Your Netflix Video Streaming Is About to Get Even Better

Netflix should maybe change its name to Santa, because they just keep dishing out the gifts this year! First, they announced that they plan on doubling up on their ah-mazing Netflix original programming for next year. Now they have news that will not only up your Internet speeds, but also the video quality on your next TV binge as well.

Netflix has something up their sleeves — the video streaming company has been pioneering a bandwidth-saving technology for over four years now, and they’re getting ready to reveal it to the world. According to Variety, not only will the tech save your Internet data by up to 20 percent (giving you more speed to listen to your fave new Pandora channel or play some more of your fave mobile games, perhaps?), but the video quality will also be kicked up a notch.

Previously, Netflix’s policy on video quality had only been based on the consumer’s Internet capabilities. What that means is, depending on if you have super slow DSL or hyper speed fiber, Netflix’s algorithms would determine what type of resolution you got — from the speeds of a bitrate of 235 kbps for 320 by 240 pixel resolution to 5800 kbps for 1080 pixel resolution. In other words, they had a wide range.

The only problem, though, is not all content deserves equal quality. “You shouldn’t allocate the same amount of bits for My Little Pony as for The Avengers,” Netflix video algorithms manager Anne Aaron told Variety. And so they’ve been working on a new product that uses a different algorithm to determine how many bits different content requires — sometimes even from episode to episode within the same TV show — but it’s tedious work. Netflix essentially has to reprogram their entire catalogue to follow these new rules.

Thank for putting in the extra work, Netflix. We’ll be sitting here playing Shooty Skies in the meantime.

Are you excited about Netflix’s change? Tweet us @BritandCo!

(h/t Variety, photo via Netflix)

Over the past several years, climate change has become an increasingly prevalent and unavoidable issuein our everyday lives. As a growing number of people take the threat of global disaster seriously, we're turning to written reports, expert opinions, and heavily researched documentaries to not only help make sense of where we stand, but also to learn how we can help change course. In honor of Earth Day, here are a few of the most eye-opening environmental documentaries you can stream right now.

Environmental Documentaries To Watch For Earth Day 2024

Image via PBS Digital Studios

Animal IQ (2021): Featuring elephants, foxes, otters, and more, this new series from PBS Digital Studios and Nature takes a look at the intelligence of Earth's animals with a new episode every three weeks. In each installment, Trace Dominguez and Natalia Borrego talk to experts and conduct research to determine how and if animals can actually think.

Image via Gisle Sverdrup/Silverback/Netflix

Our Planet(2019): Unlike the BBC's beloved Planet Earth and Blue Planet series, Our Planet focuses directly on how each ecosystem featured is currently being threatened by climate change. One scene in particular has caused an appropriately dramatic reaction: a group of Russian walruses falling down a steep rock cliff to their deaths. Narrator Sir David Attenborough explains that receding ice levels have left fewer places for the animals to gather, highlighting just how devastating the warming of the planet has already become.

Image via Netflix

Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret (2014): Made by the same team who brought us 2017's controversial What the Health documentary,Cowspiracy is, on its surface, a look at the damaging environmental effects of the livestock industry. Like What the Health, much of the information is presented from a very pro-vegan perspective, and not a lot of balanced reporting is offered. Still, it can serve as a starting point to learn about how meat production uses more resources and contributes more to global greenhouse gas emissions than, say, a plant-based diet, and that may help us make more informed food choices.

Image via Netflix

Chasing Coral (2017): Coral reefs not only serve as a nurturing and essential environment to all ocean life, but also help protect coastlines from flooding during extreme weather events. Unfortunately, due to warming sea temperatures, overfishing, pollution, and other human activities, their vivid, beautiful ecosystems are facing rapid decline. Chasing Coral attempts to document this "coral bleaching" and the devastating economic and environmental effects it could have — as well as the wider problems it may represent. (photo via Netflix)

Image via Tiberius Film/Sunfilm Entertainment

The Milk System(2017): Milk has always represented health, nutrients, and strong bones but The Milk System dives into how the system in question really operates. Speaking with farmers, dairy owners, scientists, and more, this Earth Day documentary examines the profits, responsibilities, and costs of this billion dollar industry.

Image via Pastic Oceans

A Plastic Ocean(2016): In the face of realizing its irreversible environmental effects, the world is slowly moving toward banning many single-use plastics. A Plastic Ocean starts out as a documentary on blue whales but quickly turns into a study on the devastating effects that plastic pollution has had in the lives of ocean animals, from the whales, to dolphins, to seals, and more. It's an eye-opening look at what our plastic use is doing to these creatures, and to the state of much of our own food supplies.

Image via Netflix

Kiss the Ground (2020): This full-length documentary, narrated by Woody Harrelson, looks at the way regenerative agriculture (which focuses on topsoil regeneration) has the potential to feed the world, replenish water supplies, and even balance our climate. Activists, scientists, farmers and politicians take part in this move towards saving the planet's topsoil.

What Earth Day environmental documentaries are you streaming this month? Tag us on Instagram and check out our Earth Day page for more inspo!

Lead image via Gisle Sverdrup/Silverback/Netflix

This post has been updated.

If you're a Taylor Swift fan, then you probably know about Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian's history. What started as Kanye West interrupting Taylor's acceptance speech at the 2009 VMAs — a moment that altered the course of pop culture history — spiraled into a very public feud that gave us Reputation and always seems to reappear in a new form. And after the release of The Tortured Poets Department, Swifties think we've got another piece of the puzzle with Taylor's new song "thanK you aIMee."

In true Taylor fashion, the popstar actually hinted at the song in October 2023 when she wore a $24 clip from Anthropologie called the "Aimee" clip! She loves to add all kinds of clues and references within her outfits, and I love that this one is so affordable. Here's everything you need to know. Don't forget to check out Every Pop Culture Reference In Taylor Swift's The Tortured Poets Department.

Is "thanK you aIMee" actually about Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian?

Image via Big Machine Records/YouTube

There is plenty of evidence suggesting "thanK you aIMee" is about Kim Kardashian & Taylor Swift. The first and most obvious is that the title of the song only has three letters capitalized: "KIM." The song talks about "Aimee" (who Taylor admits actually has a different name in real life), a bully figure who beats Taylor's spirit "black and blue."

In the summer of 2016, Kanye West (Kim's husband at the time) released his song "Famous," in which he takes total credit for Taylor's fame following the 2009 VMAs incident. Taylor claimed she never gave him permission to call her a bitch in the song, a video leak from Kim seemed to show the opposite (the video turned out to be edited). At the time, Kim even told GQ that “[Taylor] totally knew that that was coming out. She wanted to all of a sudden act like she didn’t.”

#TaylorSwiftIsOverParty started trending on Twitter, Taylor Swift deleted all social media and stopped doing interviews for three years, then returned with a vengeance on the "Look What You Made Me Do" music video in 2017. The video starts off with a zombie Taylor burying the "nicer" version of herself.

Taylor Swift's "thanK you aIMee" mentions "It wasn't a fair fight or a clean kill // Each time that Aimee stomped across my gravе // And then she wrote hеadlines // In the local paper, laughing at each baby step I'd take." If you ask me, it definitely sounds like a reference to the music video and maybe even Kim's interviews.

Why does "thanK you aIMee" have random capital letters?

Image via Monica Schipper/Getty Images

Taylor Swift loves hiding clues in her titles, lyrics, and messages. And historically, she's hidden words by using random capital letters. That means "thanK you aIMee" is supposed to draw our eyes to "KIM."

The Lyrics To "thanK you aIMee"

Image via Larry Busacca/Getty Images for NARAS

Verse 1: When I picture my hometown // There's a bronze spray-tanned statue of you // And a plaque underneath it // That threatens to push me down the stairs at our school

Pre-Chorus: And it was always the same searing pain // But I dreamed that, one day, I could say

Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, I was buildin' somethin' // And I can't forgive the way you made me feel // Screamed, "F*ck you, Aimee" to the night sky as the blood was gushin' // But I can't forget the way you made me heal

Verse 2: And it wasn't a fair fight or a clean kill // Each time that Aimee stomped across my gravе // And then she wrote hеadlines // In the local paper, laughing at each baby step I'd take

Pre-Chorus: And it was always the same searing pain // But I prayed that, one day, I could say

Image via Christopher Polk/Getty Images

Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, I was buildin' somethin' // And I couldn't wait to show you it was real // Screamed, "F*ck you, Aimee" to the night sky as the blood was gushin' // But I can't forget the way you made me heal // Everyone knows that my mother is a saintly woman // But she used to say she wished that you were dead // I pushed each boulder up the hill // Your words are still just ringing in my head, ringing in my head

Verse 3: I wrote a thousand songs that you find uncool // I built a legacy, which you can't undo // But when I count the scars, there's a moment of truth // That there wouldn't be this if there hadn't been you

Bridge: And maybe you've reframed it // And in your mind, you never beat my spirit black and blue // I don't think you've changed much // And so I changed your name and any real defining clues // And one day, your kid comes home singin' // A song that only us two is gonna know is about you, 'cause

Image via Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

Chorus: All that time you were throwin' punches, it was all for nothin' // And our town, it looks so small from way up here // Screamed, "Thank you, Aimee" to the night sky and the stars are stunnin' // 'Cause I can't forget the way you made me heal // Everyone knows that my mother is a saintly woman // But she used to say she wished that you were dead // So I pushed each boulder up that hill // Your words were still just ringin' in my head, ringin' in my head

Outro: Thank you, Aimee // Thank you, Aimee

Do you think "thanK you aIMee" is referencing the feud between Taylor Swift & Kim Kardashian? After you listen again, check out All Of Taylor Swift's Albums, Ranked!

Lead images via Dimitrios Kambouris/Monica Schipper/Getty Images

The best things around the holidays are the things that are comforting and familiar. To be surrounded by friends, family, tradition and delicious Thanksgiving appetizers is the best part of the season. So, in the spirit of all things warm and cozy, we rounded up six of the best Thanksgiving TV episodes from our favorite shows. Whether you’re into old-school Full House shenanigans or the modern mishaps of Modern Family, these are the six comfort shows that will make you laugh through all the (inevitable) holiday mishaps this weekend.

1. Full House on Hulu: We look back at season one of Full House with fond memories — mostly for this iconic episode wherein Joey constantly announces the arrival of “the miracle *cue trumpet sound* of Thanksgiving. “It’s not about how good the dinner turns out; it’s the fact that you even tried to roast a turkey.

2. Boy Meets World on Disney+: After learning about tribal prejudice in Africa, Cory and Shawn decide to combine family celebrations of Thanksgiving. The result is a touching but, of course, funny take on how different families celebrate in different ways. Reaching across the table is the new reaching across the aisle.

3. Friends on Max: You didn’t think we’d make it through this list without mentioning this Thanksgiving TV episode, did you? It’s the one where the gang relives terrible Thanksgivings of the past and Monica somehow gets a turkey on her head. Classic.

4. How I Met Your Mother on Hulu: Every year, Thanksgiving is a great opportunity to honor tradition. Our favorite tradition? Slapsgiving from HIMYM. The episode that started it all — and forever struck fear into Barney’s heart — is our favorite Thanksgiving episode from the nine-season run.

5. Modern Family on Hulu: It’s always nice when people pitch in and offer to help, but it can be impossible to know whether or not they’ll follow through. This hysterical holiday episode of Modern Family sees the clan end up *somehow* with three turkeys at the Thanksgiving table. At least there’s plenty of leftovers…

6. Gilmore Girls on Netflix: If you’re overbooked this Thanksgiving, just consider Lorelai and Rory, who celebrated four Thanksgivings in one day. Of course things go wrong, as they do with everybody’s Thanksgiving. It’s probably one of the most relatable episodes around holiday time. (Photo via Warner Bros.)

Any we missed? Let us know your favorite Thanksgiving episodes @BritandCo!

This post has been updated.

Lead image via The CW/The WB

Fans who were left on the edge of their seats after watching the first part of AHS: Delicate last year won't have to wait longer for part two! Emma Roberts and Kim Kardashian are gearing up to pick up where their characters left off, and sinister twists are about to get much darker. While we know the focus revolves around their interactions, we can't wait to see how Gilmore Girls star Matt Czuchry fits into what's sure to be a big reveal.

Read on for a mini recap of part one of AHS: Delicateand learn all the juicy details about part two!

Recap of Kim Kardashian's involvement in AHS: Delicate

Image via FX Networks

Kim Kardashian as 'Siobhan' in "American Horror Story: Delicate"

As good as Kim Kardashian is as the icy publicist Siobhan on AHS: Delicate, don't expect her to watch herself onscreen. She appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live yesterday and explained why she hasn't seen herself in clips of the show when Jimmy Kimmel played and unsettling one.

Her character can be seen intimidating a fertility doctor to do her bidding as she pierces the top of his neck with a long orange fingernail. She smiled before saying "It's so funny, I can't watch it back," and then added, "I get so nervous."

She even talked about the difference between filming for TV and working as an actual actress. She said, "I called my sisters and I go, 'Guys. You — not to say you'd ever want to get into acting — but you are so lucky you can wake up and just, we can sit in bed and film, and you don't have to get up...like there is no schedule."

However, it seems like the budding actress took her new schedule in stride because Star Trek actor and AHS co-star Zachary Quinto applauded Kardashian’s acting chops.

“I did a cameo on this season of ‘American Horror Story’ and I got to meet her,” the actor told People. “She was so lovely and warm and, really, I don’t think she needs my advice.” Quinto added, sharing that Kardashian, was “really in her element” on set and he was “really impressed by her spirit and her openness…I really look forward to seeing this season because I think she’s gonna do a wonderful job.”

Recap of AHS: Delicate Part 1

Image via FX Networks

The first part of AHS: Delicate premiered on FX September 20, 2023 and centered around actress Anna Victoria Alcott's desire to become a mother. Played by Emma Roberts, viewers watched as her husband Dexter Harding (played by Matt Czuchry) was supportive of her IVF procedure so the couple could conceive their first child. Despite the previous struggles, the procedure is a success and the happy couple learn they have a baby on the way.

However, things go horribly wrong when Anna starts being followed and eventually experiences a violent miscarriage during her first trimester. Somehow the baby actually survives, but Anna still experiences a series of strange hallucinations and events. From losing her hair to vomiting a foreign object, she starts to wonder if something is wrong with her baby. There's also the fact that she told her publicist Siobhan (played by Kim Kardashian) that she'd do anything to remain at the top of the her career.

What's revealed is that a baby cult does exist and Dexter's dead first wife knew all about it. However, the cult still looks at him as a threat so it's only a matter of time before they close in.

If you need a refresher, catch up on the first part of AHS: Delicate on Hulu and be sure to check out the eery trailer for a look at part two! Also, get your hands on a copy of Danielle Valentine’s novel Delicate Condition to see how the story truly unfolds.

Watch The Official Trailer For AHS: Delicate Part 2

www.youtube.com

American Horror Story: Delicate Part Two | Official Trailer - Emma Roberts, Kim Kardashian | FX

We suspected Siobhan may have a darker role than Anna thinks and the trailer confirms it. As Anna gets further along in her pregnancy, it's hinted that her growing baby may not be 'normal' and there's nothing she'll be able to do about it.

We're crossing our fingers for Anna and Dexter, but the baby cult may have the final say in AHS: Delicate Part 2.

The first portion of AHS: Delicate Part 2 premiered on FX April 3, 2024, but the series will come to a close beginning April 24. All we can say is things are about to get extremely bumpy 👀.

What do you think will happen during the final moments of AHS: Delicate Part 2? Let us know in the comments!

Stay updated on the latest entertainment news with Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.
Header image via FX Networks

We know that Taylor just released The Tortured Poets Department, sending the internet (and us) into a frenzy to decipher her lyrics and determine who is the subject of each song (we're looking at you, Matty). But we’re still stuck on her last album, Midnights — and more specifically, "Lavender Haze." While we're still obsessed with that song — especially the acoustic version — we're even more obsessed with the shade of purple itself.

Lavender took over the 2023 spring/summer fashion shows, but lavender’s lighter cousin, lilac, is taking the crown as the costar of the season alongside butter yellow this year. This pastel shade has always been a springtime favorite, and it's honestly the perfect color to add to your wardrobe right now. With that in mind, here are a few on-trend pieces to add to your wardrobe to enjoy this season’s fave color.

Shop The Lilac Color Trend Here!

J.Crew Collection Layered Sequin T-Shirt

This sequined top and matching skirt from J.Crew could be my favorite set I’ve seen this season. The top is a sheer and shimmery short-sleeve with a matching colored camisole underneath. The shirt comes with a shorter liner for a fun and flirty evening look, without showing too much skin. Both pieces come in lilac and are covered in light-reflecting sequins.

Coach Jonie Bag

An easy way to incorporate a new color is through accessories, like shoes, jewelry, or bags. I adore Coach, and I'm always checking their website and socials for their latest drop. I’ve been eyeing this purple Jonie Bag for a while and it might be time to click “order.”

Abercrombie Textured Button-Through Shirt Dress

This loose and airy short-sleeve mini dress from Abercrombie is perfect for hot summer days in the office or running errands. Available in petite, regular, and tall, there’s a length for everyone. Pair with flats and a light jacket or blazer for an easy and cool office look.

GAP Mid Rise Crinkle Gauze Wide-Leg Pants

I practically live in linen pants once the temp hits 70 degrees. This style is a "breathable cotton" and comes in a variety of colors, including lilac. These are effortless and easy to throw on with an elastic waistband. I'd love to see them with a graphic tee and sambas!

Abercrombie Ottoman Slash Top

I’m a huge fan of the Ottoman tops from Abercrombie, and this lilac one is in my shopping cart as we speak. This fitted sweater top is a closet staple and easy to pair with linen trousers and sneakers or a mini skirt and heeled sandals.

Urban Outfitters Bri Double Bow Satin Mini Dress

As someone who is obsessed with bows, this lilac dress with bow straps is too cute. I’ll be wearing this satin mini all summer long.

H&M Open-Back Gathered Top

With a variety of purple, lavender, and lilac shades — and a just bit of yellowy orange — this tie-dye-inspired tank is the perfect going out top for spring and summer. The gathered seams on the side provide a great shape and the open back is perfect for a hot summer night.

Adidas Sambas OG

As someone who is getting bored of plain, white sneakers, I am seriously considering adding a colorful tennis shoe to my (overflowing) closet. Adidas Sambas are everywhere right now, and this purple pair is so cool.

J.Crew Garçon Classic Shirt In Striped Cotton Poplin

This everyday button down shirt is a classic from J.Crew, but the color and print make it feel fresh and new. This top is perfect with white trousers and white sneakers for a cute and casual daytime outfit or with black trousers and pumps for an office-ready look.

Lululemon Varsity High-Rise Pleated Tennis Skirt

Even Lululemon is into lilac. This trendy tennis skirt, which comes in a variety of colors, is now available in lilac. Designed for tennis but also perfect for all your Hot Girl and Wine Walks, this fun and bright skirt will make any workout better.

Banana Republic Ariella Taffeta Midi Dress

Midi dresses are the best for summer — they’re comfortable, easy to throw on, and always look cute. This purple one from Banana Republic is no exception, and would be a perfect pick for your next vacay.

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