As the situation surrounding the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic continues to evolve, many around the world are now spending much more time at home whether they're working or simply self-distancing from others. As such, lots of users are streaming video from home to pass the time.

That much streaming video could, potentially, overload internet bandwidth. In an attempt to curb that before it becomes an issue, the European Union commissioner for internal market Thierry Breton revealed he spoke with Netflix CEO Reed Hastings, asking for the streaming to downgrade video quality to standard definition when "HD is not necessary."

In a tweet, Breton wrote, "Important phone conversation with [Reed Hastings], CEO of [Netflix.] To beat [COVID-19], we [stay at home.] Teleworking & streaming help a lot but infrastructures might be in strain. To secure Internet access for all, let’s [switch to standard] definition when HD is not necessary."