This incredibly easy solution can reduce the frustration of buffering when streaming videos online.
A study indicates that minor adjustments to playback can diminish video buffering
Buffering may be the most frustrating aspect of streaming, but recent research implies that the solution could be quite straightforward. Instead of halting your video to buffer, streaming services could slightly reduce the playback speed, allowing for a smoother experience without noticeable interruptions.
Researchers from Lancaster University discovered that viewers favor small modifications in playback speed over interruptions. When a video stops to buffer, it is due to the player running out of data. By reducing the playback speed, there is more time for the data to load, thus preventing that jarring stop.
Can a slower video feel better than buffering?
Digital Trends
The study revealed that minor declines in video quality are frequently less perceptible than buffering. Combining small adjustments in quality and speed could further diminish interruptions.
The research identified an optimal point where reducing playback speed to 90% is hardly detectable. In many instances, even 80% speed went unnoticed, depending on the type of content. However, reducing it to 70% begins to become distracting.
Viewers were also comfortable with playback speeds of up to 30% faster. This is beneficial for live streams, such as sports broadcasts, as it helps keep the content close to real-time by adjusting the speed to manage latency.
This also avoids sudden jumps that might cause missed moments such as goals in live games.
How this may alter your viewing experience on streaming services
Andrea Piacquadio / Pexels
These findings stem from various studies involving over 200 participants and numerous test clips across genres, including sports, drama, and gaming. The objective was to pinpoint what viewers find most bothersome.
The outcome is evident. Viewers would prefer a slightly modified video over constant interruptions from buffering.
This could lead to changes in the design of streaming platforms. Rather than freezing playback, future players might subtly adjust speed and quality in the background to maintain smooth playback.
Additionally, research has shown that when apps load either too quickly or too slowly, it can feel like a longer wait, while a moderate speed can make the loading experience feel swifter.
If commonly implemented, this strategy could finally make buffering seem like a relic of the past, or at least something you hardly notice any longer.
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This incredibly easy solution can reduce the frustration of buffering when streaming videos online.
Rather than freezing to buffer, videos could run at a slightly slower pace without being noticeable, as research indicates that this method provides a smoother and less frustrating experience for the majority of viewers.