YouTube goes 'retro' with new 'VHS mode'

YouTube has introduced a 'VHS mode' that introduces random static and fuzzy motion synonymous with the VHS era to commemorate 57th birthday of the first commercial VCR. The option is available as a button on select videos at the bottom right of the player.

YouTube announced the feature via a post on YouTube's Google+ page. One video with the VHS mode is available here.

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.

VHS, or video cassetes as they were simply called, were the popular medium of choice for movies and home videos, before the digital age took over with VCDs, DVDs etc.

YouTube has been having some fun off late, with an elaborate April Fool's prank earlier this month. YouTube said it was going dark for a decade, and that the site was merely an eight-year contest to find the best video.

"It's finally time to pick the winner," YouTube announced in a 3:32 minute video posted on its homepage.

"We are so close to the end. Tonight at midnight, youtube.com will no longer be accepting entries. After eight amazing years, it is finally time to review everything that has been uploaded to our site and begin the process of selecting a winner," said Tim Liston, named as "competition director."

Whether the prank fooled any gullible patrons of the site isn't clear, but the VHS mode is sure to find many fans.