YouTube has quietly started testing out real HD quality videos on a smattering of its content, a development that is getting attention from viewers in message boards and blog forums this week. The new format could be a big move for YouTube, as the video size is over 80MB, which means that they are probably the same H.264 encoded mp4 files available in the iTunes store.

Getting premium quality video available on the site is integral for YouTube's success as the company struggles to turn a profit from its vast array of content available online.

The new formats have been available on a few videos for a few months now, and a small hack can upgrade any video taped at a high enough quality. YouTube confirms this is part of their efforts to test out different video formats.

The new format seems like real HD 720p video and looks clean and professional in the widescreen format.

This is quite revolutionary. I have been waiting for this feature for a long time. Just like Justin Uberti said video and voice chat were added today in gmail.

The release of Flash Player 9 Update 3 Beta 2, codenamed Moviestar, which will support H.264 standard video as well as High Efficiency AAC (HE-AAC) and other improvements. Adobe engineer Tinic Uro, who works on the Flash Player, has more technical detail on his blog.