How has data compression evolved over the years?

How has data compression evolved over the years?

Data compression has evolved significantly from simple techniques like run-length encoding to complex algorithms like JPEG and MP3. Early methods focused on reducing file size without losing quality, while modern techniques leverage machine learning for even greater efficiency.

What are some key milestones in data compression history?

Key milestones include the development of Huffman coding in the 1950s, the introduction of the ZIP format in the 1980s, and the emergence of lossy compression methods like MP3 and JPEG in the 1990s.

How do modern compression algorithms work?

Modern algorithms often use techniques like predictive coding, where the algorithm predicts data values based on previous values, and entropy coding, which encodes data based on its frequency of occurrence.

What impact has data compression had on technology?

Data compression has revolutionized storage and transmission, enabling faster internet speeds, reduced storage costs, and the ability to stream high-quality media seamlessly.