YouTube adds support for HDR video for devices like the Chromecast Ultra

If you have a supported TV or PC monitor, you might soon be able to view High Dynamic Range (HDR) videos on YouTube for the first time. Google has announced it has added support for the advanced video features, and any YouTube creator can begin uploading HDR-based clips right now.

In case you are not familiar with HDR, it allows videos to show a wider range of colors and brightness. This is supposed to result in images that have a more realistic look to them compared to the older SDR videos. YouTube has already posted a small range of HDR-supported clips from some of their content creators, such as the one shown below.

Of course, you will need an HDR-supported TV or PC monitor to fully appreciate the more realistic videos on YouTube. HDR TVs can take advantage of the support if they use the $69 Chromecast Ultra streaming dongle from Google. Unfortunately, the Google Store is currently not taking orders for the Chromecast Ultra; it is instead putting people on a waitlist.

The YouTube app on all 2016 Samsung SUHD and UHD TVs will also be updated in the near future to support HDR videos. Google says it is working with other partners to add support for its HDR-based clips as well.