Posted Mon Feb 27, 2017 at 09:15 AM PST by Steven Cohen
Software updates could bring Dolby Vision to even more devices.
According to a report from Forbes, Dolby has developed a new software implementation of its Dolby Vision HDR format. Previously, the technology could only be implemented on devices with special hardware built in, but now Dolby Vision support can be added via a pure software solution on products with enough power to run it.
The Dolby Vision process combines scene-by-scene high dynamic range mastering and an expanded color palette to produce enhanced brightness and contrast along with more life-like colors. The format is integrated into several existing and upcoming Ultra HD TV models from VIZIO, LeEco, TCL, Sony, Hisense, Philips, and LG, including LG's newly announced 2017 OLED lineup and 2017 SUPER UHD TV lineup. And with Dolby's new software solution, Dolby Vision is now capable of being added to even more devices -- including new and existing set-top boxes, streaming players, game consoles, and TVs -- as long as the product has enough power to process it. In addition, unlike the HDR10 format, Dolby Vision can run through older HDMI 1.4 connections and does not require an HDMI 2.0a device. With that said, copy protected content will still need HDCP 2.2 compliancy.
Products set to receive Dolby Vision firmware updates include the Oppo UDP-203 Ultra HD Blu-ray player and Sony's Z9D Series Ultra HD TVs. Likewise, the upcoming LG UP970 and Philips BDP7502 Ultra HD Blu-ray players are also set to receive updates with the tech. Additional devices have not been confirmed yet. Dolby Vision content is currently available through various streaming and digital services, including Netflix and VUDU. Likewise, Lionsgate, Universal, and Warner Bros. have announced plans to release Dolby Vision Ultra HD Blu-ray titles.
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