Disney+ has officially rolled out support for HDR10+, a high dynamic range (HDR) format that brings enhanced color and contrast scene-by-scene. As reported by FlatpanelsHD, the long-anticipated feature is now live, though only for select viewers.
At launch, the upgrade applies exclusively to Hulu content on Disney+, with over 1,000 titles available in HDR10+. Disney+ plans to expand HDR10+ support to more Hulu shows and eventually to Disney-branded content as well. This addition brings Disney+ in line with other major platforms like Amazon and Netflix, both of which already support HDR10+ in addition to Dolby Vision.
Unlike standard HDR10, HDR10+ uses dynamic metadata to optimize brightness and contrast on a per-scene basis, allowing for better visual quality, particularly on mid-range TVs that may struggle with static HDR. While Disney+ has long offered HDR10 and Dolby Vision, the addition of HDR10+ provides a more flexible and inclusive solution for TVs that do not support Dolby Vision.
There’s a catch, though: at launch, HDR10+ on Disney+ is exclusive to Samsung TVs and select Samsung Smart monitors. According to FlatpanelsHD, compatibility begins with Samsung’s 2018 models and requires an updated Disney+ app. This exclusivity makes sense, given Samsung’s central role in developing HDR10+ and its long-standing decision not to support Dolby Vision on its TVs.
“We are delighted to introduce this technology onto Disney+ and remain committed to collaborating with various partners to broaden HDR10+ support across our product range and the wider streaming landscape,” said Inbeom Kim, VP of Visual Display at Samsung, in a company statement.
The rollout leaves many users waiting. Despite some signs that Apple’s tvOS app may already indicate HDR10+ availability, Disney has not confirmed support for Apple TV 4K, Amazon Fire TV, or other streaming devices. There’s also no timeline for when broader device compatibility might arrive.
To access any HDR format on Disney+, including HDR10+, viewers need a Disney+ Premium subscription, which also unlocks 4K resolution and Dolby Atmos audio.
As the streaming quality arms race heats up, Disney+ is signaling its commitment to staying competitive. And while HDR10+ availability is limited for now, this move could pave the way for more widespread support in the months ahead. For Samsung users, the wait is over and the upgrade is ready.
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