Microsoft Edge Chromium: Netflix streaming in 4K is available but not on Chrome

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The DRM PlayReady required to play Netflix content in 4K on a computer will be integrated with the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge browser version. Google Chrome will not be eligible. If both browsers now use the same kernel, everyone makes their own changes.

Since the announcement of the transition from the Edge browser to the Chromium kernel, many are wondering what is preparing Microsoft to stand out from competitors and especially Google Chrome which has more than 60% market share. A few days ago, an unofficial version of the new Edge browser leaked on the Internet. But it only presents a fragment of the features that should be available in the final version.

Netflix in 4k: Edge (Chromium) will remain the only compatible browser

While digging into the settings of the new browser, curious have identified a flag that allows to activate Widevine DRM and PlayReady. The latest is a technology from Microsoft that is currently the only one that can read Netflix content in 4K on a computer. It is integrated with the Netflix application available on the Windows 10 Store and will be visibly renewed in the next version of the Edge browser after its transition to the Chromium kernel.

But that does not mean that all users will be able to enjoy it, because the DRM PlayReady is linked to the hardware and requires at least an Intel Kaby Lake processor, or a GPU Nvidia GeForce 1000 series. For others, but also for those who stay true to Google Chrome, content will remain limited to the 720p definition.

It must be said that on computer, this definition is already sufficient to properly enjoy the catalog of movies and series Netflix. To really differentiate itself from the competition, Microsoft Edge will have to add more strings to its bow.