the same: to make the viewing experience more immersive. But what if rather than just looking sharper or offering more colours, you could turn on your favourite sports team and control the broadcast? Or open up the app for your favourite online clothing maker and have a fashion show appear on your coffee table?

While there are multiple paths forward in how digital video progresses, one of the most promising and fastest growing formats is volumetric video. Content creators can use volumetric video to create holograms that can be accessed on a 2D monitor, or dropped directly into your living room through augmented reality (AR). And if you want an immersive experience, it doesn’t get much more immersive than looking over to your couch and seeing a photorealistic recreation of your favourite musician sitting there and smiling back at you.

Here are a few ways that volumetric video will impact content consumption, and how it will all come together.

VIDEO WITH DEPTH

In 2021, e-commerce sales grew 14.2% in the US alone. That exponential growth might plateau a bit as the effects from the pandemic lessen, but even before COVID, online retail was on a seemingly permanent upward trajectory. And with that growth means more competition, which in turn means more e-commerce companies are looking for ways to stand out.