Understanding Compression ― Data Compression for Modern Developers

How can data compression save you? If you’re in the business of building or marketing mobile apps and services, this book is an essential read. Mobile users are consuming and producing so much data today that they routinely exceed their data plans. They leave sites that don’t load quickly and delete apps to save space on their devices. Data compression can help you turn the tide—right away.

This book uses diagrams and games to help you learn about data compression and its value in today’s mobile and big data spaces. No advanced coding knowledge is required. You’ll learn several core algorithms for data compression that you can apply immediately. Authors Colton McAnlis and Aleks Haecky also take you on a fun and engaging tour of the history and theory of data compression by introducing key figures of the compression industry, including Claude Shannon.

If you want to attract and retain mobile users with quick-loading apps that will help them save money, this book is a must. People involved with big data will also benefit, whether they’re students, mid-level engineers, or CTOs. Understanding Compression is a perfect merging of algorithms, history, business advice, and offbeat humor.

Colt McAnlis is a Developer Advocate at Google focusing on Games, compression, and Performance; Before that, he was a graphics programmer in the games industry working at Blizzard, Microsoft (Ensemble), and Petroglyph. He’s been an Adjunct Professor at SMU Guildhall, a UDACITY instructor (twice), and a Book Author. Recently, he’s been teaching Android Devs the Zen of Performance. When he's not working with developers, Colt spends his time preparing for an invasion of giant ants from outer space. He’s also got a whole plethora of publications,videos and other things accounting for over 600,000 views.