As we reported yesterday, Europe had asked Netflix and other streaming services to ban the viewing of HD videos, where it is not necessary, so as not to collapse the network. During this time, there is a high network, due to the massive teleworking and the quarantine imposed by the coronavirus.
Netflix has agreed to reduce streaming quality across Europeto keep the internet running smoothly during the coronavirus. The move comes after talks between Netflix CEO Reed Hastingsand European Commissioner Thierry Breton.
“Following discussions between Commissioner Thierry Breton and Reed Hastings, and taking into account the exceptional challenges posed by the coronavirus, Netflix has decided to begin reducing the bit rate on all streams in Europefor 30 days,” a Netflix spokesperson said. “We estimate that this will reduce Netflix trafficon European networksby approximately 25%, while ensuring a good quality of service for our members.”
A Netflix spokesperson said that the bit rate reduction may affect service quality for some customers. Others, however, may not notice the difference.
Quality can depend on a number of factors, including the device being used and the service plan. Users who will see the biggest difference are those with the Ultra High Definition package. However, they are not the majority.
Even before the agreement with Europe, Netflix had begun adjusting the quality of streams based on available network capacity.
Commissioner Breton had said in a tweet: “To ensure Internet for all, let's #SwitchToStandard when HD is not necessary.”
Internet measurements have shown that there is increased traffic on all services due to coronavirus. However, reports indicate that there have been no significant problems so far and that the network is responding effectively to the increased demand.
