Social media platforms Facebook and Instagram are following the example of streaming services (e.g. Netflix ) and are reducing the quality of videos to help the European network not collapse. Most people are now staying at home to reduce the spread of the coronavirus . Due to mass teleworking and the use of the internet for entertainment, the network in Europe has been overloaded.
Last week, Europe asked streaming services to stop streaming HD videos (when not necessary) to keep the internet running smoothly. A Facebook said that both it and Instagram will “temporarily reduce” bit rates in Europe. This will allow people to still access the internet, communicate with others, work, etc.
The decision is not surprising. Of course, video-centric services such as Netflix, Prime Video and YouTube are largely responsible for the network load and for this reason they have been asked to take measures. However, there is also a lot of video on Facebook and Instagram, which are now being used more than usual. In addition, many users are turning to video calls to keep in touch with loved ones who cannot meet due to the circumstances.
Facebook's announcement:
“To help alleviate potential network congestion, we will temporarily reduce the bit rate for videos on Facebook and Instagram in Europe. We are committed to working with our partners to manage bandwidth constraints during this period of high demand, ensuring that users ” stay connected and continue to use apps Facebook during the COVID-19 pandemic.
