a novel initiative aimed at enhancing overall video quality throughout the platform. The streaming leader unveiled a groundbreaking feature that will utilize AI technology to upgrade low-resolution videos to 1080p HD. In the future, it will eventually elevate content to 4K. YouTube emphasizes that “creators will maintain full control over their library.” This indicates that users will continue to have authority over their original files and that the source video won’t be replaced with a higher resolution version. In essence, creators wishing to experiment with Google’s innovative AI tools don’t have to be concerned about losing access to their original videos.
Per YouTube’s announcement, the AI upscaling feature will be turned on by default. Users who prefer not to upscale their content can choose to opt out. YouTube also states that it will inform viewers when they are viewing an AI upscaled video. These videos will bear the label “super resolution.” Users wishing to avoid AI enhancements will still have the option to watch videos in their original resolution.
YouTube has been operational for twenty years, and often, one can identify when a video was uploaded simply by its quality. Although most content today is uploaded in sharp HD, the entire YouTube library is filled with videos recorded on outdated camera phones, early smartphones, camcorders, and various obsolete video recording equipment. It remains uncertain if YouTube will offer AI upscaling for these older videos. While there is merit in appreciating a video at its original resolution, the opportunity to view early 1980s NBA footage in HD would certainly be an appreciated advantage.
