Netflix stream-quality controversy: Difference between revisions
→4. Contradictory requirements / misleading documentation: They updated the page or it was a misunderstanding. It's no "10.11 anywhere", just "11.0". |
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Netflix routinely licenses HD content even though 4K HDR is readily available. This isn't advertised anywhere. It also typically includes blockbuster movies, where the visuals are the whole point. | Netflix routinely licenses HD content even though 4K HDR is readily available. This isn't advertised anywhere. It also typically includes blockbuster movies, where the visuals are the whole point. | ||
For example: Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is HD only on Netflix<ref>https://www.netflix.com/title/81602889</ref>, whereas | For example: Transformers: Rise of the Beasts is HD only on Netflix<ref>https://www.netflix.com/title/81602889</ref>, whereas it’s clearly available in UHD on other platforms<ref>https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Rise-Beasts-Anthony-Ramos/dp/B0BX1MWKHY</ref>, or Blu-ray<ref>https://www.amazon.com/Transformers-Rise-Beasts-4K-UHD/dp/B0C5P5K55N</ref>. | ||
== Terms of Service analysis == | == Terms of Service analysis == | ||
Netflix | Currently, Netflix offers 1080p video resolution on every plan they offer on their Plans and Pricing for a subscription. Consumers who watch Netflix on web browsers will be paying for 1080p resolution while only receiving 720p resolution maximum, because of DRM. The TOS allows Netflix to claim your device faulty or your internet speed slow to justify this behaviour. | ||
Netflix's Terms of Service (TOS) obscures important information about video-quality limitations in Section 4.7, which vaguely states: | |||
Netflix's Terms of Service (TOS) obscures important information about video quality limitations in Section 4.7, which vaguely states: | |||
<blockquote>4.7. The quality of the display of the Netflix content may vary from device to device, and may be affected by a variety of factors, such as your location, the bandwidth available through and/or speed of your Internet connection. HD, Ultra HD and HDR availability is subject to your Internet service and device capabilities. Not all content is available in all formats, such as HD, Ultra HD or HDR and not all plans allow you to receive content in all formats. The minimum connection speed for HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 720p or higher) is 3.0 Mbps per stream; however, we recommend a faster connection for improved video quality. A connection speed of at least 5.0 Mbps per stream is recommended to receive Full HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 1080p or higher). A connection speed of at least 15.0 Mbps per stream is recommended to receive Ultra HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 4K or higher). You are responsible for all Internet access charges. Please check with your Internet provider for information on possible Internet data usage charges. Netflix makes no representations or warranties about the quality of your watching experience on your display. The time it takes to begin watching Netflix content will vary based on a number of factors, including your location, available bandwidth at the time, the Netflix content you have selected and the configuration of your Netflix ready device.</blockquote> | <blockquote>4.7. The quality of the display of the Netflix content may vary from device to device, and may be affected by a variety of factors, such as your location, the bandwidth available through and/or speed of your Internet connection. HD, Ultra HD and HDR availability is subject to your Internet service and device capabilities. Not all content is available in all formats, such as HD, Ultra HD or HDR and not all plans allow you to receive content in all formats. The minimum connection speed for HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 720p or higher) is 3.0 Mbps per stream; however, we recommend a faster connection for improved video quality. A connection speed of at least 5.0 Mbps per stream is recommended to receive Full HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 1080p or higher). A connection speed of at least 15.0 Mbps per stream is recommended to receive Ultra HD video quality (defined as a resolution of 4K or higher). You are responsible for all Internet access charges. Please check with your Internet provider for information on possible Internet data usage charges. Netflix makes no representations or warranties about the quality of your watching experience on your display. The time it takes to begin watching Netflix content will vary based on a number of factors, including your location, available bandwidth at the time, the Netflix content you have selected and the configuration of your Netflix ready device.</blockquote> | ||
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* The TOS suggests device capabilities are the issue, without mentioning Netflix's specific limitations. | * The TOS suggests device capabilities are the issue, without mentioning Netflix's specific limitations. | ||
* Netflix chooses to limit 4K streaming to certain devices without disclosing these limits. | * Netflix chooses to limit 4K streaming to certain devices without disclosing these limits. | ||
* No clear information about browser limitations to 720p | * No clear information about browser limitations to 720p because of DRM. | ||
* No direct way to determine if a device is | * No direct way to determine if a device is “Netflix ready”. | ||
* Playback quality is only visible in advanced statistics accessed | * Playback quality is only visible in advanced statistics accessed through a non-standard shortcut, meaning it’s basically hidden from non-power users, possibly so that Netflix’s customers won’t notice they are not getting the service they’re paying for. | ||
=== 2. Buried Information === | === 2. Buried Information === | ||
* Limitations are only mentioned in small print at the bottom of the plan selection page. | * Limitations are only mentioned in small print at the bottom of the plan-selection page. | ||
* The 4K HDR option is the default, with an attractive icon, drawing attention to the more expensive option. | * The 4K HDR option is the default, with an attractive icon, drawing attention to the more expensive option. | ||
* Users must scroll to the bottom to find a document explaining the limitations. | * Users must scroll to the bottom to find a document explaining the limitations. | ||
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* No clear guidance on determining device compatibility before subscribing. | * No clear guidance on determining device compatibility before subscribing. | ||
This represents a | This represents a consume-protection issue where technical limitations imposed by the vendor affect service quality and are hidden from consumers at the point of purchase, while still charging premium prices for resolutions that are restricted on many devices, browsers, and operating systems, even if they are capable of handling them. | ||
== References == | == References == |