Google is rolling out a major artificial intelligence update for YouTube that promises to dramatically enhance the clarity of low-resolution videos — whether you’re watching on a TV, computer, or smartphone.
According to a recent blog post by Kurt Wilms, YouTube’s Senior Product Director, the new AI-powered “upscaling” technology will first apply to videos originally uploaded below 1080p resolution. In time, YouTube plans to extend this capability to boost playback quality up to 4K resolution, making even older clips appear noticeably sharper and more vibrant.
A Google spokesperson also confirmed that the feature won’t be limited to TV screens — it will be available across YouTube’s web and mobile platforms as well.
Original Content Remains Safe
While some creators might be wary about YouTube altering their uploads, Wilms clarified that the original video files will remain untouched. The new “super resolution” feature will only affect playback visuals, not the source material.
For those who prefer their videos unaltered, YouTube will allow users to opt out of AI upscaling at any time. Additionally, videos enhanced through this feature will be clearly labeled as “Super Resolution”, giving viewers the option to watch either the enhanced or original version.
Boosting Clarity on Bigger Screens
Wilms explained that the move to AI upscaling aims to improve the viewing experience — especially for users watching on large-screen TVs, which he described as YouTube’s “fastest-growing surface.”
However, this upgrade isn’t limited to TVs. The AI enhancement should also make older or lower-quality videos look crisper on larger smartphones and foldable devices, where screen size can exaggerate pixelation or blurriness.
Breathing New Life Into Older Content
While most modern creators upload videos in 4K, YouTube’s archives are filled with millions of older clips that were posted long before ultra-high-definition (UHD) became standard. Many of these legacy videos top out at 480p (standard definition) or even lower.
AI upscaling will allow these older videos to appear closer in quality to modern uploads, effectively revitalizing YouTube’s vast back catalog and improving the user experience for casual viewers and nostalgic fans alike.
Bigger, Sharper Thumbnails
Alongside AI upscaling, YouTube is also updating how creators can present their content. The platform has significantly increased the file size limit for thumbnails, allowing uploads of up to 50 MB, a massive jump from the previous 2 MB cap.
This change ensures that thumbnails — particularly on TV screens and higher-resolution devices — look more detailed and visually striking, helping creators attract more clicks and engagement.
Testing Higher-Quality Uploads
Beyond visual improvements for existing videos, YouTube is actively testing larger video uploads with select creators. Wilms mentioned that this initiative could lead to even greater image fidelity, positioning YouTube to better compete with Netflix, Disney+, and other premium streaming platforms in terms of picture quality.
Past Experiments with AI Enhancement
This isn’t YouTube’s first experiment with AI-based video enhancement. During the summer, the platform drew criticism after it quietly used machine learning to boost the visual clarity of YouTube Shorts — its short-form video format designed to rival TikTok and Instagram Reels.
At that time, the company clarified on social media that the enhancements were not true upscaling, but rather internal tests aimed at improving image quality.
Conclusion
YouTube’s introduction of AI-powered upscaling marks another major step toward blending traditional video sharing with modern streaming technology.
By combining artificial intelligence with playback optimization, YouTube aims to make older, low-resolution content look better than ever, while also preparing for a future of 4K and beyond.
For creators, these updates open new opportunities — from richer thumbnails to higher-quality uploads — all designed to make YouTube videos look their absolute best on any screen size.
Ayush Kumar Jaiswal is a writer and contributor for MakingIndiaAIFirst.com, a platform dedicated to covering the latest developments, trends, and innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) with a specific focus on India’s role in the global AI landscape. His work primarily revolves around delivering insightful and up-to-date news, analysis, and commentary on AI advancements, policies, and their implications for India’s technological future.
As a tech enthusiast and AI advocate, Ayush is passionate about exploring how AI can transform industries, governance, and everyday life. His writing aims to bridge the gap between complex AI concepts and a broader audience, making AI accessible and understandable to readers from diverse backgrounds.
Through his contributions to MakingIndiaAIFirst.com, Ayush strives to highlight India’s progress in AI research, startups, and policy frameworks, positioning the country as a leader in the global AI race. His work reflects a commitment to fostering awareness and dialogue around AI’s potential to drive economic growth, innovation, and societal impact in India.
For more of his work and insights on AI, visit MakingIndiaAIFirst.com.
