Netflix Adds HDR Video Support to Android, Starting With the LG G6

Netflix has added support for HDR (high-dynamic range) video to its Android app, which means you can experience richer colours and better contrast on the go. There’s a caveat, though – it’s only available on the LG G6.

CEO Reed Hastings had talked about Netflix’s plans to bring HDR support to smartphones at MWC 2017 in Barcelona, where he had pointed out that the G6 would be the starting point. And that’s exactly what has happened, which was first spotted by Phandroid.

To watch shows like House of Cards or Marvel’s Iron Fist in HDR on the LG G6, you’ll need to be on the streaming service’s top-tier 4K streaming plan, as Netflix doesn’t provide HDR with its other plans. You can get a full list of available HDR titles on the website. Plus, you’ll need the latest version of the Netflix app, v5.0.1, which is now rolling out.

How Netflix Is Learning to Plan for HDR

Apart from the G6, there aren’t many smartphones out there that have an HDR-capable display. Samsung’s Galaxy S8 is a popular option, and should receive support soon. The other is Sony’s Xperia XZ Premium, which was shown off at MWC, but has yet to launch.

And like the TV front, there are a few competing formats for mobile HDR as well. The LG G6 has both HDR10 and Dolby Vision support, while the Galaxy S8 – owing to Samsung’s membership in UHD Alliance – works on Mobile HDR Premium. Thankfully, Netflix has agreed to work with all available standards.

On the other side, Amazon Video (in the US) has UHD HDR support for the Xperia XZ Premium, and HDR support for Samsung’s Galaxy S8/S8+, and Galaxy Tab S3.