What must happen for a device to support H.264 video?

For a device to support H.264 video, it must have the capability to utilize the H.264 codec, which is essential for encoding and decoding video. H.264, also known as AVC (Advanced Video Coding), is a widely used compression standard that allows for high-quality video at lower bit rates. This means that the device's hardware and software must be compatible with this specific codec in order to properly process and play back H.264 video streams.

While other factors like storage capacity or firmware updates can impact performance or enable certain features, they do not directly relate to a device's ability to support the H.264 codec. Additionally, while some devices may function optimally with the latest firmware, support for H.264 specifically hinges on the device's codec compatibility. Hence, having support for required video codecs is the foundational requirement for ensuring that H.264 video can be utilized effectively.