When watching videos on YouTube, users can usually experience some of the most cutting-edge content delivery on the internet, but for an unusual celebratory feature, there is now also the option of downgrading the offering a little.
Strangely marking the 57th anniversary of the first-ever commercial VHS (Video Home System) cassette recorder (the 1956-released Ampex VRX-1000), the site now includes a ‘VHS mode’ on many selected YouTube videos.
While it is unknown if it is a permanent mainstay for the video toolbar (and if a temporary one, how long it will last), the idea of the feature is to offer a nostalgic throwback to the video format, with a turned-on version of the button enabling filters that add ‘fuzz’ and ‘static effects’ to the more modern videos.
A YouTube blog post explaining the move read: “Not too long ago, the video tape was the media of choice for living rooms around the world. In celebration of the 57th birthday of the first commercial video cassette recorder, check out a fun VHS mode for the YouTube player to relive the magic feel of vintage video tapes. On select videos, you’ll find a VHS button in the bottom right of the player–just click to turn back the clock and enjoy the static and fuzzy motion of the VHS era.”
With plenty of nostalgia on offer with the alteration, there will be plenty of dated movies on the site that when viewed will provide an extra sentimental buzz (possibly literally sound-wise), or you can just use the VHS feature to create an unusual effect on something a little newer that has never seen a home media release…
