Skip to main content

Netflix rolls out Super HD and 3D streaming to specific ISPs

super-hd
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Detailed within a press release explaining the expanded feature, Netflix has launched support for high-quality 1080p streaming as well as expanded the content catalog to include a selection of 3D films for partners enrolled in the company’s Open Connect initiative. Called Super HD by Netflix, the ability to stream content in 1080p is limited to a consumer’s Internet Provider. By visiting the launch page, consumers will be able to immediately see if their ISP is part of the Open Connect group. In order to stream 1080p content, the software requires a minimum Internet connection speed of at least 5Mb/s. Netflix representatives recommends 7Mb/s for the highest quality version of the 1080p high definition content.

Devices that support the Super HD launch include the Sony PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii U, Roku XD and XS, the latest version of the Apple TV and Windows 8. In addition, smart televisions and Blu-ray players with 1080p Netflix support will work with the Super HD program.

In order to locate content that’s available in the Super HD format, Netflix subscribers need to look for the Super HD logo on the movie or television content description page. There is no additional fee required to enroll in the Super HD program.

Netflix hasn’t disclosed the full list of Internet service providers that are currently enrolled in the Open Connect program, but two confirmed providers include Cablevision and Google Fiber. Regarding 3D titles, Netflix has made a variety of documentaries available to stream in 3D as well as Immortals starring Man of Steel’s Henry Cavill as well as Mickey Rourke. According to Netflix representatives, the company is going to monitor the amount of people streaming content in 3D and will make the decision to expand the volume of 3D titles later in the year. In addition, Netflix is considering making 3D titles available to international audiences. 

arrested development on NetflixIn a related announcement this week, Netflix announced an updated release schedule of original programming rolling out during 2013. On February 1, the entire thirteen-episode season of David Fincher’s political drama House of Cards will be available on Netflix Instant.

Starring veteran actor Kevin Spacey, Netflix has already renewed the drama for a second season which is scheduled to tentatively debut during early 2014. On April 19, Eli Roth’s Hemlock Grove murder mystery will debut on Netflix Instant as well. 

Much to the delight of Arrested Development fans, Netflix representatives announced that the fourteen-episode season will become available on Netflix Instant during May 2013. According to show creator Mitch Hurwitz, each episode is roughly 30 minutes long and will focus on different characters. While Hurwitz recommends watching the episodes in order, Netflix subscribers can also skip around to different episodes without ruining the larger plot arc. 

Other original content heading to Netflix during 2013 includes the comedy Orange is the New Black from the producer of Weeds during late Spring as well as the Ricky Gervais series Derek which is about a comedic group of losers working in a nursing home. During Fall 2013, Netflix will release the second season of Steve Van Zandt’s Lilyhammer

Editors' Recommendations

Mike Flacy
By day, I'm the content and social media manager for High-Def Digest, Steve's Digicams and The CheckOut on Ben's Bargains…
How many devices can you watch Sling TV on at once?
Sling TV on an iPhone.

One of the coolest things about live-streaming video is that you’re almost never limited to just a single feed on a single device. But if you’re trying to figure out how many devices you can watch Sling TV on at once, the answer is “it depends.”

Sling TV is unlike its competitors in that it has a couple of base plans from which to choose—Sling Orange and Sling Blue. They have fewer channels (separately and combined) than you’d find on other options, but they also cost less. You then couple them with add-ons (called “Extras” in Sling world) to fill out your plan. And the number of devices on which you can simultaneously watch Sling TV depends on how you put your scheme together.

Read more
We tested them all — these are the best Sonos soundbars in 2024
Sonos Beam Gen 2 soundbar.

If you're shopping for a soundbar, you've probably stumbled upon Sonos. The company is responsible for many of the best soundbars of 2024, thanks to a combination of rich audio, time-tested reliability, and (fairly) reasonable prices. Sonos soundbars are great for home theaters, but they're just as capable of serving as a dedicated sound system for your favorite music, making them a hot commodity among all types of shoppers.

But which Sonos soundbar is the best? Many specs are shared across all devices in its lineup, which can make it difficult to figure out which is best for your needs. Should you opt for the expensive Sonos Arc? Or would you be better served by the affordable Sonos Ray? And what about the mid-range Beam – is it good enough to serve as the anchor of your home theater?

Read more
What is Sling Freestream?
Sling TV Freestream logo.

If you were to ask about the biggest trend in streaming video of late, chances are it’d be something called FAST. That’s short for free, ad-supported television. It’s everywhere. And if you’re looking to watch something without having to pay yet another monthly fee, it’s got you covered.

Sling TV has its own FAST service, called Sling Freestream. As the name implies, it’s free. In fact, you don’t even have to have a Sling TV account to watch.

Read more