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.

Recommended Videos

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

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…
YouTube starts using AI to make ads annoyingly difficult to avoid
YouTube app in iOS app gallery.

YouTube is relying on AI in its latest crusade against seekers of an ad-free video-watching experience. The company recently announced plans to use AI models to make ads more persuasive by strategically placing them within the video.

At its Brandcast 2025 event in New York, YouTube revealed it will deploy Google's Gemini AI to analyze videos to optimize placement of ads. The AI will be used to identify key moments or "Peak Points" in the video where viewers are most likely to be engaged and too invested to stop watching it in order to avoid the ad.

Read more
Qobuz Connect launches with Denon, Marantz, and more than 50 other hi-fi brands
Qobuz Connect.

Fans of Qobuz, the France-based subscription music service that specializes in lossless, hi-res audio, now have a new way of streaming their favorite tracks to their favorite devices. Qobuz Connect has been added to the company's iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows apps, letting them control compatible streaming speakers and components from a big list of hi-fi brands.

Most folks will recognize names like Denon and Marantz -- every device made by these brands that work with the HEOS streaming software are now Qobuz Connect compatible -- but the list also includes niche hi-fi players, such as Rotel, Nagra, HiFi Rose, Lindemann, Wiim, and Volumio. Here's the entire list.

Read more
Sony’s WH-1000XM6 debut with better ANC, a folding hinge, and a higher price
Sony WH-1000XM6.

After multiple leaks, there wasn't much left for Sony to announce, but nonetheless, today it's official: Sony's WH-1000XM6 are here and as expected, they feature a generous number of upgrades from the WH-1000XM5, including a new metal folding hinge that's designed to be both more durable and more flexible. The new XM6 comes in three colors: black, midnight blue, and Sony's strangely named platinum silver (which is actually an off-white, sandy color seen here). They're priced at $450 in the U.S., a $50 increase over the XM5 that appears partially tariff-driven, given their $599 Canadian dollar price (about $428 U.S.). They're available starting today at major online retailers and sony.com.

Sony took a bit of criticism for it fold-flat design of the WH-1000XM5, which some viewed as less travel friendly. The XM6 is a clever response to those concerns -- Sony has kept the XM5's sleek lines while adding in that missing second degree of motion in the hinge. It has also reduced the size of the travel case and given it a quick release magnetic closure instead of the usual zipper.

Read more