Hybrid framework for no-reference video quality indication over LTE networks

This paper proposes an efficient hybrid no-reference video quality indication framework for video transmission over LTE networks. Taking the easily obtained PCAP file from an LTE network node as input, we analyze various header information in the IP packets, extract H.264 payload, and save the payload in a bitstream conforming to the H.264 Annex B format. The H.264 bitstream is further decoded and the quality of the decoded video is measured with no-reference algorithms. Packet level metrics such as packet loss and packet size, bitstream level metrics such as frame error and frame duration, and image level metrics such as blockiness and blur, are obtained using respective efficient and novel algorithms. The metrics from this hybrid framework are crucial for predicting video quality MOS score. Furthermore, the IP packets are mapped to respective video frame, which enables to monitor the effect of network impairments on video quality, troubleshoot network issues, and eventually improve end user QoE.