Not long after the rollout of 60FPS support for video playback, Google has implemented a new YouTube feature that allows users to livestream content at 60FPS.
For now, the functionality is only available to those using browsers compatible with HTML5, though the company has noted that the option to stream at the high framerate will be available to all before long. Working closely with the likes of Elgato and XSplit – big names in the video game streaming market – the Google-owned giant has ensured that 60FPS will soon become the go-to standard, and it’s a move that will no doubt amplify the service’s competition with Twitch.
Per GameSpot:
When you start a live stream on YouTube at 60fps, we’ll transcode your stream into 720p60 and 1080p60, which means silky smooth playback for gaming and other fast-action videos. We’ll also make your stream available in 30fps on devices where high frame rate viewing is not yet available, while we work to expand support in the coming weeks.
In addition to this, another much-requested feature is making its way across YouTube in the form of HTML5 playback, meaning you can rewind any given livestream as you see fit.
As of this week, YouTube live streams will use an HTML5 player in supported browsers. And because our HTML5 player supports variable speed playback, you can skip backward in a stream while it’s live and watch at 1.5x or 2x speed to catch back up.
Today’s announcement only exemplifies the demand for a quality streaming service in the video game space. Over the year, Twitch has been the go-to platform for streaming content, but with Google adding 60FPS support for YouTube, it’s clear that the online giant is looking to strengthen its presence in the online field.
Your move, Twitch.
