Netflix and chill just got a bit more complicated in Europe. The streaming platform is reducing streaming quality in Europe for at least the next month.
This is a preventative measure to help the internet from collapsing under over-usage due to the coronavirus pandemic. In fact, both Netflix and YouTube will be taking action with the preventative measures. Netflix explained:
We estimate that this will reduce Netflix traffic on European networks by around 25% while also ensuring a good quality service for our members.
and YouTube:
We will continue working with member state governments and network operators to minimize stress on the system, while also delivering a good user experience.
These decisions come after EU industry chief Thierry Breton called on streaming platforms to help reduce internet traffic. There are fears about the strain all of these individuals might have on the internet infrastructure. The greater impacts of issues with the internet in Europe could be catastrophic, and this certainly is the last thing their energy should be focused on.
With parents working from home and children e-learning, the amount of people streaming will rise during this time. This is a crucial moment for these streaming giants to be cautious. Individuals all over Europe are in self-quarantine, and who knows for how long. Questions are even being raised if these streaming measures will be taken in America.
