libspeex

libspeex is a free software codec library that implements the Speex audio compression format. Speex is an open, patent-free, and royalty-free audio codec designed for speech applications, particularly in environments with variable network conditions. It is part of the Xiph.Org Foundation's multimedia codec family, alongside Vorbis and FLAC.

The primary goal of Speex is to provide high-quality speech compression at low bitrates, suitable for applications like Voice over IP (VoIP), voice recording, and speech-enabled interactive systems. The codec supports a range of bitrates, from narrow-band (4 kHz) to wide-band (16 kHz) audio, allowing for flexibility in balancing quality and bandwidth usage. It also includes features for handling packet loss, a common issue in real-time communication over unreliable networks.

libspeex provides both encoding and decoding functionalities for the Speex format. It is written in C, making it highly portable and efficient, and can be integrated into various software projects. The library is widely used in open-source projects and commercial applications that require robust and efficient speech compression. Its open nature and lack of licensing fees have contributed to its adoption in diverse multimedia applications. The project aims to offer a competitive alternative to proprietary speech codecs.