Not Netflix, not Disney+, not Apple TV+ or HBO. It is Peacock that officially declared support for Dolby Vision 2 as the first streaming service. The platform owned by NBCUniversal also announced live sports broadcasts in Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Four months after the official presentation of Dolby Vision 2, we learned of the first confirmed distribution partner for the new HDR standard. The choice may be surprising, but all indications suggest that this is part of a broader technology agreement between Dolby and NBCUniversal. Peacock is currently available only in North America.
– “Continuing our commitment to providing fans with the best possible experiences, ChooseTV is expanding the availability of Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos in live sports broadcasts over the next year. ChooseTV is also the first streaming service to announce support for Dolby Vision 2 and Dolby AC-4, which are set to launch later this year,” Peacock informed.
What, where and when?
So far, details regarding Dolby Vision 2 are very limited. It has only been confirmed that the first content in this standard will appear on Peacock in the second half of 2026. This means that other platforms, including Netflix, still have time to take the initiative. Neither Dolby nor Peacock have disclosed the titles that will receive Dolby Vision 2, nor the list of compatible devices. During CES 2026, Hisense announced support for Dolby Vision 2 via a later software update, while TCL announced support for Dolby Vision 2 Max, also in the form of a firmware update.
Dolby AC-4 instead of older codecs
Peacock has also confirmed the implementation of the Dolby AC-4 audio codec. According to Dolby, it is even 50% more efficient than previous solutions. Currently, most streaming services use Dolby AC-3 or e-AC-3, also for 5.1 sound and Dolby Atmos. AC-4 offers, among other things, features for sound personalisation and improved dialogue clarity, which is particularly important in live broadcasts.
Live Sports in Dolby Vision and Atmos
In 2026, Peacock will begin implementing live sports broadcasts in Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos. HDR aims to enhance the dynamic range of the image, revealing more details in both bright and dark areas, which is particularly important during matches played under changing lighting conditions. A wider colour palette will also allow for more saturated colours, including a more natural green of the pitch.
Dolby Atmos, on the other hand, is set to enhance the sense of presence in the stadium, better capturing the atmosphere of the stands and surroundings. Peacock has confirmed that Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos will cover broadcasts of Sunday Night Football, the NBA, and MLB. At this moment, it is unclear whether the sports broadcasts will use standard Dolby Vision or Dolby Vision 2. More information is expected to be revealed closer to the launch of the service.
