Samsung’s APV Codec Set to Outperform Apple’s ProRes in Storage Efficiency
Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 series is set to transform the Android camera phone landscape, potentially competing with Apple’s iPhone Pro models in professional video features. A recent leak indicates that Samsung will launch an Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec throughout the Galaxy S26 range. This novel codec is expected to provide near-lossless video recording with more compact file sizes, maintaining detail more effectively than current alternatives while reducing storage requirements.
The Galaxy S26 is speculated to include LOG recording and integrated LUT profiles, permitting users to capture flat footage and see color grades on the device directly. Other video enhancements encompass Horizon Lock for more stable shots, improved document scanning, advanced Motion Photo settings, and USB-C external drive compatibility for handling large file transfers.
Samsung intends to directly serve creators, with early reports suggesting support for variable frame rates, including 1080p and 4K recording at 25, 50, or 100 fps, and 8K video limited to 25fps. The S26 series is anticipated to provide 12-bit color depth, HDR capabilities (including HDR10 and HDR10+), and around 20% improved efficiency in comparison to HEVC or ProRes formats.
Despite challenges such as managing heat and battery consumption during long recording sessions, the Galaxy S26 could facilitate pro-level video shooting on Android devices. Should these features come to fruition, the S26 series may finally pose a challenge to Apple’s supremacy in mobile video.
