Advancements and Challenges in 360-Degree Virtual Reality Video Streaming at the Edge: A Comprehensive Review

With the proliferation of Virtual Reality (VR) applications, 360-degree video streaming has emerged as a captivating and immersive medium, transforming the way users consume multimedia content. This review paper provides a comprehensive examination of the current state-of-the-art in 360- degree VR video streaming, with a specific focus on edge computing architectures. The paper begins by offering an overview of the key components of 360-degree video streaming, including encoding techniques, adaptive bitrate streaming, and delivery protocols. Subsequently, it delves into the role of edge computing in enhancing the performance and efficiency of VR video streaming. The edge computing paradigm brings computing resources closer to end-users, reducing latency and bandwidth requirements, and improving overall Quality of Experience (QoE). A critical analysis of existing edgebased solutions for 360-degree VR video streaming is presented, highlighting the strengths and limitations of various approaches. The review explores advancements in edge-based content delivery networks (CDNs), edge caching strategies, and edge-assisted video processing to optimize the delivery of immersive VR experiences. Moreover, the paper addresses the unique challenges posed by 360- degree content, such as high-resolution streaming, increased data volume, and the need for real-time processing. It discusses ongoing research efforts and innovative technologies aimed at overcoming these challenges, including efficient video compression algorithms, low-latency streaming protocols, and machine learning-driven optimizations. The review also sheds light on emerging trends, such as the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Edge AI for content analysis and personalized streaming experiences. Additionally, considerations related to security, privacy, and standardization in the context of edge-based 360-degree VR video streaming are explored. In conclusion, this review paper offers a panoramic view of the current landscape of 360-degree VR video streaming with a specific emphasis on edge computing. By synthesizing existing literature and identifying research gaps, it provides valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and industry stakeholders working towards the advancement of immersive multimedia experiences in the era of edge computing