DivXNetworks updates video codec

DivXNetworks on Wednesday issued its latest video compression technology, DivX 5.1, which boasts faster decoding times and a new video player. The San Diego-based company said the compression software, or codec, decodes video files 10 percent to 30 percent faster than does its previous version.

The new codec also gives programmers greater control over the rate at which video is encoded and includes two new algorithms to its proprietary Psychovisual Modeling feature, which is designed to enhance efficiency. The software includes two versions, DivX Pro 5.1 for professionals and a standard, free version. The DivX video codec is compatible with the industry standard compression technology, MPEG-4 (Moving Picture Experts Group 4), and has more than 90 million users worldwide.