Netflix has agreed to limit the streaming quality for European users during the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. Due to the spread of coronavirus, people are being advised to stay home as much as possible and practice social distancing to help "flatten the curve" when it comes to the number of cases around the world. Movie theaters across the globe, as well as restaurants, schools, and some offices, have closed in order to keep people safe and prevent further spread of the virus. Since people are stuck inside their homes with little to do, many are turning to streaming services to help fill their time.
On Wednesday, the European Union's Internal Market and Services Commissioner Thierry Breton called Netflix CEO Reed Hastings and requested that Netflix reduce the streaming quality made available for European users to prevent additional strain on communications networks. With more people at home than ever before, internet usage is expected to go way up as people work from home, stream movies and television shows, and video chat with those they cannot visit in person. Breton was concerned about the effect the increased demand would have on networks as the outbreak continues and more countries are put on lockdown.
Today, Netflix announced it would be following through with Breton's request (via Deadline), which was for Netflix to only offer standard definition to European users. As of right now, this measure is only for those in Europe, and it's unclear if it will ever apply to other territories. Netflix looks to implement this for the next 3o days. A Netflix spokesperson gave this statement: "We estimate that this will reduce Netflix traffic on European networks by around 25% while also ensuring a good quality service for our members."
From a production standpoint, Netflix is perhaps the streaming service most affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Last week, the streaming giant shut down all of its ongoing productions in the US and Canada over concerns regarding the coronavirus outbreak. This includes the fourth season of Stranger Things, plus several other shows. Not long after, The Witcher's production (which films in the UK) was also announced to be delayed. Some productions hope to resume within two weeks, but it's unclear if that will really be possible.
While standard definition isn't the preferred way of viewing things, it's good of Netflix to be responsible in this situation and help communications networks. With so many people relying on a steady internet connection right now, it would be devastating to have those networks struggle and possibly go down. As of right now, digital infrastructure is reportedly holding up in Europe despite increases in traffic, and hopefully Netflix's new measure will help ensure it stays that way.
Source: Deadline