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RMVB, or RealMedia Variable Bitrate, is a file format created by RealNetworks, which is primarily used for storing digital video and audio. This format is known for its ability to compress video files efficiently while preserving quality, making it particularly popular for distributing movies and television shows over the internet.
One of the key features of RMVB is its variable bitrate (VBR) encoding. Unlike constant bitrate (CBR) formats, which maintain a fixed data rate, VBR allows the bitrate to change dynamically depending on the complexity of the video content. This results in better overall quality at smaller file sizes, making RMVB an attractive choice for users looking to save bandwidth and storage space.
RMVB files often contain video encoded with RealVideo and audio encoded with RealAudio, though they can also support other codecs. The format gained significant popularity in the early 2000s, especially in Asia, where it was frequently used for distributing pirated films and television series.
Despite its advantages, RMVB has seen a decline in usage with the rise of more versatile and widely supported formats such as MP4 and MKV. Many modern media players and devices have limited support for RMVB, making it less favorable for new content distribution.
RealNetworks has provided the official software to create and play RMVB files, but the format's proprietary nature has restricted its adoption in open-source projects. As a result, users often turn to third-party applications and converters to handle RMVB files.
Overall, RMVB remains a notable format in the history of digital video, particularly for its role in early online media distribution. It serves as a reminder of the evolution of video codecs and formats in response to the growing demand for high-quality content delivery.