In aspects of the present disclosure, a software encoder augments a hardware encoder by implementing portions of a video encoding task that are not supported by the hardware encoder while the hardware encoder implements other portions of the encoding task. The use of a software encoder to augment a hardware encoder in this manner can extend the useful life of a hardware encoder, allow the system to adapt to changes in video coding standards, and in some cases improve performance of encoding implemented by hardware or software alone. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.