Microsoft has announced that support for Dolby Vision video streaming is coming to Xbox One S and One X through an upcoming software update. It will work with Netflix at launch.
Update 17.7.2018: Microsoft now says that statements about Dolby Vision on UHD Blu-ray were wrong. The company has "nothing to share regarding disc compatibility at this time." Update 16.7.2018: CNET reports that Dolby Vision will also be added for UHD Blu-ray playback "this fall" on Xbox One X and One S.
Dolby Vision on Xbox One S/X
Xbox One S and Xbox One X already support HDR10 for video and gaming but users have been encouraging Microsoft to add support for the premium Dolby Vision format, too. The company has listened.
At launch, Dolby Vision will be supported only for video streaming – not gaming or UHD Blu-ray – and only with Netflix. Amazon and Vudu also offer content in Dolby Vision but are not supported at launch, according to Microsoft.
- ”Today we are excited to announce our latest entertainment option, Dolby Vision video streaming support across Xbox One S and Xbox One X! Dolby Vision enables select TVs to take HDR up a notch with scene-by-scene precision and accuracy versus standard HDR which uses one setting for the entire movie/show you are watching. If you have a TV that supports the latest version of Dolby Vision and a Premium Netflix subscription jump in and experience Dolby Vision for yourself in the coming weeks!,” Microsoft announced.
Dolby Vision uses dynamic metadata to optimize HDR picture quality on scene-by-scene or frame-by-frame basis. HDR in general is a major step forward in picture quality as significantly expands the luminance and color range compared to previous SDR video (Standard Dynamic Range). This allows for more realistic and punchy images.
Dolby Vision previously required dedicated silicon but the company has developed a software implementation, which appears to be what is coming to Xbox One. To enjoy Dolby Vision, your TV must also support the system. Such TVs include LG OLED and LCD TVs, Loewe OLED TVs, Sony OLED and LCD TVs, Vizio LCD TVs, and others.
Xbox One also supports Dolby’s object-based audio format Dolby Atmos.
Dolby Vision video support is coming first to Xbox One owners that are part of the Insiders Preview program. Look for system update 1810 that will roll out in the coming weeks.
