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After many years of waiting, Netflix has expanded 4K resolution support to the Google Chrome browser. This is good news for people who watch films and TV shows on computers, because until now the best picture quality was only available in certain browsers. However, the new feature isn't available to all users. Netflix has set a few requirements that must be met to enjoy content in Ultra HD.
Netflix introduces 4K support in Google Chrome, but only on Windows 11
Netflix has officially added the ability to watch 4K content via Google Chrome. It's the first such change in years and a major convenience for Windows users. Until now, people using Windows PCs could only play Netflix in 4K using Microsoft Edge. Apple computer users, meanwhile, have had access to this feature in Safari on macOS 11 or later. Now Chrome also joins the list of supported browsers, but only on devices running Windows 11 with an appropriately updated browser version. Netflix notes that support does not include macOS machines running Chrome or other operating systems. On Linux the situation remains unchanged, as Chrome is still limited to a maximum of 720p there. The limitations stem mainly from content protection mechanisms used by streaming platforms. Still, for many Windows 11 users this is one of the most eagerly awaited changes to the browser version of the service.
Chrome still doesn’t offer all features available in the Netflix app
While 4K support in Google Chrome is a big step forward, users still don’t get the full set of features available in the dedicated Netflix app. When watching content through a browser, you still can’t use Dolby Vision, HDR10+ or Dolby Atmos spatial audio. These features remain reserved for the Netflix app on compatible devices. That means the best way to watch films and series in the highest quality is still devices such as Apple TV 4K, Google TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku or modern smart TVs with the official app. Netflix also notes that other popular browsers continue to have their limitations. Firefox and Opera allow playback at up to 1080p and only in standard dynamic range (SDR). People expecting the highest picture and sound quality should therefore still use the dedicated apps rather than a web browser. Adding 4K support in Chrome is, however, an important step that shows Netflix is gradually expanding its platform’s capabilities to more environments.
Netflix has finally enabled 4K playback in the Google Chrome browser, but the feature is only available on computers running Windows 11. You still need to bear the limitations in mind, because Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos remain available only through the official Netflix app on supported devices.
source: flatpanelshd
