JVET-AN0081 AHG18: Software fixes for robust decoding in unicast scenario [K. Malyshev, V. Khamidullin, M. Sychev, S. Ikonin, E. Alshina (Huawei)]

The ultra-low latency simulation scenario of AHG18 considers decoding robustness under possible network packet losses. These may cause the unavailability of the referenced APS NAL units and breaking the decoding process. To ensure robust decoding four aspects are considered, and specific modifications are proposed: signalling in the slice header to provide a robust CTU-level decoding process; new logic to skip the ALF process when the referenced APS NAL unit is unavailable; functionality to obtain standalone APS NAL units apart of VCL NAL unit; and the new command line option BitsForPoc for encoder to enable the long reference case. These modifications were used in JVET-AN0080 “AHG18: CfE response in additional functionality on ultra-low latency and packet loss resilience” for anchor and test generation.

F. Bossen suggests to implement aspect 4 also in VTM main branch. It was suggested to call it BitsForPocLsb.

Decision (SW): Adopt JVET-AN0081. Include all 4 aspects in AHG18 software branch, aspect 1 disabled by default. Include aspect 4 in VTM main branch.