Netflix Adds High Dynamic Range Support for Windows 10

Connoisseurs of online streaming content will be glad to know that Netflix now officially supports High Dynamic Range on Windows 10. This is applicable not just on the Netflix app, but on Microsoft’s Edge web browser as well. Other than those two, requirements include an HDR capable display screen and an HDR capable video processor. Intel’s 7th generation or newer CPUs for instance has the capability to playback Netflix HDR10 encodes. NVIDIA GPUs with 10 bits-per-channel support are also capable of HDR playback. Netflix even partnered up with Microsoft to leverage these technologies and make the feature possible on the desktop. The latest Windows 10 Fall Creator’s Update is also necessary for full compatibility.

Intel IGP Requirements

• Windows 10 Creators Update is required (version 1703).
• CPU: 7th Generation Core (i3, i5, or i7 7xxx or 7Yxx) or higher processor.
• Graphics Driver: 22.XX.XX series, version 4708 or higher.

NVIDIA GPU Requirements

• Windows 10 Fall Creators Update is required (version 1703).
• GPU: 1050, 1060, 1070, and 1080 cards with at least 3GB of video RAM.
• Graphics Driver: 387.68 (23.21.13.8768) or higher.

What is High Dynamic Range (HDR)?

With HDR enabled, viewers will be able to watch shows in vivid colours. High Dynamic Range is also much closer to what the human eye sees in terms of luminosity, instead of what the camera interprets. Like with 4K UHD content, Netflix has plenty of video supporting HDR. This includes the latest film Bright by David Ayers starring Will Smith, as well as the second season of Stranger Things. In fact, Netflix has over 200 hours of HDR content available, with more to be added in 2018.

Just like with Netflix’ 4K UHD content as well, HDR content is only available to those with premium Netflix membership.