HEVC Video Extension Codec for Windows

HEVC Video Extension Codec is a utility that adds decoding capability for videos encoded with High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC or H.265). This codec supports playback of high-compression, high-quality video files that use the HEVC format. It integrates with software that uses built-in video frameworks, such as Films and TV or the native media player. 

HEVC Video Extension Codec is available as a paid add-on through and operates in the background, requiring no interface or configuration settings. Once installed, supported video content can be decoded automatically. The codec is specifically designed for devices with hardware support for HEVC decoding.

Built-in codec integration

HEVC Video Extension Codec integrates directly with multimedia subsystems. Once installed, it enables playback through native apps like the Movies & TV app and third-party tools that leverage Media Foundation. This built-in codec integration allows for seamless decoding without additional configuration. There is no visible interface. There is no user-facing application involved. It works as a system-level extension. This extension bridges HEVC video files with already present decoding frameworks. 

It's optimized for devices that already include hardware decoding capabilities for the H.265 codec. On such systems, it allows accelerated decoding of HEVC content while reducing strain on software and CPU resources. This enables hardware-based decoding, leading to smoother playback and improved efficiency. Devices without dedicated hardware support could not benefit from this codec, as the extension does not provide software-based decoding fallback.

This extension only supports decoding, meaning it allows for playback of HEVC video files but doesn't provide any ability to encode or convert video into HEVC format. You won't find encoding support with this, unlike other tools like HandBrake. There are no modifiable settings, controls, or update options. Once installed, it functions silently and automatically in the background as part of the media pipeline.

A playback support

The HEVC Video Extension Codec adds decoding functionality but doesn't offer encoding, editing, or format conversion capabilities. It works invisibly and only provides system-level playback support for HEVC media. This extension isn't a comprehensive video application or toolkit. Rather, it's precisely designed to unlock H.265 playback on supported hardware through the system's media frameworks, and it performs that specific task effectively.

• Released version