Disney+ Expands HDR Options: What It Means for Viewers

Disney+ has taken a step forward in enhancing its streaming quality by adding support for HDR10+ format. This move is part of a broader strategy to improve the viewing experience, but it's not without its limitations. Currently, only a selection of Hulu titles, over 1, 000 to be exact, are available in HDR10+ on Disney+. This is a significant number, but it's important to note that it's just a fraction of the total content library. Samsung TV owners are the first to benefit from this update. Samsung's range of TVs, from Crystal UHD to OLED, QLED, and even The Frame TVs, now support HDR10+ streaming from Disney+. This is a big deal because Samsung TVs don't support Dolby Vision, another popular HDR format. By offering HDR10+, Disney+ is making its service more attractive to Samsung TV users, who make up a large portion of the market. HDR10+ is a more advanced format than HDR10. It uses dynamic metadata, which allows content creators to fine-tune each frame for better image quality. This is particularly useful for improving black levels and other image-quality issues. However, Dolby Vision goes even further with its advanced capabilities, including 12-bit color and different profiles and levels. Despite Dolby Vision's advantages, HDR10+ has its merits, especially for streaming services looking to cater to a wider range of devices. The addition of HDR10+ comes at a time when streaming services are facing increased competition and scrutiny. Customers are looking for the best value for their money, and features like HDR can make a service stand out. It's worth noting that Disney+ offers HDR streaming even on its cheapest subscription plan, which is a plus for budget-conscious viewers. This update follows a recent price increase for Disney+'s streaming service. While the addition of HDR10+ is a positive step, it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to justify the higher costs for some subscribers. As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, it's clear that Disney+ is trying to stay ahead of the curve.