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Netflix Expands 4K Support to Google Chrome

WireByte Staff · August 5, 2026

Netflix has removed the need to switch to Microsoft Edge for 4K streaming on Windows, but users still require compatible hardware and a Premium plan. 4K support remains limited to Windows, with macOS users still restricted to 1080p. The change follows a Chrome update, but users must be running version 117 or later.

Key points

  • Netflix now supports 4K playback in Google Chrome on Windows, but only for users with compatible hardware and a Premium plan.
  • 4K support is limited to Windows, with macOS still restricted to 1080p.
  • Users must be running Chrome version 117 or later to access 4K streaming.
  • Netflix still requires a 4K HDCP 2.2-compatible display, a supported GPU or processor, and Windows 11 for 4K playback.
  • Analysts say this change may reduce the need for users to switch browsers for 4K streaming.

Netflix has quietly expanded its 4K support to Google Chrome on Windows, eliminating the need for users to switch to Microsoft Edge for Ultra HD playback. This change follows a Chrome update, but users must be running version 117 or later to access 4K streaming.

While this development is welcome news for Chrome users, it's essential to note that 4K support is still limited to Windows, with macOS users still restricted to 1080p. This means that Safari remains the only browser option for 4K streaming on Macs.

To access 4K playback in Chrome, users must meet specific hardware requirements, including a 4K HDCP 2.2-compatible display, a supported GPU or processor, and Windows 11. Additionally, users must have a Netflix Premium plan to take advantage of this feature.

Analysts say that this change may reduce the need for users to switch browsers for 4K streaming, but it's unclear how this will impact the market in the long term.

Sources

WireByte Staff — Editorial Team

The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.