The process of increasing the resolution of a video from 480p (854×480 pixels) to 1080p (1920×1080 pixels) involves a technique known as upscaling. Upscaling attempts to fill in the missing pixel data to create a larger, higher-resolution image. For instance, a video editing software might analyze adjacent pixels in the 480p video and interpolate values to generate new pixels, effectively increasing the resolution. The final result aims to approximate the visual quality of a video originally recorded in 1080p.
The principal benefit of this resolution enhancement is improved viewing experience, especially on larger screens. While a 480p video might appear acceptable on a small mobile device, it can exhibit pixelation and blurriness when viewed on a larger monitor or television. Increasing the resolution can reduce these artifacts, leading to a sharper, more detailed image. Historically, upscaling was primarily used to make older, lower-resolution content compatible with newer, high-definition displays. Its continued relevance stems from the vast archive of standard-definition video content and the increasing prevalence of 1080p and higher resolution displays.
