Netflix Adds 'Super HD' Option for All Users and Additional Devices, Including 3rd Generation Apple TV

netflixInternet streaming service Netflix has announced today that it is rolling out its Super HD video quality to all Netflix members and additional devices, including the 3rd-generation Apple TV. The viewing option is of a higher quality than a standard 1080p image due to a higher bit rate stream and reduced compression, and was previously only available on select ISPs with a direct connection to Netflix.

All Netflix members, regardless of their Internet service provider (ISP), now have access to the highest quality HD streams available on Netflix.

This means that the great TV shows and movies on Netflix will look even better on HD screens with a higher bit rate stream, Super HD, that applies less compression to the 1080p image.

We initially rolled out Super HD in January only through ISPs with a direct connection to Netflix. Based on the performance data we’ve seen, and in response to member requests, we are now expanding availability to give all our members the ability to enjoy Netflix in the best possible quality. Netflix uses “adaptive streaming” to dynamically adjust the video quality based on the available bandwidth. This means that the ability to receive Super HD depends on broadband quality and performance. Netflix members who subscribe to an ISP with a direct Netflix connection will get the best experience.

Originally added with the introduction of the 2nd generation Apple TV, Netflix has been updated on Apple’s set-top box multiple times, including the addition of personalized profiles in August. The move also comes as Apple may be planning to release an updated Apple TV box next month, and comes after the addition of Major League Soccer and Disney Junior Channels to the set-top box today.

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Top Rated Comments

benji888 Avatar
151 months ago
OMG

So, now that they have finally have true HD they are calling it "Super" HD??? :confused::rolleyes::p

Let's confuse the consumer even more: HD, Ultra HD (4K), and now "Super" HD? ugh. :rolleyes:

So, I guess HD means it could be 720p or 1080i or 1080p, but, "Super" HD is 1080p? What the f?

Netflix: just give user settings for HD: 720p or 1080p. Keep it simple, don't do this complicated stupid stuff. :p
Score: 6 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Yvan256 Avatar
151 months ago
Meanwhile, in Canada

And to think Netflix had to add a LOWER quality setting for Canadians because our ISPs have stupidly low monthly caps. :rolleyes:
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
D.T. Avatar
151 months ago
We need the Apple TV 4K :D


(...and a TV to support it...)
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
arkmannj Avatar
151 months ago
This naming convention is only going to confuse consumers. (maybe thats what they want since it will be hard to sell "hey we'll give you 1080p... like the 1080p before but just better 1080p)

but with the naming, how many people call USB by "high speed USB", "Super USB", etc... no, we all say "USB 1, USB 1.1, USB 2, USB 3, etc...) because they mean something, and are easily recognizeable. Same with Firewire, we say Firewire 400, Firewire 800, etc...

With Image Quality maybe we should have the following:

- LD - Legacy (or Low) Deffinition (Standard Deffinition is no longer an appropriat term as what is "Standard is really in constant flux")

- Have the p for Progressive just be assumed, only add an "i" when it explicitly needs to be specified.

- Drop the "HD" as what is considered "High" is subjective, and will change over time. So maybe use something like "TV" as it will seem familure to sonsumers.

* LD480 (480i)
* LD576 (576i)

* TV480 (480p)
* TV720 (720p)

* TV1K (1080p)
* TV4k (2160p)
* TV8k (4320p)
* TVxK (where x=the new deffinition #)

These difinitions will mean more to people, especially going forward. Companies really should stop with the insane naming. (will I'm complaining about names, how about Intel's Xeon line..anyways)
Score: 4 Votes (Like | Disagree)
pdqgp Avatar
151 months ago
How about Netflix just focus on giving users some better content first.
Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)
gmanist1000 Avatar
151 months ago
Is there a setting on the Apple TV or Netflix.com that we have to change ?
How do we know if the movie is super HD

Check this out, it actually shows you when you select a title:

Score: 3 Votes (Like | Disagree)