YouTube + HDR = YouTube HDR for HDR-enabled TVs and displays. Any questions?
For users with HDR-enabled 4K Smart TVs or displays, they’re now able to watch their favorite videos in 4K. That’s according to a post on YouTube’s official blog.
“We believe in the power of video at YouTube. It’s what allows for the creativity, connection, and fun that brings together our community of creators and viewers. And over the last 11 years, we’ve worked hard to push the boundaries of online video. We’ve added product features and made new video and audio formats available to everyone, from HD to 4K video, live streaming, 3D, 360-degree video, and spatial audio.”
More and more televisions and displays are supporting High Dynamic Range, better known as HDR. For years, professional photographers have purchased and used cameras with HDR to capture the best-looking shots. It’s a technique used in imaging as well as photography that reproduces a greater dynamic range of luminosity. In photography, HDR uses three photos, taken at different exposures, which is then edited using image editing software. With smartphones, you’ll only get one photo, however. According to FhotoRoom, Greg Ward created the .hdr format after a lot of hard work.
4K adoption hasn’t taken off just yet on the internet. Netflix is working on offering more users streaming in 4K, with only certain models currently supported. In the video game market, the PS4 Pro supports HDR 4K compatible video games. The upcoming Xbox Scorpio will most likely support it, as well.
YouTube will roll out the service today, first on supporting enabled TVs with Chromecast Ultra, and then Samsung SUHD and UHD TVs. You don’t have to worry if you’re on a device that doesn’t support this content yet, according to the company.
“Don’t worry, videos will still play in standard dynamic range. As more HDR devices become available, YouTube will work with partners to enable streaming of the HDR version.”
Starting today, users can upload HDR videos to the service. However, the content is currently limited to the following channels.
“And if you want to watch some amazing content in HDR today, we got you covered. We’ve worked with YouTube creators like MysteryGuitarMan, Jacob + Katie Schwarz, and Abandon Visuals to bring you great content…”
The post ends on a high note for the future of this kind of content.
“HDR adds a whole new dimension of creative freedom and visual spectacle, and we’ve barely scratched the surface of what this means for storytelling. We can’t wait to see the amazing videos you’re going to make…”