Your YouTube video quality is taking a hit, thanks to coronavirus lockdowns

YouTube is reducing its video quality for 30 days to deal with traffic during the coronavirus outbreak, media outlets reported.

Starting March 24, YouTube videos will first be displayed in standard definition and users can still see it in high definition, but will have to pick that option, Bloomberg reported. Streaming services have spiked in recent weeks as people stay home to stop the spread of the virus, the outlet reported.

Reducing the video quality is Google’s way to “do our part to minimize stress on the system during this unprecedented situation,” according to a statement provided to USA Today.

YouTube usually streams the highest quality video depending on your connection, according to USA Today. That’s typically 1080p high definition or 4K “Ultra High Definition.”

Netflix is also reducing its video quality in Europe, according to CNN.

“We estimate that this will reduce Netflix traffic on European networks by around 25% while also ensuring a good quality service for our members,” a Netflix spokesperson told CNN in a statement.

This story was originally published March 25, 2020 at 2:45 PM with the headline "Your YouTube video quality is taking a hit, thanks to coronavirus lockdowns."