Watch HD, 4K UHD & HDR videos

Most movies and TV shows on Google are available in high definition (HD). HD video displays with a higher resolution than standard definition (SD) video, which results in a sharper picture.

Watch videos in HD

The ability to play HD titles depends on studio licensing agreements and compatibility with your device. Your video will play in SD if:

  • The title isn't available in HD.
  • You don't have sufficient bandwidth to stream in HD.
  • Your device's display doesn't meet the minimum requirements.

You can still buy the HD version and watch it on another supported device, like Chromecast, as long as you use the same Google Account.

Playback in HD is unavailable when streamed on a web browser, except when played with YouTube on Safari.

Watch movies in 4K UHD

To watch 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) quality videos, you will need a:

  • Compatible device:
    • 4K Android TV models like Sony Bravia, Nvidia Shield, and others
    • Chromecast Ultra connected to a 4K TV
    • Chromecast with Google TV
  • Download speed of at least 15 megabits per second.

Without a compatible TV or strong internet connection, the video will play in HD or SD quality.

Buy movies in 4K UHD

Watch movies you already bought in 4K

Some SD and HD movies that you bought in the past might be upgraded to 4K. To be upgraded to 4K, movies must be:

  • Bought or redeemed from Google Play or YouTube.
  • Bought or redeemed before October 23, 2018.
  • From Fox, Lionsgate, NBC Universal, Sony (US only), or Warner Bros.
  • Available in 4K in your location.

Tip: Upgraded Family Library purchases can be shared at 4K quality.

Find movies upgraded to 4K in your library

Important: These steps only work if:

  • You have movies that were upgraded to 4K.
  • You have the latest version of the app. Learn how to upgrade your app.
  1. On your phone or tablet, open Google Play Movies & TV Play Movies.
  2. Tap Library.
  3. At the top, tap Upgraded to 4K.

Tip: The upgraded movie automatically plays in the highest quality available for your device.

Watch movies in HDR

HDR displays images with a wider range of brightness and color. HDR playback is only available with 4K UHD videos that play on compatible devices:

  • 2016 or later Sony 4K Bravia Android TVs
  • Chromecast Ultra when connected to compatible TVs
  • Chromecast with Google TV

HDR playback works automatically if your TV supports HDR. For specific HDR playback instructions, check the manufacturer's support site.

Request a refund

If you have problems when you try to watch your video in 4K, UHD, HD, or SD, you may be eligible for a refund. Learn how to request a refund.

Related resources

  • Watch movies & TV shows in HD or 4K on YouTube
  • Watch & manage Google Play videos on your TV

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