Netflix brings 4K streaming to Google Chrome for Windows users
The streaming giant has expanded its high-resolution support to include Google Chrome on Windows PCs, ending the exclusive reliance on Microsoft Edge or the native application for desktop viewers.
Netflix has broadened its 4K streaming capabilities to support Google Chrome on Windows personal computers, a development that removes the previous requirement for users to rely on Microsoft Edge or the native Windows application. This update provides PC users with greater flexibility in their browser choice, although the company notes that Mac users must continue to use Safari to access the highest resolution content.
Access to 4K streaming remains restricted to subscribers of the Premium tier, as the Standard and ad-supported plans do not include the feature. For those on the Premium plan, the transition to Chrome introduces specific hardware and software prerequisites that must be met to ensure the stream plays at the intended quality.
The primary technical hurdle for Windows users is the requirement for Windows 11. Additionally, the operating system must support the HEVC codec. While some systems have native support, Windows users may need to purchase and install the HEVC Video Extensions package from the Microsoft Store. Netflix is gradually transitioning from HEVC to the more efficient AV1 codec, but HEVC remains a key requirement for 4K streaming on the platform at this stage.
Hardware specifications are equally strict. According to Netflix, 4K content requires an Nvidia GeForce 1050 GPU or newer, or an AMD Radeon RX 400 GPU or newer. The central processing unit must be a 7th-generation Intel Core CPU or newer, or an AMD Ryzen CPU. Users should also ensure their computer is running the latest software and drivers to maintain compatibility.
Display requirements are critical for verifying the 4K experience. Both the monitor and the computer’s video output must support HDCP 2.2, a digital copy protection protocol that prevents unauthorized copying of 4K video. If a PC is connected to an external 4K monitor or television, both the display itself and the specific port on the graphics card must meet this standard. Most standard monitors with resolutions of 1080p or 1440p will not fully utilise the 4K stream.
For users of Chromebook Plus or Chromebox devices, the requirements are slightly different but remain rigorous. These devices must run Chrome OS 76 or later with Google Chrome installed, alongside a Premium plan and a 4K monitor compatible with HDCP 2.2. A fast internet connection is also essential for maintaining 4K stream quality across all platforms.
If users suspect their picture quality is being downgraded despite meeting these requirements, they can verify their actual streaming resolution by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Shift+D during playback. This action brings up a diagnostic overlay displaying the current bitrate and resolution. If the resolution is lower than 3840 by 2160, the video is not 4K, and users should check their Netflix playback settings to ensure the Ultra HD option is enabled and data usage is set to High/Best Video.
