This article examines the transformative impact of hardware video encoders on contemporary content creation across various industries. As demand for high-quality video content continues to surge across digital platforms, dedicated encoding hardware integrated into system-on-chip technology has become an essential component, enabling real-time, power-efficient video processing directly on mobile and edge devices. The evolution from software-based encoding to specialized silicon solutions has dramatically reduced computational demands while improving compression efficiency. These advancements, particularly when enhanced with artificial intelligence capabilities, are revolutionizing video production workflows by democratizing access to professional-grade tools previously restricted to specialized studios. The integration with emerging technologies, such as volumetric capture and extended reality, is further expanding creative possibilities for content creators worldwide. Through examining technical architectures, industry transformations, and future directions, the article demonstrates how hardware encoding technologies have fundamentally altered the economics and accessibility of professional media production.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Hardware encoders, content democratization, immersive media, video compression
