AV1 Video Extension is a utility application from Microsoft. This free program enables users to play AV1 videos. It works as an extension that helps your favorite video apps play videos encoded using the AV1 video coding standard from the Alliance for Open Media.

AV1 Video Extension works well with the native Movies & TV app and Windows Media Player. It also downloads the AV1 codec and installs it immediately. Note, however, that it requires Windows 10 version 17763.0 or higher to proceed. Additionally, it is still in the beta phase, so expect a few performance issues. 

How do you use AV1 Video Extension?

AV1, or AOMedia Video 1, is an open, royalty-free video coder used primarily for accelerating video transmission and delivery over the internet. Compared with the well-known H.264, HEVC, VP8, and VP9, it can deliver ultra-high-quality video with a smaller file size. Even better, it uses lower bandwidth. However, it is still uncommon, and most media players do not offer support to play these types of videos.

AV1 Video Extension is an extension that extends the capacity of your player and enables it to play AV1-encoded video content. The app is easy to download and install as it does not require additional steps other than clicking the download button. Once downloaded, it automatically downloads and installs the AV1 codec, allowing you to play AV1 videos on your native player smoothly. Although, you might need to reboot Windows.

However, as noted, the app is still in the early release, and you might see some performance issues when playing AV1 videos. Moreover, it only works with Windows 10 version 17763.0 and higher. Users with older versions of Windows will have to make do with other apps, such as K-Lite Codec Pack, or convert their AV1 videos using video transcoders, such as HD Video Converter Factory Pro.

Should you use it?

All in all, AV1 Video Extension is a useful application for those who prefer the AV1 video format. With this added to your device, you can play any AV1-coded videos without downloading a third-party video player. However, you can only use it on Windows 10 version 17763.0 or higher. Moreover, it is still in the beta stage, meaning there will be issues with its performance.