AT&T will limit video streaming to 480p by default starting in 2017

[kate]

Similar to T-Mobile Binge On, AT&T will enable 480p video streaming beginning in a few months.

"AT&T today said it will begin limiting the quality of mobile video for cellular data customers in early 2017. A new feature called "Stream Saver" will throttle video to DVD resolution of about 480p. Customers will be able to opt out of Stream Saver, but it will be enabled by default—even for customers with unlimited data."

More:
http://arstechnica.com/information-...lity-by-default-even-on-unlimited-data-plans/

EDIT: In Feb 2017 the new AT&T Unlimited plan announced does include HD video:
https://www.att.com/shop/wireless/unlimited-plan.html

 

[lunatic59]

I'm sure there are going to be some irate customers, but I wonder just how many people now are streaming 720p 0r 1080p when they wouldn't notice a difference with 480p?

 

[kate]

480p is pretty noticeable on a TV, but yeah, on a 5 inch phone I'd guess it's more mixed when being able to tell.

 

[Oridus]

Why would there be any irate customers? This is an optional feature

 

[lunatic59]

Why would there be any irate customers? This is an optional feature

Because it will be enabled by default and I seriously doubt they are going to explain how to opt out unless asked. Many users will assume it permanent.

 

[eve6er69]

I wonder what providers it will work on.

 

[kate]

I wonder what providers it will work on.

I didn't see a list, but they say any data it identifies as video:
https://www.att.com/offers/streamsaver.html

Also, the new AT&T Unlimited plan recently announced does include HD video:
https://www.att.com/shop/wireless/unlimited-plan.html

 

[dan330]

Because it will be enabled by default and I seriously doubt they are going to explain how to opt out unless asked. Many users will assume it permanent.

i really dont mind this... because on a less than 6 inch screen... will it really matter????

when i do watch video on my phone... i dont want it to eat up data for a little itsy bitsy more clarity that i am not even sure i would notice.

and for those that it does matter...
i think they will go to trouble to find the switch in settings to turn it off.