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After many years of waiting, Netflix has added 4K resolution support to the Google Chrome browser. That's good news for people who watch movies and TV shows on computers, because until now the highest picture quality could only be achieved 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 adds 4K support in Google Chrome, but only on Windows 11
Netflix has officially added the ability to watch 4K content via the Google Chrome browser. It's the first change of its kind in years and a major convenience for Windows users. Until now, people using Windows computers could only stream Netflix in 4K using Microsoft Edge. Mac users had access to this feature in Safari on macOS 11 or later. Now Chrome joins the list of supported browsers, but only on devices running Windows 11 and with an appropriately updated version of the browser. Netflix notes that support does not include macOS computers using Chrome or other operating systems. For Linux, the situation remains unchanged: the maximum picture quality in Chrome is still only 720p. The limitations are primarily due to content protection mechanisms used by streaming platforms. Still, for many Windows 11 users, this is one of the most anticipated changes to the browser-based version of the service.
Chrome still doesn't offer all features available in the Netflix app
Although 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 apps running on compatible devices. That means the best way to watch movies and series in the highest quality is still devices like Apple TV 4K, Google TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku or modern Smart TVs with the official app. Netflix also notes that other popular browsers still 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 audio quality should therefore continue to use dedicated apps instead of a web browser. Adding 4K support in Chrome is, however, an important step that shows Netflix is gradually expanding the capabilities of its platform to additional environments.
Netflix has finally enabled 4K playback in the Google Chrome browser, but the feature is available only on computers running Windows 11. However, keep in mind that Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos remain available only in the official Netflix app on compatible devices.
source: flatpanelshd
