Netflix to reduce bit rates to avoid clogging of European networks

“Following the discussions between Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton and Netflix CEO Reed Hastings — and given the extraordinary challenges raised by the coronavirus — Netflix has decided to begin reducing bit rates across all our streams in Europe for 30 days,” the company said in a statement.

Internet activity has spiked across Europe as governments put their citizens on lockdown and companies encourage people to work from home to curb the spread of coronavirus. Earlier this week, Thierry Breton spoke with Reed Hastings to discuss options.

“We estimate that this will reduce Netflix traffic on European networks by around 25 percent while also ensuring a good quality service for our members,” the company added.

Breton welcomed the streaming platform’s move.

“Mr Hastings has demonstrated a strong sense of responsibility and solidarity. We’ll keep closely in touch to follow the evolution of the situation together,” he said.

via POLITICO 

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