Disney+ Expands HDR10+ Library with Over 1,000 Hulu Titles, Samsung TVs Get First Access

Disney+ is significantly expanding its HDR10+ content library. The streaming service is adding over 1,000 Hulu titles in the enhanced format. Samsung TV owners will be the first to get access to these improved streams.

This move follows an announcement from Disney+ earlier this year. The company pledged to add HDR10+ support to its platform. This gives viewers with compatible devices a superior picture quality option.

A Major Boost for Samsung TV Viewers

This expansion is a significant win for Samsung’s ecosystem. Samsung TVs and smart monitors have historically supported HDR10 and HDR10+, but not the competing Dolby Vision format. According to Reuters, this has limited the video quality for Samsung users on certain platforms.

Previously, Disney+ content streamed in Dolby Vision or basic HDR10 on Samsung devices. The basic HDR10 format does not leverage a television’s full capabilities. HDR10+ provides a dynamic, scene-by-scene enhancement for a more vibrant picture.

With this update, supported Samsung devices can now play this new content in its intended high-quality format. This ensures viewers see the content as creators intended. The partnership highlights a strategic alignment between the streaming giant and the electronics manufacturer.

The High-Dynamic-Range Format War Explained

The push for HDR10+ represents a key battleground in home entertainment. HDR10+ is an open standard developed by Samsung and other partners. It is offered to device makers without royalty fees.

In contrast, Dolby Vision is a proprietary technology from Dolby Laboratories. Adopting it requires manufacturers to pay licensing costs. This fundamental difference is why Samsung has resisted adding Dolby Vision to its televisions.

For consumers, the result is a fragmented viewing experience. This Disney+ move helps balance the scales for Samsung TV owners. It ensures they are no longer at a visual quality disadvantage for a major streaming service.

The addition of HDR10+ support marks a pivotal shift in streaming video quality accessibility. It directly addresses a long-standing gap for a major segment of the market. This strategic expansion ensures Samsung TV users can finally enjoy a premium, dynamic HDR experience on Disney+.

Info at your fingertips

What is HDR10+?

HDR10+ is a dynamic high-dynamic-range video format. It adjusts the picture brightness scene-by-scene. This creates a more realistic and vibrant image compared to standard HDR10.

Which devices support HDR10+?

Samsung TVs and smart monitors are primary supporters of the format. Other brands like TCL and Hisense also offer HDR10+ on many of their models. You should check your specific device’s specifications for confirmation.

Will more Disney+ shows get HDR10+?

Yes, Disney+ has confirmed it plans to add more titles. The service will expand its HDR10+ catalog to include its own original series and films in the future. This initial Hulu batch is just the beginning.

How does HDR10+ compare to Dolby Vision?

Both are high-end dynamic HDR formats that offer a superior viewing experience. The main difference is that HDR10+ is an open standard, while Dolby Vision is proprietary. For most viewers, the visual quality is very similar.

Why did Disney+ add HDR10+ support?

The move makes business sense by catering to a large user base. It directly improves the experience for millions of Samsung television owners. This makes the Disney+ service more attractive and competitive.