December 17, 2009

Exploring YouTube's HD format

Jan Ozer's Streaming Learning Center has numerous tips for improving streaming video quality. Among the tips are details on options for uploading SD video to YouTube and exploring YouTube's HD format.

He summarizes his experience with YouTube HD:
  • YouTube appears to encode all 1080 files uploaded to the site into 1080p format.
  • The file is produced using the H.264 codec at about 3.5 mbps, in the High profile with CABAC enabled, but no B-frames. YouTube also creates at least two other formats for lower resolution playback.
  • The most reliable way to play the 1080p file is to click the full screen option in the YouTube player.
Update: Ozer has some additional observations in an update, YouTube's "New" HD Formats.

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