Time Plan Proposal for DaCAS Work

Introduction

This contribution proposes a modified timeline for the Data Collection and Codec Adaptation Study (DaCAS) work item. The proposal is motivated by the agreement at SA4-134-2 Ad-hoc telco on a combined evaluation approach comprising:
- Self-evaluation of submitted example solutions
- Optional cross-evaluation

Since the evaluation requires sufficient time after example solution submission, and certain key milestones (e.g., deliverables) have not yet been agreed, the time plan needs to be updated accordingly.

Key Milestones Identified

The following milestones are considered critical for successful completion of DaCAS work:

1. Completion of database collection
2. Completion of evaluation framework definitions
3. Completion of example solution deliverables definition
4. Submission of example solutions
5. Evaluation of example solutions
6. Completion of specification

Proposed Timeline

SA4#135 India (February 2026)

• Continue further database collection
• Continue defining the evaluation procedure and framework
• Continue defining example solution deliverables

SA4#135-bis-e

• Continue defining the evaluation procedure and framework
• Continue defining example solution deliverables
• Continue further database collection

SA4#136 Montreal

• Complete database collection
• Complete defining evaluation framework
• Complete defining example solution deliverables
• Indications to submit example solution(s)
• Begin self-evaluation

SA4#137e

• Submission of example solution(s) for target devices
• Submission of processed example solution output signals for optional cross-evaluation
• Begin documentation of suitable example solution(s) in draft TS 26.533
• Begin optional cross-evaluation and verification
• Continue self-evaluation
• Agree on TS 26.533 v1.0.0 to be sent to SA plenary for information

Ad-hoc telco post-137e

• Submission of self-evaluation and optional cross-evaluation reports
• Begin specification of suitable example solution(s)

SA4#138 Calgary

• Complete specification of suitable example solution(s)
• Agree on TS 26.533 v2.0.0 to be sent to SA plenary for approval

Conclusion

The proposed timeline in Table 1 is recommended for agreement. This schedule allows sufficient time to:
- Complete pending tasks
- Reach necessary agreements before example solution submission
- Conduct both self-evaluation and optional cross-evaluation
- Progress from draft specification (v1.0.0 for information) to final specification (v2.0.0 for approval)

While certain aspects may be influenced by outcomes of upcoming meetings, all necessary progress should be achievable within the proposed schedule.