YouTube Boosts Smart TV Experience with AI-Powered HD Upscaling & New Features
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA – October 26, 2023 – YouTube is doubling down on its Smart TV presence with a suite of new features designed to improve visual quality and content discovery, signaling a strategic shift to compete with customary streaming services. the move comes as YouTube navigates challenges in retaining mobile users, who increasingly favor short-form video platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
The centerpiece of the update is an AI-powered HD conversion tool that upscales videos below 1080p (including 240p and 480p content) to a sharper resolution. YouTube is also increasing the maximum thumbnail file size to 50 MB (from 2 MB), allowing for 4K-compatible images that will appear clearer on larger screens.
Further enhancements include a redesigned interface intended to highlight smaller channels and a QR code scanning feature for easier access to links from the TV.
According to reporting from Écran Large, YouTube’s focus on Smart TVs is driven by increasing viewership and strong profitability on the platform. The company is also reportedly exploring 4K mode improvements and refining its algorithms to streamline navigation and content discovery.
While the AI upscaling promises visual improvements, concerns remain about potential limitations - such as the “Soap Opera effect” – and the potential for increased advertising within the platform.
