Get ready for a richer, more vibrant viewing experience! Disney+ has just taken its first step into the world of HDR10+ content, promising improved picture quality for compatible devices. While the initial rollout is limited, this move signals Disney’s commitment to providing top-notch visuals for its streaming subscribers. Let’s dive into what this means for you and your entertainment setup.
What is HDR10+ and Why Should You Care?
HDR10+ is an advanced High Dynamic Range (HDR) format designed to enhance the contrast, color, and overall picture quality of video content. Think of it as a supercharged version of standard HDR10. HDR, in general, offers a wider range of colors and greater contrast between the brightest and darkest parts of an image, making visuals more realistic and immersive. But HDR10+ goes a step further with its dynamic metadata.
Unlike HDR10, which uses static metadata that applies the same color and contrast settings to the entire video, HDR10+ uses dynamic metadata. This means the settings are adjusted scene-by-scene (or even frame-by-frame), optimizing the picture for each moment. The result? More detail in both bright and dark scenes, richer colors, and a more lifelike image that truly pops off the screen. This makes everything from animated adventures to live-action blockbusters look significantly better.
HDR10+ is also an open standard, which means it’s royalty-free for content creators. This contrasts with Dolby Vision, a competing HDR format that requires licensing fees. While both offer excellent picture quality, the open nature of HDR10+ makes it a more accessible option for widespread adoption.
Disney+ and HDR10+: The Initial Rollout
Disney+ is starting its HDR10+ journey with content sourced from Hulu. Approximately 1,000 shows from Hulu’s library will be available in HDR10+ on Disney+. This is great news for fans of Hulu originals and those looking to experience the benefits of HDR10+ on their Disney+ subscription. While the initial offering is limited to Hulu content, it opens the door for wider adoption across Disney’s vast content library in the future.
The initial launch will be specifically on Samsung Crystal UHD TVs and above, dating back to 2018 models, and select Samsung Smart Monitors. This partnership with Samsung, a major proponent of HDR10+, makes sense given Samsung’s commitment to the technology and the widespread availability of their HDR10+-compatible TVs. If you own a qualifying Samsung TV, you’re in for a treat! You’ll be able to immediately enjoy the enhanced visuals of HDR10+ on supported Hulu content within Disney+.
It’s important to note that not all Disney+ content will immediately be available in HDR10+. Disney has stated that support for other programming under the Disney umbrella will be added at an unspecified later date. This suggests a phased approach, likely starting with popular titles and gradually expanding to encompass a broader range of content.
What You Need to Enjoy HDR10+ on Disney+
To experience HDR10+ on Disney+, you’ll need a few key components. First and foremost, you need a TV or monitor that supports the HDR10+ format. As mentioned, the initial launch focuses on Samsung Crystal UHD TVs (2018 models and later) and select Samsung Smart Monitors. Be sure to check your TV’s specifications to confirm compatibility. While other TV brands may eventually support HDR10+ on Disney+, Samsung devices are the focus for the initial rollout.
Secondly, you’ll need a Disney+ subscription, of course. Make sure your subscription is active and that you’re using the Disney+ app on your compatible Samsung device. Ensure that your Disney+ app is up to date to ensure you have the latest features and support for HDR10+ content. Finally, you’ll need a stable and reasonably fast internet connection. Streaming HDR content requires more bandwidth than standard definition or even standard HDR content.
Once you have all the necessary equipment and a valid Disney+ subscription, simply navigate to the Hulu content within the Disney+ app on your compatible Samsung device. If the show or movie is available in HDR10+, your TV should automatically detect and display it in HDR10+. You can typically confirm that HDR10+ is active through your TV’s picture settings or information display.
The Future of HDR on Disney+
Disney+’s move to incorporate HDR10+ is a significant step forward in its commitment to delivering a premium streaming experience. While the initial offering is limited, it demonstrates Disney’s willingness to embrace advanced video technologies. We can expect to see wider support for HDR10+ across Disney’s content library in the future, potentially including popular franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar.
The competition between HDR10+ and Dolby Vision will continue to drive innovation in the HDR space. As both formats evolve, viewers will benefit from improved picture quality and a more immersive viewing experience. Whether Disney+ ultimately embraces both formats or primarily focuses on HDR10+ remains to be seen, but either way, the future of HDR streaming looks bright (pun intended!).
Ultimately, the arrival of HDR10+ on Disney+ is a win for consumers. It provides another option for experiencing content with enhanced visuals and brings us one step closer to a truly cinematic experience in our homes. So, if you have a compatible Samsung TV, get ready to dive into the world of HDR10+ and rediscover your favorite Hulu shows in stunning detail!
