Samsung has clarified which TVs support Netflix HDR10+ and explained the limitations behind the feature. The news followed Netflix’s addition of HDR10+ support and raised questions among Samsung TV users.
Which Samsung TVs Support Netflix HDR10+?
Samsung now confirms that only TVs released from 2021 onward support Netflix HDR10+. Older models, such as those from 2020 and earlier, do not. The key reason is a hardware limitation related to the AV1 codec.
Why the Limitation?
Netflix uses the AV1 high-efficiency codec to deliver HDR10+ content. This codec requires specialized hardware for decoding. Samsung’s 2020 models were designed before AV1 became standard. As a result, these older TVs lack the necessary chipset support for AV1 and cannot play Netflix HDR10+ content.
Key Points
- AV1 Codec Requirement: Netflix delivers HDR10+ using AV1.
- Hardware Limitation: TVs before 2021 do not have AV1-compatible chipsets.
- Supported Models: Only Samsung TVs from 2021 onward support Netflix HDR10+.
Comparison with Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video handles HDR10+ differently. Even though it uses AV1, it continues supporting HEVC (H.265). This dual codec approach allows even older Samsung TVs (from 2020) to stream HDR10+ content when encoded with HEVC.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Netflix HDR10+ | Amazon Prime Video HDR10+ |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Codec | AV1 | AV1 and HEVC (H.265) |
| Hardware Requirement | 2021 models and newer | Supports 2020 models via HEVC |
| Compatibility on Older TVs | Not supported | Supported through HEVC |
What Is HDR10+?
HDR10+ is an advanced high dynamic range format that uses scene-by-scene metadata. This dynamic approach allows TVs to adjust brightness and contrast more precisely. The result is better detail in both bright and dark areas, even on TVs that are not top-of-the-line.
FAQs
Only models from 2021 onward support Netflix HDR10+.
Older models lack the necessary AV1 codec support in their hardware.
No. Codec compatibility relies on the TV’s hardware, which cannot be changed with an update.
Amazon Prime Video uses both AV1 and HEVC, allowing older TVs to stream HDR10+ content using HEVC.
Final Thoughts
Samsung’s clarification clears up the confusion regarding Netflix HDR10+ support. Users with Samsung TVs from 2021 onward can enjoy Netflix HDR10+ content without issues. Meanwhile, older models will continue to rely on Amazon Prime Video for HDR10+ content through HEVC. This explanation should help users make informed decisions when considering their TV models for the best HDR experience.
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