Watch HD, 4K UHD & HDR videos with Google Play Movies & TV

Most movies and TV shows on Google Play 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. If a title isn't available in HD, you don't have sufficient bandwidth to stream an HD movie, or your device's display doesn't meet the minimum requirements. Your video will continue to play in SD.

You can still buy the HD version and watch it on another supported device (e.g. Chromecast or another device associated with the same Google Account).

Watch movies in 4K UHD

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

  • A compatible device:
  • Download speed of at least 15 megabits per second.

Without compatible TVs, or strong bandwidth, your video will continue to play in HD or SD quality.

Buy movies in 4K UHD

  1. On your web browser, go to Google Play Movies & TV, or if you’re on your Android phone or tablet, open the Google Play Movies & TV app Play Movies.
  2. Search for “4K” or you can look for movies with a 4K quality badge 4K Display.
  3. Click or tap Buy or Rent.

Watch movies you’ve already bought in 4K

Some SD and HD movies that you’ve already bought might be upgraded to 4K. To be updated to 4K, movies must be:

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

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

Find movies upgraded to 4K in your library
You’ll only be able to do these steps if you have movies that have been upgraded to 4K and if you have the latest version of the Google Play Movies & TV app. Learn how to upgrade your app.
  1. On your Android phone or tablet, open the Google Play Movies & TV app Play Movies.
  2. Tap Library.
  3. At the top, tap Upgraded to 4K.
  4. The upgraded movie will automatically play in the highest quality available for your device.

Turn on HDR Playback

HDR shows images with a wider range of brightness and color. You’ll automatically get HDR playback if HDR is supported on your TV.

Check availability
  • HDR playback is only available with 4K UHD videos.
  • HDR playback is currently only available on compatible devices:
    • 2017 or later Samsung 4K Smart TVs
    • 2016 or later LG Smart TVs
    • 2016 or later Sony 4K Bravia Android TVs
    • Chromecast Ultra when connected to compatible TVs.

For specific HDR playback instructions, check the manufacturer’s support site. You can also check the Picture or Input settings menu on your TV.

Request a refund

If you have problems watching your video in 4K/UHD/HD/SD, you can request a refund.

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