3 Minutes
YouTube is rolling out a suite of TV-focused upgrades, starting with automatic AI upscaling for videos below 1080p. The move targets living-room viewing and promises sharper playback, bigger thumbnails and smarter search on TVs.
AI upscaling: SD to HD today, 4K coming soon
Starting now, YouTube will automatically apply AI-based upscaling to videos that are under 1080p when played on TVs. Initially that means SD clips will be enhanced to HD quality; YouTube says support will roll out toward 4K "in the near future." When the feature is active, viewers will see a "Super resolution" label under the resolution options on their TV. Creators who prefer to keep the original resolution can opt out.
More than pixels: thumbnails, previews and curated shows
The update goes beyond video smoothing. YouTube is increasing the thumbnail file size limit from 2MB to 50MB — a change that paves the way for 4K-resolution thumbnails and more visually striking channel pages on big screens. At the same time, the homepage will support "immersive previews" so you can flip through channel content quickly and visually, and a redesigned Shows layout helps creators arrange videos into binge-ready collections tailored to the living-room experience.
Search and shopping, rethought for the TV
Contextual search is arriving on TV apps: start a search from a channel page and that channel's videos will be prioritized in results, making it easier to find what you were already watching. YouTube will also add QR codes on TV that link directly to product pages on your phone when items are mentioned in videos — a small but useful bridge between passive TV viewing and on-the-go shopping.
- Auto upscaling: Sub-1080p videos enhanced to HD on TVs, with 4K planned.
- Super resolution tag: Visible under resolution options when applied.
- Thumbnails: File limit jumps to 50MB for higher-res artwork.
- Immersive previews & Shows: Easier browsing and binge collections for living rooms.
- Contextual search & QR codes: Channel-first results and phone links for products.
Why TVs? YouTube says the platform's TV surface is its fastest-growing distribution channel, so these enhancements aim to improve discovery, quality and commerce where viewers spend more time watching. Expect the changes to appear gradually on smart TVs and streaming devices as YouTube tests and expands the rollout.
Source: gsmarena
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