Last week we heard that both Netflix and YouTube had reduced streaming quality in Europe in order to ease the pressure on ISPs due to the increased demand because of the virus outbreak. Apple has now followed suit with Apple TV+.
Impact on Streaming Quality
Apple TV+ content is normally available in 4K and HD formats, providing viewers with high-quality streaming experiences. However, according to 9 to 5 Mac, the quality has now been reduced to as low as 670 pixels tall, and the streams are heavily compressed. This reduction in quality is a significant change from the usual high-definition content that Apple TV+ subscribers are accustomed to.
Some users are reporting that this reduction in quality is particularly noticeable, especially on larger TVs over 40 inches in size. The difference in quality is considerably more apparent on these larger screens, where the lower resolution and increased compression can lead to a less satisfying viewing experience. This is a stark contrast to the crisp and clear visuals that Apple normally streams, which has been one of the selling points for Apple TV+.
Reasons for Quality Reduction
The primary reason for this reduction in streaming quality is the increased demand for streaming services due to the various lockdowns and stay-at-home orders implemented around the world. With more people staying at home, the demand for online entertainment has surged, putting additional pressure on Internet Service Providers (ISPs). By reducing the streaming quality, companies like Apple, Netflix, and YouTube aim to ease this pressure and ensure that everyone can stay connected during this challenging time.
In the UK, the pressure on the internet is expected to increase even further as all schools have now closed. This means that not only are more people working from home, but children and students are also relying on the internet for online learning and entertainment. The combined demand from work, education, and entertainment can strain the network infrastructure, making it crucial for ISPs to manage the load effectively.
Reducing streaming quality is one way to help manage this increased demand. By lowering the resolution and compressing the streams, the amount of data being transmitted is reduced, which can help prevent network congestion and ensure a more stable internet connection for everyone.
Broader Implications and Future Considerations
While the reduction in streaming quality may be a temporary measure, it raises important questions about the future of internet infrastructure and the ability of ISPs to handle sudden surges in demand. The current situation highlights the need for robust and scalable network infrastructure that can adapt to changing usage patterns and ensure reliable connectivity for all users.
In the long term, this may lead to increased investment in network infrastructure and technology to improve capacity and resilience. Additionally, it may prompt streaming services to explore more efficient ways to deliver high-quality content without putting excessive strain on the network.
For now, viewers may need to adjust their expectations and be understanding of the temporary reduction in streaming quality. The goal is to ensure that everyone can stay connected and access the information and entertainment they need during this unprecedented time.
Source 9 to 5 Mac
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
