YouTube has formally announced that it will re-encode most of the videos in their database to a higher definition quality. By changing the settings in your account in YouTube, you can watch the high- def videos automatically.
In the past, even if the user uploaded high definition videos to YouTube, the clips were converted to standard definition videos so that everyone can see then no matter the speed of their Internet connection. It also made seeing videos in various platforms -- such as the iPhone or other smart phones -- more possible.
Now, YouTube is providing high-definition videos so anyone can see them, especially if they have faster broadband connection. For others, the standard definition videos will be still available.
YouTube explained the transition in its
blog:
"You may have noticed that we're now giving you the option of watching some YouTube videos in higher quality. We're making these streams available on certain videos, based upon the source file uploaded to us, and over time you'll find a greater percentage of the library is available to view in higher quality."
Several weeks ago, we learned
how to see the videos in high definition by appending &fmt=18 or &fmt=6 to a YouTube URL. Now we don’t have to add this “&fmt=6” to see a high-definition video every time; YouTube has made it convenient for us by updating our account as follows:
1. Log on to your Youtube account
2. Click “My Account” --> “Video Playback Quality”
3. In “Video Playback Quality”, choose the third option,
"I have a fast connection. Always play higher-quality video when it's available." shown in the picture below.
4. Click “save settings”.
The new saved setting is equivalent to appending &fmt=6 to the URL and you get 448 x 336 resolution FLV1 videos with audio encoded at a sample rate of 44100 Hz, up from 320 x 240 resolution FLV1 videos with audio encoded at 22050 Hz.
Now users can upload all their high-definition videos and YouTube will maintain its quality so everyone can enjoy great videos.
Change the settings in your YouTube account and try to see the with the above HBO video “The Wire." You will notice the difference.
