Reuse decoder instances on re-preparation + when seeking to a different period

[ojw28]

ExoPlayer V2 re-uses decoder instances where possible as it plays through multiple periods of content (e.g. that have been concatenated using ConcatenatingMediaSource).

However the decoders are always released and re-instantiated if the user explicitly seeks to a period other than the one currently being played, even in cases where it's possible that the instances could be retained and re-used. We should look at optimizing this case.

[ojw28]

We should also look at re-using decoder instances when a new MediaSource is passed via prepare(), where it's possible to do so.

[zsmatyas]

+1 😉

[BrainCrumbz]

Is there any help we can provide in improving this aspect? Have you already thought about potential design changes, or already have an idea that we can try to implement? TA

[ojw28]

Work is in progress. There's a design proposal here. Feel free to post any comments you have. I don't think we need any help on the implementation side.