Consumer Rights Wiki - User contributions [en]

Netflix stream-quality controversy

2025-07-16T03:41:39Z

Saoirse: Minutely expanded lead.

The '''Netflix stream-quality controversy''' involves [[Netflix]]'s advertising of {{Wplink|4K resolution}} for its {{Wplink|Streaming television|streaming service}} while also not adequately disclosing the conditions and restrictions. Too, it covers their refusal to license 4K content, even when available on other platforms.

==4K plan doesn't provide a 4K resolution stream==


Netflix imposes restrictions on accessing 4K streaming without fully disclosing the conditions under which these restrictions apply; all prerequisites for receiving a 4K stream are not listed in the terms of use,<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |author=[[Netflix]] |title=Netflix Terms of Use |website=Netflix Help Center |url=https://help.netflix.com/legal/termsofuse |date=2024-01-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125032601/https://help.netflix.com/legal/termsofuse |archive-date=2024-01-25 |df=mdy-all}}</ref> terms & conditions,<ref>{{Cite web |author=[[Netflix]] |title=Netflix Shop – Terms & Conditions |website=Netflix Shop |url=https://www.netflix.shop/pages/terms-conditions |date=2023-06-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231128223343/https://www.netflix.shop/pages/terms-conditions |archive-date=2023-11-28 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> or help page.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=How to get the best video quality |url=https://help.netflix.com/en/node/13444 |author=[[Netflix]] |website=Netlix Help Center |date=n.d.}}</ref> When new users sign up, Netflix defaults them to the 4K premium plan, without clearly informing them of the intentional limitations on accessing 4K content.<ref>[[:File:Netflix signup page- choose plan bottom of page.png]]</ref>

Netflix, in their [https://help.netflix.com/legal/termsofuse Terms of Service] (TOS), lists reasons why the quality of its content may vary from different devices, as stated in clause 4.7:<blockquote>The quality of the display of the Netflix content may vary from device to device, and may be affected by a variety of factors, such as your location, the bandwidth available through and/or speed of your Internet connection.</blockquote>One of the factors not listed is the use of [https://developers.google.com/widevine/drm/overview Widevine], a [[DRM|Digital Rights Management]] (DRM) software which is embedded into most web browsers such as Chrome, Chromium, Electron (CEF), Firefox, Edge, Opera, Safari, etc. DRM technology prevents screen capture of media hosted on Netflix. One method, such as 'SECURE_DECODE,' utilizes Widevine to decode each displayed frame. However, this process consumes more bandwidth. To compensate, Netflix lowers the streaming resolution to 720p in web browsers.

Currently, Netflix offers 1080p video resolution on every plan on their [https://help.netflix.com/en/node/24926 Plans and Pricing] for a subscription. Consumers who watch Netflix on web browsers will be paying for 1080p resolution while only receiving 720p resolution maximum due to DRM. The TOS allows Netflix to claim the user's device faulty or the user's internet speed slow to justify this behavior.[[File:Netflix signup page- choose plan bottom of page.png|alt=Netflix signup page: plan choice, bottom of page.|thumb|Netflix signup page: plan choice, bottom of page.]]
[[File:Netflix terms of service covering streaming quality.png|alt=Netflix terms of service covering streaming quality|thumb|Netflix terms of service covering streaming quality]]

The existence of these limitations is only disclosed in small font at the bottom of the page where users select a plan. The 4K HDR option, which is set as the default, features an eye-catching icon with vibrant colors designed to draw attention to this more expensive choice. Meanwhile, users must scroll to the bottom of the page to find a link to a document explaining the limitations.<ref name=":3" />

==Terms of Service analysis==

Currently, Netflix advertises 1080p video resolution on all plans listed in their [https://help.netflix.com/en/node/24926 Plans and Pricing] section. However, consumers watching Netflix on web browsers pay for 1080p resolution but are limited to a maximum of 720p due to DRM restrictions.<ref>[[:File:Netflix terms of service covering streaming quality.png]]</ref><ref name=":3" />

Netflix's Terms of Service (TOS) outlines important details regarding video-quality limitations in Section 4.7, which states:

<blockquote>4.7. The quality of the display of the Netflix content may vary from device to device, and may be affected by a variety of factors, such as your location, the bandwidth available through and/or speed of your Internet connection. HD, Ultra HD and HDR availability is subject to your Internet service and device capabilities. Not all content is available in all formats, such as HD, Ultra HD or HDR and not all plans allow you to receive content in all formats. The minimum connection speed for HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 720p or higher) is 3.0 Mbps per stream; however, we recommend a faster connection for improved video quality. A connection speed of at least 5.0 Mbps per stream is recommended to receive Full HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 1080p or higher). A connection speed of at least 15.0 Mbps per stream is recommended to receive Ultra HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 4K or higher). You are responsible for all Internet access charges. Please check with your Internet provider for information on possible Internet data usage charges. Netflix makes no representations or warranties about the quality of your watching experience on your display. The time it takes to begin watching Netflix content will vary based on a number of factors, including your location, available bandwidth at the time, the Netflix content you have selected and the configuration of your Netflix ready device.</blockquote>

==Streaming requirements and lack of disclosure==

===Complete list of requirements===

*'''Netflix Premium plan''': Subscription to the Premium Plan.
*'''Device compatibility''': Devices must support 4K playback and be Netflix-certified.
*'''Processor''': An Intel 7th generation Core CPU or newer with Intel SGX enabled, or an AMD Ryzen CPU.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=How to use Netflix on your Windows computer or tablet |url=https://help.netflix.com/en/node/23931 |author=[[Netflix]] |website=Netflix Help Center |date=n.d.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Netflix requirements to watch 4k that you paid for |author=((Rikki1256)) |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Piracy/comments/189odn6/netflix_requirements_to_watch_4k_that_you_paid_for/ |date=2023-12-03 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231203165545/https://old.reddit.com/r/Piracy/comments/189odn6/netflix_requirements_to_watch_4k_that_you_paid_for/ |archive-date=2023-12-03 |website=[[Reddit]] |type=Online forum post |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
*'''GPU''': Nvidia GeForce GPU 1050 or newer, AMD Radeon RX 400 series or newer GPU.<ref name=":1" />
*'''Display requirements''': A screen with a resolution of at least 3840x2160 and HDCP 2.2-compliant HDMI ports (for external displays).
*'''DRM support''': Hardware-based DRM like Widevine L1, PlayReady v3.0 SL3000, or FairPlay is required.
*'''HEVC codec support''': Devices must support hardware decoding of the HEVC (H.265) codec for 4K playback.
*'''Internet speed''': A stable internet connection of at least 15 Mbps.
*'''Operating system''': Supported OS versions, e.g., Windows 10/11, macOS (Safari), and specific Android/iOS versions.
*'''Browser and app compatibility''': Certain browsers (e.g., Microsoft Edge, Safari) and official Netflix apps are required.
*'''Updated firmware and software''': Devices must run the latest firmware or software, NVIDIA Driver version 387.96 or newer.<ref>{{Cite web |title=4K UHD Netflix content on NVIDIA GPUs |author=[[Nvidia]] |url=https://nvidia.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/4583/~/4k-uhd-netflix-content-on-nvidia-gpus |date=2021-09-29 |website=Nvidia Support |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
*'''Title availability''': Not all titles are available in 4K; the content must be marked as 4K or UHD.

===Requirements that Netflix does disclose===

*'''Subscription plan''': The need for the Premium Plan for 4K content.
*'''Internet speed''': The recommendation of 15 Mbps for 4K streaming.
*'''Device compatibility''': Ensuring all devices in the setup support 4K video playback.
*'''Browser and app compatibility''': Mention that Microsoft Edge (version 118 or later) or the official Netflix app is required to stream 4K content on Windows-based platforms. Likewise, mention that Safari (version 12 or later) is required for 4K playback on Macs (there’s no Netflix app for macOS).<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Netflix supported browsers and system requirements |url=https://help.netflix.com/en/node/30081 |date=n.d. |author=[[Netflix]] |website=Netflix Help Center}}</ref>
*'''Display requirements''': Mention of HDCP 2.2-compliant HDMI ports and display resolution for external devices.
*'''Account settings''': Instructions to set playback settings to High or Auto for 4K.
*'''Title verification''': Guidelines on identifying titles that support 4K or HDR.
*'''Mobile-device limitations''': It mentions HDR might not stream on mobile devices in low power mode. It also addresses limitations like Widevine DRM levels.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to use Netflix on your Android phone or tablet |url=https://help.netflix.com/en/node/23939 |date=n.d. |author=[[Netflix]] |website=Netflix Help Center}}</ref>

===Requirements that Netflix does not disclose===

*'''DRM requirements''': No explicit mention of the need for Widevine L1, PlayReady v3.0 SL3000, or FairPlay DRM.
*'''Codec support''': The necessity of HEVC (H.265) support is not detailed.
*'''Processor and GPU capabilities''': The requirement for devices with processors and GPUs capable of hardware decoding HEVC efficiently is not mentioned.
*'''Firmware updates''': While it suggests keeping devices updated, there is no detail on the necessity for specific firmware versions for 4K, only for Nvidia drivers.

==4K content isn't available on the platform even when it exists==
Netflix routinely licenses HD content even though 4K HDR is readily available, including for blockbuster movies{{Citation needed}}<ref>{{Cite web |author=((And_You_Like_It_Too)) |title=How much licensed content does Netflix display in premium formats (4K, HDR/Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos) in the 4K tier? |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/netflix/comments/18k554z/how_much_licensed_content_does_netflix_display_in/ |date=2023-12-17 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250711211159/https://old.reddit.com/r/netflix/comments/18k554z/how_much_licensed_content_does_netflix_display_in/ |archive-date=2025-07-11 |website=[[Reddit]] |df=mdy-all}}</ref>. This isn't advertised anywhere.{{Citation needed}}

For example: Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is HD only on Netflix,{{Citation needed}} whereas it’s clearly available in UHD on other platforms,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Watch Transformers: Rise of the Beasts |url=https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Rise-Beasts-Anthony-Ramos/dp/B0BX1MWKHY |date=n.d. |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250509201425/https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Rise-Beasts-Anthony-Ramos/dp/B0BX1MWKHY |archive-date=2025-05-09 |access-date=2025-07-11 |website=[[Amazon#Amazon_Prime_(2005–Present)|Amazon Prime Video]] |df=mdy-all}}</ref> or Blu-ray.<ref>{{Cite web |title=<nowiki>Transformers: Rise of the Beasts [4K UHD]</nowiki> |url=https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Rise-Beasts-4K-UHD/dp/B0C5P5K55N |date=n.d. |access-date=2025-07-11 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250120130137/https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Rise-Beasts-4K-UHD/dp/B0C5P5K55N |archive-date=2025-01-20 |website=[[Amazon]] |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
[[File:Netflix not providing 4k even if it exist2.png|thumb]]
Another movie is [[wikipedia:Jurassic_World:_Fallen_Kingdom|Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom]]. To the right is a somewhat scribbled flowchart I made that visually demonstrates how Netflix doesn't even return 720p through a paid Netflix 4K premium plan. This is on a device with excellent hardware and a fast, stable internet connection, and a movie which certainly exists in a higher resolution.

Source linking from different statements from the picture, and links from within the wikipedia pages (and more).

====Camera used in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom and final mastering resolution used in professional production in 2017====
The movie was shot with [[wikipedia:Arri_Alexa#Alexa_65|Arri Alexa 65]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sciretta |first=Peter |date=2018-04-24 |title='Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom' Director J.A. Bayona On Bringing Suspense Back To The Franchise [Set Visit Interview] |url=https://www.slashfilm.com/557725/j-a-bayona-interview/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250222000228/https://www.slashfilm.com/557725/j-a-bayona-interview/ |archive-date=2025-02-22 |access-date=2025-03-22 |website=SlashFilm |df=mdy-all}}</ref> capable of a maximum recording resolution of 6560 x 3100, with these sensor crop modes:

* 1.78 Crop Mode: 5120 x 2880

* 1.50 Crop Mode: 4320 x 2880

* LF Open Gate: 4448 x 3096

* 4K UHD: 3840 x 2160<ref>{{Cite web |title=Alexa 65 |url=https://www.arrirental.com/en/cameras/digital-65-mm-cameras/alexa-65 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250619202126/https://www.arrirental.com/en/cameras/digital-65-mm-cameras/alexa-65 |archive-date=2025-06-19 |access-date=2025-03-22 |website=ArriRental |df=mdy-all}}</ref>

That they would shoot a movie in UHD resolution with a camera worth 150-200k USD and downsize it to 960x540 (similar to some DVD format and even VHS we had back in the 2000's) during post processing in 2018 is extremely unlikely and illogical.

Here is an interview with a professional in 2017 (not working on Jurassic world: Fallen Kingdom) talking about why it is common to film in ultra high resolution and downscale. Note that he never mentioned any lower resolution than 1080p:<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shapton |first=David |date=2017-06-17 |title=Working with resolutions above 4K: We interview renowned cinematographer Shane Hurlbut, ASC |url=https://www.redsharknews.com/production/item/3626-working-with-resolutions-above-4k-we-interview-renowned-cinematographer-shane-hurlbut |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250403225158/https://www.redsharknews.com/production/item/3626-working-with-resolutions-above-4k-we-interview-renowned-cinematographer-shane-hurlbut |archive-date=2025-04-03 |access-date=2025-03-22 |website=RedShark |df=mdy-all}}</ref>

<blockquote>From a technical side, sure, we can "future proof" the quality by mastering in 4K UHD and releasing in 1080p today only to re-release our films in 4K UHD years later without having to scale the resolution where we lose quality over the image.</blockquote>

An additional take from the same interview which is a bit relevant because Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom uses alot of VFX:

<blockquote>In some projects, we're starting to bring in a lot more VFX, so having the added resolution makes a big difference with our VFX team, giving them a larger canvas to work with.</blockquote>

An entertainment journalism website announced the different home release versions of the movie in 2018:<ref>{{Cite web |last=Foutch |first=Haleigh |date=2018-07-24|title='Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom' Blu-ray Release Date & Features Revealed |url=https://collider.com/jurassic-world-fallen-kingdom-blu-ray-release-date-features/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250529062557/https://collider.com/jurassic-world-fallen-kingdom-blu-ray-release-date-features/ |archive-date=2025-05-29 |website=[[Wikipedia:Collider (website)|Collider]] |df=mdy-all}}</ref>

<blockquote>''Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom'' arrives on Digital and via the digital movie app MOVIES ANYWHERE on September 4, 2018, as well as on 4K Ultra HD, 3D Blu-ray™, Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand on September 18, 2018, Additionally, Universal is dropping a ''Jurassic'' five-film collection on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray™ and DVD on September 18, 2018</blockquote>

====Additional proof that there exist high-resolution versions of the movie====
Forbes review: "Fallen Kingdom is a gorgeous, mostly enjoyable blockbuster that looked great in IMAX."[https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2018/06/06/review-jurassic-world-fallen-kingdom-finally-escapes-the-island/]

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom 4K review [https://www.avforums.com/reviews/jurassic-world-fallen-kingdom-4k-blu-ray-review.15524/]

Another Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom 4K review:[https://www.highdefwatch.com/post/4k-delivers-great-picture-and-sound-in-jurassic-world-fallen-kingdom]

More sources that show/sell high resolution versions of the movie [https://www.blu-ray.com/movies/Jurassic-World-Fallen-Kingdom-4K-Blu-ray/206399/][https://ultrahd.highdefdigest.com/60793/jurassicworldfallenkingdom4kultrahdbluray.html]

A "making of the film" video on youtube, on a channel owned by Universal Pictures themselves, and they state in the description of the video "Own it on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD & Digital Now"[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4zXawfBi1o&ab_channel=UniversalPicturesAll-Access]

You can rent the video on youtube in 1080p.[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ETePG9F6Zk&ab_channel=YouTubeMovies]
[[File:Jurassic world Fallen Kingdom High-res preview at youtube.png|thumb]]
(I added another picture where I show that the feed on youtube IS in fact 1080p, and it also shows that my connection speed is 55004 Kbps or around 55 Mbps, buffring the video to 37.81s took a handful of seconds. This is more proof to show that my connection speed is not part of the issue.)
==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Netflix]]

Talk:Netflix stream-quality controversy

2025-07-16T03:37:46Z

Saoirse: Added unsigned note for Keith's comment.

== Revision overwritten ==

Hi [[User:JamesDwho|@JamesDwho]], I think 162.220.83.172 might have accidentally overidden your link formatting change. I'm not quite sure how to fix without damaging later edits, so thought I'd let you know!
--Preceding unsigned comment added by [[User:Keith|Keith]] ([[User talk:Keith|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Keith|contributions]]) 20:18, 17 January 2025

User:Saoirse

2025-07-11T23:01:27Z

Saoirse: Init.

=Welcome!=
Not much here yet (will there ever be?) but this is my [[Wikipedia:WP:UP|user page]]!<br/>
Here's the list of [[Special:Contributions/Saoirse|my contributions]].
===Wanna complain about an edit I've made?===
Shoot me an [[Special:EmailUser/Saoirse|email]] if you want to tell me! (Or add it to my [[User talk:Saoirse|talk page]] if you want it public!)

Ta 'n' ta ra, -- [[User:Saoirse|Saoirse]] ([[User talk:Saoirse|talk]]) 23:01, 11 July 2025 (UTC)

Netflix stream-quality controversy

2025-07-11T22:45:46Z

Saoirse: Converted a number of plain-text citations to CS1; standardised date format to MDY (annoyingly this wiki doesn't seem to have {{Use mdy dates}}); did a little bit of formatting. CS1 maint can be ignored.

=4K plan doesn't provide a 4K resolution stream=


Netflix imposes restrictions on accessing 4K streaming without fully disclosing the conditions under which these restrictions apply; all prerequisites for receiving a 4K stream are not listed in the terms of use,<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |author=[[Netflix]] |title=Netflix Terms of Use |website=Netflix Help Center |url=https://help.netflix.com/legal/termsofuse |date=2024-01-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125032601/https://help.netflix.com/legal/termsofuse |archive-date=2024-01-25 |df=mdy-all}}</ref> terms & conditions,<ref>{{Cite web |author=[[Netflix]] |title=Netflix Shop – Terms & Conditions |website=Netflix Shop |url=https://www.netflix.shop/pages/terms-conditions |date=2023-06-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231128223343/https://www.netflix.shop/pages/terms-conditions |archive-date=2023-11-28 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> or help page.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=How to get the best video quality |url=https://help.netflix.com/en/node/13444 |author=[[Netflix]] |website=Netlix Help Center |date=n.d.}}</ref> When new users sign up, Netflix defaults them to the 4K premium plan, without clearly informing them of the intentional limitations on accessing 4K content.<ref>[[:File:Netflix signup page- choose plan bottom of page.png]]</ref>

Netflix, in their [https://help.netflix.com/legal/termsofuse Terms of Service] (TOS), lists reasons why the quality of its content may vary from different devices, as stated in clause 4.7:<blockquote>The quality of the display of the Netflix content may vary from device to device, and may be affected by a variety of factors, such as your location, the bandwidth available through and/or speed of your Internet connection.</blockquote>One of the factors not listed is the use of [https://developers.google.com/widevine/drm/overview Widevine], a [[DRM|Digital Rights Management]] (DRM) software which is embedded into most web browsers such as Chrome, Chromium, Electron (CEF), Firefox, Edge, Opera, Safari, etc. DRM technology prevents screen capture of media hosted on Netflix. One method, such as 'SECURE_DECODE,' utilizes Widevine to decode each displayed frame. However, this process consumes more bandwidth. To compensate, Netflix lowers the streaming resolution to 720p in web browsers.

Currently, Netflix offers 1080p video resolution on every plan on their [https://help.netflix.com/en/node/24926 Plans and Pricing] for a subscription. Consumers who watch Netflix on web browsers will be paying for 1080p resolution while only receiving 720p resolution maximum due to DRM. The TOS allows Netflix to claim the user's device faulty or the user's internet speed slow to justify this behavior.[[File:Netflix signup page- choose plan bottom of page.png|alt=Netflix signup page: plan choice, bottom of page.|thumb|Netflix signup page: plan choice, bottom of page.]]
[[File:Netflix terms of service covering streaming quality.png|alt=Netflix terms of service covering streaming quality|thumb|Netflix terms of service covering streaming quality]]

The existence of these limitations is only disclosed in small font at the bottom of the page where users select a plan. The 4K HDR option, which is set as the default, features an eye-catching icon with vibrant colors designed to draw attention to this more expensive choice. Meanwhile, users must scroll to the bottom of the page to find a link to a document explaining the limitations.<ref name=":3" />

==Terms of Service analysis==

Currently, Netflix advertises 1080p video resolution on all plans listed in their [https://help.netflix.com/en/node/24926 Plans and Pricing] section. However, consumers watching Netflix on web browsers pay for 1080p resolution but are limited to a maximum of 720p due to DRM restrictions.<ref>[[:File:Netflix terms of service covering streaming quality.png]]</ref><ref name=":3" />

Netflix's Terms of Service (TOS) outlines important details regarding video-quality limitations in Section 4.7, which states:

<blockquote>4.7. The quality of the display of the Netflix content may vary from device to device, and may be affected by a variety of factors, such as your location, the bandwidth available through and/or speed of your Internet connection. HD, Ultra HD and HDR availability is subject to your Internet service and device capabilities. Not all content is available in all formats, such as HD, Ultra HD or HDR and not all plans allow you to receive content in all formats. The minimum connection speed for HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 720p or higher) is 3.0 Mbps per stream; however, we recommend a faster connection for improved video quality. A connection speed of at least 5.0 Mbps per stream is recommended to receive Full HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 1080p or higher). A connection speed of at least 15.0 Mbps per stream is recommended to receive Ultra HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 4K or higher). You are responsible for all Internet access charges. Please check with your Internet provider for information on possible Internet data usage charges. Netflix makes no representations or warranties about the quality of your watching experience on your display. The time it takes to begin watching Netflix content will vary based on a number of factors, including your location, available bandwidth at the time, the Netflix content you have selected and the configuration of your Netflix ready device.</blockquote>

==Streaming requirements and lack of disclosure==

===Complete list of requirements===

*'''Netflix Premium plan''': Subscription to the Premium Plan.
*'''Device compatibility''': Devices must support 4K playback and be Netflix-certified.
*'''Processor''': An Intel 7th generation Core CPU or newer with Intel SGX enabled, or an AMD Ryzen CPU.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=How to use Netflix on your Windows computer or tablet |url=https://help.netflix.com/en/node/23931 |author=[[Netflix]] |website=Netflix Help Center |date=n.d.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Netflix requirements to watch 4k that you paid for |author=((Rikki1256)) |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/Piracy/comments/189odn6/netflix_requirements_to_watch_4k_that_you_paid_for/ |date=2023-12-03 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231203165545/https://old.reddit.com/r/Piracy/comments/189odn6/netflix_requirements_to_watch_4k_that_you_paid_for/ |archive-date=2023-12-03 |website=[[Reddit]] |type=Online forum post |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
*'''GPU''': Nvidia GeForce GPU 1050 or newer, AMD Radeon RX 400 series or newer GPU.<ref name=":1" />
*'''Display requirements''': A screen with a resolution of at least 3840x2160 and HDCP 2.2-compliant HDMI ports (for external displays).
*'''DRM support''': Hardware-based DRM like Widevine L1, PlayReady v3.0 SL3000, or FairPlay is required.
*'''HEVC codec support''': Devices must support hardware decoding of the HEVC (H.265) codec for 4K playback.
*'''Internet speed''': A stable internet connection of at least 15 Mbps.
*'''Operating system''': Supported OS versions, e.g., Windows 10/11, macOS (Safari), and specific Android/iOS versions.
*'''Browser and app compatibility''': Certain browsers (e.g., Microsoft Edge, Safari) and official Netflix apps are required.
*'''Updated firmware and software''': Devices must run the latest firmware or software, NVIDIA Driver version 387.96 or newer.<ref>{{Cite web |title=4K UHD Netflix content on NVIDIA GPUs |author=[[Nvidia]] |url=https://nvidia.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/4583/~/4k-uhd-netflix-content-on-nvidia-gpus |date=2021-09-29 |website=Nvidia Support |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
*'''Title availability''': Not all titles are available in 4K; the content must be marked as 4K or UHD.

===Requirements that Netflix does disclose===

*'''Subscription plan''': The need for the Premium Plan for 4K content.
*'''Internet speed''': The recommendation of 15 Mbps for 4K streaming.
*'''Device compatibility''': Ensuring all devices in the setup support 4K video playback.
*'''Browser and app compatibility''': Mention that Microsoft Edge (version 118 or later) or the official Netflix app is required to stream 4K content on Windows-based platforms. Likewise, mention that Safari (version 12 or later) is required for 4K playback on Macs (there’s no Netflix app for macOS).<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Netflix supported browsers and system requirements |url=https://help.netflix.com/en/node/30081 |date=n.d. |author=[[Netflix]] |website=Netflix Help Center}}</ref>
*'''Display requirements''': Mention of HDCP 2.2-compliant HDMI ports and display resolution for external devices.
*'''Account settings''': Instructions to set playback settings to High or Auto for 4K.
*'''Title verification''': Guidelines on identifying titles that support 4K or HDR.
*'''Mobile-device limitations''': It mentions HDR might not stream on mobile devices in low power mode. It also addresses limitations like Widevine DRM levels.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to use Netflix on your Android phone or tablet |url=https://help.netflix.com/en/node/23939 |date=n.d. |author=[[Netflix]] |website=Netflix Help Center}}</ref>

===Requirements that Netflix does not disclose===

*'''DRM requirements''': No explicit mention of the need for Widevine L1, PlayReady v3.0 SL3000, or FairPlay DRM.
*'''Codec support''': The necessity of HEVC (H.265) support is not detailed.
*'''Processor and GPU capabilities''': The requirement for devices with processors and GPUs capable of hardware decoding HEVC efficiently is not mentioned.
*'''Firmware updates''': While it suggests keeping devices updated, there is no detail on the necessity for specific firmware versions for 4K, only for Nvidia drivers.

==4K content isn't available on the platform even when it exists==
Netflix routinely licenses HD content even though 4K HDR is readily available, including for blockbuster movies{{Citation needed}}<ref>{{Cite web |author=((And_You_Like_It_Too)) |title=How much licensed content does Netflix display in premium formats (4K, HDR/Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos) in the 4K tier? |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/netflix/comments/18k554z/how_much_licensed_content_does_netflix_display_in/ |date=2023-12-17 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250711211159/https://old.reddit.com/r/netflix/comments/18k554z/how_much_licensed_content_does_netflix_display_in/ |archive-date=2025-07-11 |website=[[Reddit]] |df=mdy-all}}</ref>. This isn't advertised anywhere.{{Citation needed}}

For example: Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is HD only on Netflix,{{Citation needed}} whereas it’s clearly available in UHD on other platforms,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Watch Transformers: Rise of the Beasts |url=https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Rise-Beasts-Anthony-Ramos/dp/B0BX1MWKHY |date=n.d. |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250509201425/https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Rise-Beasts-Anthony-Ramos/dp/B0BX1MWKHY |archive-date=2025-05-09 |access-date=2025-07-11 |website=[[Amazon#Amazon_Prime_(2005–Present)|Amazon Prime Video]] |df=mdy-all}}</ref> or Blu-ray.<ref>{{Cite web |title=<nowiki>Transformers: Rise of the Beasts [4K UHD]</nowiki> |url=https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Rise-Beasts-4K-UHD/dp/B0C5P5K55N |date=n.d. |access-date=2025-07-11 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250120130137/https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Rise-Beasts-4K-UHD/dp/B0C5P5K55N |archive-date=2025-01-20 |website=[[Amazon]] |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
[[File:Netflix not providing 4k even if it exist2.png|thumb]]
Another movie is [[wikipedia:Jurassic_World:_Fallen_Kingdom|Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom]]. To the right is a somewhat scribbled flowchart I made that visually demonstrates how Netflix doesn't even return 720p through a paid Netflix 4K premium plan. This is on a device with excellent hardware and a fast, stable internet connection, and a movie which certainly exists in a higher resolution.

Source linking from different statements from the picture, and links from within the wikipedia pages (and more).

====Camera used in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom and final mastering resolution used in professional production in 2017====
The movie was shot with [[wikipedia:Arri_Alexa#Alexa_65|Arri Alexa 65]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sciretta |first=Peter |date=2018-04-24 |title='Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom' Director J.A. Bayona On Bringing Suspense Back To The Franchise [Set Visit Interview] |url=https://www.slashfilm.com/557725/j-a-bayona-interview/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250222000228/https://www.slashfilm.com/557725/j-a-bayona-interview/ |archive-date=2025-02-22 |access-date=2025-03-22 |website=SlashFilm |df=mdy-all}}</ref> capable of a maximum recording resolution of 6560 x 3100, with these sensor crop modes:

* 1.78 Crop Mode: 5120 x 2880

* 1.50 Crop Mode: 4320 x 2880

* LF Open Gate: 4448 x 3096

* 4K UHD: 3840 x 2160<ref>{{Cite web |title=Alexa 65 |url=https://www.arrirental.com/en/cameras/digital-65-mm-cameras/alexa-65 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250619202126/https://www.arrirental.com/en/cameras/digital-65-mm-cameras/alexa-65 |archive-date=2025-06-19 |access-date=2025-03-22 |website=ArriRental |df=mdy-all}}</ref>

That they would shoot a movie in UHD resolution with a camera worth 150-200k USD and downsize it to 960x540 (similar to some DVD format and even VHS we had back in the 2000's) during post processing in 2018 is extremely unlikely and illogical.

Here is an interview with a professional in 2017 (not working on Jurassic world: Fallen Kingdom) talking about why it is common to film in ultra high resolution and downscale. Note that he never mentioned any lower resolution than 1080p:<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shapton |first=David |date=2017-06-17 |title=Working with resolutions above 4K: We interview renowned cinematographer Shane Hurlbut, ASC |url=https://www.redsharknews.com/production/item/3626-working-with-resolutions-above-4k-we-interview-renowned-cinematographer-shane-hurlbut |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250403225158/https://www.redsharknews.com/production/item/3626-working-with-resolutions-above-4k-we-interview-renowned-cinematographer-shane-hurlbut |archive-date=2025-04-03 |access-date=2025-03-22 |website=RedShark |df=mdy-all}}</ref>

<blockquote>From a technical side, sure, we can "future proof" the quality by mastering in 4K UHD and releasing in 1080p today only to re-release our films in 4K UHD years later without having to scale the resolution where we lose quality over the image.</blockquote>

An additional take from the same interview which is a bit relevant because Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom uses alot of VFX:

<blockquote>In some projects, we're starting to bring in a lot more VFX, so having the added resolution makes a big difference with our VFX team, giving them a larger canvas to work with.</blockquote>

An entertainment journalism website announced the different home release versions of the movie in 2018:<ref>{{Cite web |last=Foutch |first=Haleigh |date=2018-07-24|title='Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom' Blu-ray Release Date & Features Revealed |url=https://collider.com/jurassic-world-fallen-kingdom-blu-ray-release-date-features/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250529062557/https://collider.com/jurassic-world-fallen-kingdom-blu-ray-release-date-features/ |archive-date=2025-05-29 |website=[[Wikipedia:Collider (website)|Collider]] |df=mdy-all}}</ref>

<blockquote>''Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom'' arrives on Digital and via the digital movie app MOVIES ANYWHERE on September 4, 2018, as well as on 4K Ultra HD, 3D Blu-ray™, Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand on September 18, 2018, Additionally, Universal is dropping a ''Jurassic'' five-film collection on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray™ and DVD on September 18, 2018</blockquote>

====Additional proof that there exist high-resolution versions of the movie====
Forbes review: "Fallen Kingdom is a gorgeous, mostly enjoyable blockbuster that looked great in IMAX."[https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottmendelson/2018/06/06/review-jurassic-world-fallen-kingdom-finally-escapes-the-island/]

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom 4K review [https://www.avforums.com/reviews/jurassic-world-fallen-kingdom-4k-blu-ray-review.15524/]

Another Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom 4K review:[https://www.highdefwatch.com/post/4k-delivers-great-picture-and-sound-in-jurassic-world-fallen-kingdom]

More sources that show/sell high resolution versions of the movie [https://www.blu-ray.com/movies/Jurassic-World-Fallen-Kingdom-4K-Blu-ray/206399/][https://ultrahd.highdefdigest.com/60793/jurassicworldfallenkingdom4kultrahdbluray.html]

A "making of the film" video on youtube, on a channel owned by Universal Pictures themselves, and they state in the description of the video "Own it on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD & Digital Now"[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4zXawfBi1o&ab_channel=UniversalPicturesAll-Access]

You can rent the video on youtube in 1080p.[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ETePG9F6Zk&ab_channel=YouTubeMovies]
[[File:Jurassic world Fallen Kingdom High-res preview at youtube.png|thumb]]
(I added another picture where I show that the feed on youtube IS in fact 1080p, and it also shows that my connection speed is 55004 Kbps or around 55 Mbps, buffring the video to 37.81s took a handful of seconds. This is more proof to show that my connection speed is not part of the issue.)
==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Netflix]]

Amazon

2025-07-11T22:26:49Z

Saoirse: /* Products */ Removed spaces in date ranges in headings.

{{InfoboxCompany
| Name = Amazon
| Type = Public
| Founded = 1994
| Industry = Technology
| Official Website = https://amazon.com/
| Logo = Amazon.png
}}

[[wikipedia:Amazon_(company)|'''Amazon.com, Inc.''']] is a global leader in e-commerce, cloud computing, and digital streaming, founded in 1994 by Jeff Bezos. Originally launched as an online bookstore, Amazon quickly expanded into a marketplace offering a wide range of products, including electronics, clothing, household goods, and groceries. Today, it is one of the largest companies in the world, with a dominant presence in retail, technology, and logistics.

In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon is a major player in cloud computing through Amazon Web Services (AWS), which provides cloud infrastructure and services to businesses globally. The company also offers a variety of digital services, such as Amazon Prime, which provides streaming video and music, and Alexa, its voice-activated virtual assistant. Amazon has also developed consumer products like the Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, and Echo smart speakers.

Amazon has faced significant scrutiny and criticism, particularly concerning its treatment of workers, marketplace practices, data privacy issues, and its impact on small businesses. It has been involved in various regulatory and legal challenges related to anti-competitive behavior, safety, and consumer protection, with calls for increased oversight on its business operations.

==Consumer impact summary==
{{Placeholder box|Overview of concerns that arise from the company's conduct regarding (if applicable):
* User Freedom
* User Privacy
* Business Model
* Market Control}}

====Business Model====
Amazon gets a majority of its revenue from seller fees and Amazon prime memberships. In addition, Amazon has a "subscribe and save" option for some products. With this, the page to manage these subscriptions is obfuscated for the user, intentional or not.

<gallery>
File:Amazon Subscribe and Save Example.jpg|No "subscribe and save" option avaliable
File:Amazon Subscribe and Save Example (1).jpg|The option appears in the "buy again" section.
</gallery>

==Controversies==
Amazon has been involved in numerous controversies, from dangerous products to anti-competitive practices. Below is a comprehensive listing of every relevant controversy documented here on this wiki: 
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+
!Controversy
!Year
!Background info
!Aftermath
!Related article
!Related video(s)
|-
|Amazon removing ability to download Kindle books
|2025
|Starting on February 26, 2025, Amazon removed a feature from its website allowing users to download purchased books to a computer and then copy them manually to a Kindle over USB.
|Starting February 26, 2025, the ‘Download & Transfer via USB’ option will no longer be available.
|[[Amazon Kindle removes download feature of purchased books]]
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMoCzeGnIss '''Amazon are changing the way you own your Kindle books - you have 10 days to react''']
<ref group="Video References">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfcoUdWCB9M</ref>
|-
|Amazon sells lethal litterboxes
|2024
|Amazon sold litterboxes that were designed in a unsafe way that led to the deaths of multiple cats, and posed a danger to young children.
|Original product was delisted, yet many other variants of the same product exist on the site.
|
|<ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=p6Y19nSPvC4</ref>
|-
|Amazon adds ads to premium subscription
|2023 – Present
|Amazon added advertisements to previously ad free subscriptions for Prime Video and Echo Show frames.
|Continues to occur.
|
|<ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=RSi6g5-xUaY</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=ua_QL9YysHQ</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=VLFpU9aqtXc</ref>
|-
|Amazon allows fraudulent listings
|2014 – Present
|
|Fraudulent listings continue to be added, some removed.
|[[Amazon allows fraudulent product page after manual review! Deep dive on Amazons support of scams]]
|<ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=qZCMislL6_I</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=7trdHLtsFKM</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=B90_SNNbcoU</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=DiKflg8Uko4</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=y83BS_mK9GE</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=Rhb0ID9z4aE</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=XZNn2mO3dNQ</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=C0YNLWdj9sQ</ref>
|-
|Amazon allows sellers to bribe customers for better ratings
|2016 – Present
|Amazon sellers give customers gift cards in exchange for positive product reviews; Amazon does nothing to stop this.
|Continues to occur.
|[[Amazon's history of seller bribery]]
|<ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=eS698R-bxuc</ref>
|-
|Amazon has bad marketplace algorithms
|2023 – Present
|
|Algorithms still seem to be nonbeneficial.
|
|<ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=tAaSXz8CBMc</ref>
|-
|Amazon trashes refurbished market
|2022–2023
|
|Unknown
|
|<ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=h3qgbvq2SWs</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=qzUXmeaZsIQ</ref>
|-
|Amazon cancels associate account after recent negative media coverage, with a different reason
|2023
|
|Unknown
|
|<ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=Kcohq313q00</ref>
|-
|Amazon wrongfully suspends account of home owner
|2023
|A home owner was locked out of their Amazon account for nearly a week, after a delivery driver from Amazon misheard an automated message from their Eufy doorbell.
|Account reinstated.
|[[Amazon locks home owner out of Amazon account over allegation by Amazon delivery driver|Amazon locks home owner out of amazon account over allegation by amazon delivery driver]]
|<ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=SyEgD-5GK9c</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=NfiIXooD77s</ref>
|-
|Amazon engages in anticompetitive behavior
|2021–2022
|
|Unknown
|
|<ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=YBJoSGWdP0Y</ref> <ref group="Video References">https://youtube.com/watch?v=XCLx4mVJ4gk</ref>
|-
|Amazon sells fake electrical fuses
|2024
|Fuses are being sold that do not blow when supplied more power than it is intended to handle, which is a major safety risk.
|These fuses are still being sold to this day.
|[[Amazon allows fraudulent product page after manual review! Deep dive on Amazons support of scams]]
|<ref group="Video References">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B90_SNNbcoU</ref>
|-
|Amazon PhotosPlus discontinuation
|2024
|
|Since September 2024, it is no longer possible to use the Amazon Echo Show 8 as a digital frame without advertisements.
|[[Amazon PhotosPlus Discontinuation]]
|
|-
|Amazon uses [[dark patterns]] for its premium subscription
|2023 – Present
|Systematically designing the cancelling steps to be complicated and long; using tricks to kidnap users into the subscription.<ref>{{cite web |date=2023-06-21 |title=FTC Takes Action Against Amazon for Enrolling Consumers in Amazon Prime Without Consent and Sabotaging Their Attempts to Cancel |url=https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/06/ftc-takes-action-against-amazon-enrolling-consumers-amazon-prime-without-consent-sabotaging-their |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250129015417/https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/06/ftc-takes-action-against-amazon-enrolling-consumers-amazon-prime-without-consent-sabotaging-their |archive-date=2025-01-29 |website=Federal Trade Commission |url-status=live}}</ref> See "Project Illiad".
|Continues to occur.
|
|
|-
|Amazon removes option to lend Kindle e-books
|2022
|E-books marked with "lending enabled" could be lent to other Kindle users for a period of time during which the title is unavailable to the sender.
|Since August 2022, it is not possible to borrow Kindle books.
|
|[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAvFmnuZZMI '''Amazon Discontinues Lending Kindle e-Books''']
|-
|Amazon removes option not to send voice recordings from Echo devices
|2025
|In March 2025, Echo customers with the option "Do Not Send Voice Recordings" enabled received an e-mail that local processing will no longer be supported on their device.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-03-18 |title=TechLinked – Microsoft’s Big Oopsie – Echo voice recordings, Gemini watermarks |url=https://youtu.be/DhXH83O6pXc?t=268 |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=YouTube – TechLinked}}</ref>
|
|[[Amazon Echo changes terms of voice usage]]
|
|-
|Amazon discontinues Appstore for Android devices
|2025
|On August 20, 2025, Amazon will remove Android devices' access to the Amazon Appstore.
|Android apps downloaded through the Amazon Appstore will cease to function.
|[https://www.androidauthority.com/amazon-shuts-down-android-app-store-3528170/ Amazon pulls the plug on its Android app store that you never used anyway]
|
|}

==Products==

===Amazon Kindle (2007–Present)===
Amazon has progressively removed options for products purchased through the Kindle, effectively changing the meaning of purchases and ownership. It first removed the ability of users to lend e-books to one another, and later removed the ability to download purchased e-books to a computer.

===Amazon PhotosPlus (2023–2024)===
Amazon sold physical devices that could displaying photos stored in its Amazon Photos cloud storage through its PhotosPlus service. Less than one year later, it cancelled the service, which [[Retroactively amended purchase|changed the functionality]] of the devices, including showing advertisements every few hours.

===Amazon Prime (2005–Present)===
Amazon uses [[dark patterns]] for its subscription services, including tricking users into subscribing and making it very complicated to cancel.

=== Amazon Appstore (2011–Present) ===
Amazon Appstore is the primary app store for Amazon's Fire devices, and is also available on other Android devices. On August 20, 2025, Amazon will remove access to the app store for all non-Fire devices. All apps installed from the Amazon Appstore will cease to function. Fire devices will continue to be able to access the Amazon Appstore. As of July 2025, there has been no mention of restitution for users who may have purchased paid apps through the Amazon Appstore.

===Amazon Echo (2014–Present)===

===Amazon Alexa (2013–Present)===

===All Louis Rossmann videos covering Amazon===

<references group="Video References" />

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Amazon]]
[[Category:Articles in need of additional work]]

User:Saoirse/common.js

2025-07-11T19:19:11Z

Saoirse: Add Syntax Highlighter

//syntax highlighter
mw.loader.load('//www.mediawiki.org/w/index.php?title=MediaWiki:Gadget-DotsSyntaxHighlighter.js&action=raw&ctype=text/javascript');