Netflix Finally Embraces HDR10+—Here’s Why It Matters | Image Source: arstechnica.com
LOS GATOS, California, March 25, 2025 – In a long-standing movement, Netflix officially introduced the HDR10+ support, a high-end dynamic format (HDR) known for its stage-by-stage image optimization. The update brings an important leap to see the quality of millions of subscribers, especially those using Samsung TV, who do not support the previously favoured Dolby Vision format. Netflix’s decision not only aligns it with other important streaming platforms such as Disney+, Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video, but also unlocks a more immersive visual experience for a substantial part of its global audience.
As Netflix stated in its Official Tech Blog, the company started publishing HDR10+ content in all new and existing titles. Impressive, the update already accounts for almost 50% of eligible viewing hours. In order to include HDR10+ in all HDR titles at the end of the year, Netflix seems to be committed to making premium video quality more accessible, especially for users whose devices are incompatible with Dolby Vision. According to the streaming giant, more than 11,000 hours of HDR content are currently available on your platform.
What is HDR10+ and how is it different?
High dynamic range, or HDR, is a technology that improves contrast and color in video content. There are several HDR formats, including HDR10, Dolby Vision and HDR10+. Although HDR10 is widely compatible, it uses static metadata, applying the same levels of brightness and contrast to a whole film or show. On the contrary, HDR10 + – like Dolby Vision – uses dynamic metadata, allowing creators to adjust these settings by scene or even image by image.
This dynamic adjustment translates into visual that they are more like the intentions of creators. For example, light scenes will not be overexposed, and dark scenes will keep details, especially on medium-range HDR televisions. Bill Mandel, vice president of Samsung Research America, highlighted this point in LinkedIn, commending the update as a significant improvement allowed by the use of Netflix of AV1 codec. He noted that the codec guarantees better quality in lower bandwidth, a winner for both users and the platform.
Why now? The meaning of time
For many industrial vigilantes, the most relevant question is not what HDR10+ is, but why did Netflix take so long to support it? According to Forbes and The Verge, the delay could be attributed to Netflix’s long association with Dolby Vision, which is the default HDR format of the stream for years. However, Dolby Vision requires licensing rates, and not all television manufacturers, in particular Samsung, support it.
Samsung’s decision not to support Dolby Vision is not arbitrary. The company played a key role in the development of HDR10+ as a rights-free alternative. Given Samsung’s 19-year reign as the global high-speed television brand, the lack of Dolby Vision support has created a significant gap for Netflix users. By embracing HDR10+, Netflix is finally addressing this market segment, improving its inclusiveness and future testing of its content delivery strategy.
Which devices support HDR10+?
Support for HDR10+ covers beyond Samsung. Other brands such as TCL, Panasonic and Hisense have integrated the format into their devices. However, there is one catch: to discover HDR10+ on Netflix, users must own a compatible device and subscribe to the Premium package at a price of $25 per month. This is a strengthening of the standard plan, which offers a resolution of 1080p but does not have access to HDR or 4K content.
The AV1 codec that Netflix uses to transmit HDR10+ content also requires hardware support. Fortunately, most televisions broadcast over the past five years are compatible with AV1. That said, old models can be lost unless they are complemented by a compatible streaming box or media player.
What does this mean for Samsung TV owners?
If you have a Samsung TV, you probably breathe a sigh of relief. Up to now, Netflix HDR content was limited to HDR10, the static and less nuanced version of HDR. Dolby Vision was not even an option, effectively limiting Samsung users to a sub-optimal viewing experience. Now, with HDR10+ in play, your Samsung TV can finally flex its full potential.
Nor is it a theoretical improvement. Real-world tests, such as playing “The Super Mario Bros Movie” or “No Hard Feelings” in recent Samsung models, confirm that Netflix now puts HDR10 + compatible content label forward. The result? Brighter colours, contrasts and sharper details that were previously lost in too bright or dark scenes.
Will spectators really notice the difference?
That’s where things become a little subjective. Dan Rayburn, consultant and president of the NAB Streaming Summit, told Ars Technica that the discernible difference in HDR quality often depends on the configuration and sensitivity of the viewer. ”Some will not see the difference in quality, some of them unable to distinguish HD and 4K,” he explained. “It’s a personal preference, based on the device and visualization habits. »
However, for filmmakers and technology users, the update is tangible. Whether it is the brightness of the sun in the armor of a superhero or the shades nuanced in the night pursuit of a thriller, HDR10+ adds a polishing layer that the standard HDR simply cannot reproduce. Even occasional spectators may find themselves unknowingly enjoying clear and more natural visual transitions of lighting.
Does this replace Dolby Vision in Netflix?
That’s not true. It is important to note that adopting Netflix from HDR10+ does not mean you are leaving Dolby Vision. According to Netflix’s Tech blog, the platform continues to mandate Dolby Vision Masters from content providers. Its encoding tube is built to extract all supported HDR formats from these teachers, including HDR10+ and HDR10. Therefore, if your TV supports both formats, Netflix will normally predetermine Dolby Vision for reproduction.
This dual format support is particularly beneficial for high-end brand users such as Sony or LG, who support both HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. In these cases, Netflix can choose the best format available automatically, ensuring maximum output quality.
How does Netflix compare to other platforms now?
With the inclusion of HDR10+, Netflix is now online with other streaming services that have already adopted the format. Amazon Prime Video was one of the first, with Disney + and Apple TV + next combination. These first recognized platforms in the sense that restoring different television ecosystems is essential to maximize customer reach and satisfaction.
Netflix movement can also be seen as a response to increased competition. As the streaming landscape becomes more crowded, features such as improved video quality can serve as differentiators. With HDR10+, Netflix sends a clear message: quality problems, accessibility.
What’s next for Netflix HDR Content?
Netflix aims to put all HDR content on its platform available on HDR10 + end 2025. Since HDR10+ already covers half of all eligible viewing hours, this objective seems to be within reach. The platform is on the AV1 codec to offer this content effectively, potentially exceeding older standards such as H.264 / AVC in the near future.
This continued investment in video technology underscores Netflix’s broader commitment to providing the best possible user experience. It also notes that although it is sailing for price changes and increased competition, the company is not relying on its laurels.
So you care about HDR10+? If you have the right configuration, and Premium plan, absolutely. This is one of those updates from behind the scene that silently but significantly improves your visualization experience. And in the golden age of diffusion, nothing is missing.
