Russian authorities have notified all major telecommunications operators in the country about the slowing down of video playback on YouTube to 128 kilobits per second. This was reported by «Meduza» on August 7, citing a source in the telecommunications market.
According to the source, the decision to slow down the speed of YouTube was made by the Russian government in order to reduce the load on the country’s internet infrastructure. This measure is being implemented in response to the recent increase in internet usage due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting shift to remote work and online education.
The decision has sparked controversy and criticism from both users and experts in the telecommunications industry. Many argue that this move goes against the principles of net neutrality and limits the freedom of access to information. Others point out that this could have a negative impact on businesses and individuals who rely on YouTube for their work or entertainment.
The Russian government, however, defends its decision, stating that it is necessary to ensure the stability and reliability of the internet during these challenging times. They also assure that this measure is temporary and will be lifted once the situation improves.
The slowdown of YouTube has already been implemented by major telecommunications operators such as MTS, Megafon, and Beeline. Users have reported experiencing difficulties in streaming videos and longer loading times. Some have also noticed a decrease in video quality.
This move by the Russian government has also raised concerns about the future of internet freedom in the country. Critics fear that this could be a step towards increased censorship and control over online content.
In response to these concerns, the Russian Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media has stated that they have no intention of restricting access to any specific websites or services. They also emphasize that this measure is solely aimed at reducing the strain on the internet infrastructure.
Meanwhile, YouTube has not yet commented on the situation. However, the company has previously expressed its commitment to providing high-quality services to its users and ensuring their access to information.
The decision to slow down YouTube has also sparked discussions about the need for alternative platforms and the importance of supporting local content creators. Some have suggested using Russian video hosting services, while others have called for the development of new platforms that are not dependent on foreign companies.
Despite the controversy surrounding this decision, it is important to note that the Russian government’s main goal is to ensure the stability and reliability of the internet during these challenging times. The COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on internet infrastructure worldwide, and governments are taking measures to manage the increased demand.
In conclusion, the decision to slow down YouTube in Russia has caused a stir among users and experts. While some argue that it goes against the principles of net neutrality, others see it as a necessary measure to ensure the stability of the internet. Only time will tell how this decision will affect internet freedom in the country, but for now, it is important to support local content creators and explore alternative platforms.
