Netflix Enhances Streaming Quality with HDR10+ Format
Leading streaming service Netflix has broadened its technical capabilities to now deliver select video content in HDR10+, an advanced iteration of HDR10. This enhancement joins Dolby Vision as a supported high dynamic range format, providing premium subscribers with an upgraded viewing experience.
Improved Picture Quality for Compatible Devices
The availability of the high dynamic range format applies to Premium tier subscribers. Netflix indicates that viewers utilizing devices compatible with HDR10+ will experience superior visuals. According to the company, “The dynamic metadata integrated within our HDR10+ content refines the quality and precision of the image when displayed on these supported devices.”
Netflix has affirmed its commitment to high-quality formats, stating it has been producing content in the primary HDR formats since 2014, starting with the series Marco Polo. Currently, their catalog boasts approximately 11,000 hours of HDR material.
Samsung TV Owners Benefit from HDR10+ Support
This announcement is particularly relevant for owners of Samsung TVs, a prominent supporter of HDR10+. Many of Samsung’s 4K televisions already incorporate this format. Bill Mandel, Vice President at Samsung Research America, shared his perspective on LinkedIn, noting, “Netflix has initiated the deployment of HDR10+… Of particular significance in this announcement is the employment of the latest high efficiency codec (AV1), facilitating peak quality at reduced bandwidth.”
Viewer Perception of HDR10+ Enhancements
Industry analyst Dan Rayburn, consultant and chairman for the NAB Streaming Summit, suggests this addition aligns with Netflix’s strategy to cater to users opting for their premium subscription, currently priced at $25 per month.
“Netflix’s core mission is to provide optimal video quality, and HDR10+ enables them to achieve this,” stated Rayburn.
However, the extent to which viewers will discern the improvements promoted by Netflix remains to be seen.
“The perceived difference in quality will vary; some may not recognize enhancements, similar to varying perceptions between HD and 4K resolution depending on the display and viewer acuity,” Rayburn elaborated. “Ultimately, individual preference dictates monthly expenditure and the desired level of quality, contingent on viewing habits and display device.”
HDR10+ Availability Across Streaming Platforms
Netflix joins other streaming platforms such as Disney Plus, AppleTV Plus, and Amazon Prime Video in offering content in HDR10+.
Premium Plan Price Adjustment
Earlier this year, in January, Netflix implemented price increases across its subscription tiers and introduced an option for additional user accounts. The Premium plan, now featuring HDR10+ streaming, experienced a $2 price increase, reaching $25.