YouTube Goes Widescreen and HD

What's better than YouTube? You Tube in wide-screen of course! YouTube's Google Video-ization continues by using more space for the player and less space for the sidebar. YouTube changed the aspect ratio from 4:3 to 16:9, generally used for high-definition TV. Since the videos aren't yet converted to a widescreen format, you'll see an annoying pillar box effect.

"The pillar box effect occurs in wide screen video displays when black bars (mattes or masking) are placed on the sides of the image. It becomes necessary when film or video that was not originally designed for wide screen is shown on a wide screen display, or a narrower wide screen image is displayed within a wider aspect ratio."

You will also find links under most videos where you can switch to "High Quality" this brings you HD video for the best viewing experience.