S(ucky) D(efinition).
It seems that the tax of social distancing on our networks is a concern. As such, Google has stated that for the next 30 days, all YouTube videos will default to standard definition. Previously, this was to be restricted to the EU, but Google has since expanded it worldwide.
Per a spokesperson, Google stated the following:
We continue to work closely with governments and network operators around the globe to do our part to minimize stress on the system during this unprecedented situation. Last week, we announced that we were temporarily defaulting all videos on YouTube to standard definition in the EU. Given the global nature of this crisis, we will expand that change globally starting today.
The change will currently only last for 30 days. That said, you’ll still be able to turn up the resolution manually.
YouTube isn’t the only one. Sony has stated that they’ll slow downloads from PSN in the EU to reduce some of the strain. Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Netflix hae made similar promises vis a vis bitrate.
Source: IGN
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