Source: Jason England / Android Central
What you need to know
- YouTube has become the second company after Netflix to reduce streaming quality in the European Union to lessen the strain on the internet amid coronavirus spread.
- Several European telecom providers, including Vodafone and Deutsche Telekom have reported a spike in internet traffic in recent days.
- All traffic in the EU is being switched to standard definition by default.
With an aim to lessen the strain on the internet amid the coronavirus pandemic, Netflix announced yesterday that it will be throttling streaming across Europe for 30 days. As per a report from Reuters, YouTube has also decided to switch all traffic in the EU to standard definition by default.
The move comes after EU industry chief Thierry Breton urged all leading streaming platforms to switch to standard definition to help lower the strain on the internet during the COVID-19 crisis. Breton reportedly spoke to both Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai and YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki regarding the matter.
Earlier this week, leading European telecom provider Vodafone reported a 50% spike in internet traffic in some countries as a large number of people started working from home. A similar trend was also observed by Deutsche Telekom in recent days. With no let-up in the spread of the novel coronavirus in Europe, the trend of data growth in the old continent is expected to continue.
Along with reducing streaming quality in Europe, YouTube has launched a COVID-19 news shelf on its homepage. The dedicated hub will provide users access to authoritative COVID-19 content. While it is currently available only in 16 countries, YouTube says the dedicated COVID-19 hub will soon be made available in more countries.
How Google can fill the Android enthusiast void left by OnePlus
WIth OnePlus going through some rocky times, Google is poised to make a big splash with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. However, there's a lot more going on here than just Google trying to become a player in the flagship market. Android enthusiasts are looking for a new phone, and Google's lineup could just fit the bill.
Jabra Elite 3 review: Keeping the basics intact for less
Jabra brings its ability to make good earbuds into budget territory with the Elite 3, as it tries staking a claim to stand out in a crowded field.
You can buy new Fossil Gen 6 watches now, Michael Kors models on the way
Fossil has announced new Gen 6 Wear OS smartwatches powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon Wear 4100+ platform.
Here are 9 cheap office desks to complete your home office
Working from home? Whatever your reasons may be, these cheap office desks will ensure you have the best experience possible.