Dolby Vision not working: what the whole chain needs

Dolby Vision is a chain. Engadget puts it plainly: every device from the subscription through the source and any connected audio gear has to support it, or you may not be watching at the level you think.

Step 1: Confirm the TV supports it

Dolby Vision is not on every TV. Engadget names LG, Sony, TCL and Amazon Fire TV among supporting brands, and our catalog notes that Samsung's S90H, S95H and R95H do not list it. Check your TV's exact spec sheet. For sets that do support it, see LG C5 or Sony Bravia 8 II.

Step 2: Check the subscription and the content

Content must be Dolby Vision. On Netflix, titles carry a Dolby Vision logo, and Engadget says you need the Premium plan for it. Other services have their own rules, so check the plan and the title.

Step 3: Check the app and device settings

Engadget lists these Netflix checks, and the idea applies to other apps:

1. Open the app's settings and set streaming quality to High.
2. Under video settings, make sure HDR is on.
3. Use a compatible source. Engadget lists compatible TVs, set-top boxes, game consoles, certain browsers and some computers.
4. Use at least a 15 Mbps connection, as Netflix and Dolby recommend, per Engadget.

If you stream from a phone to a TV, a wired connection or the TV's own app tends to give better results than casting.

Step 4: Check the cable and port

Engadget says you need an HDMI cable that supports HDCP 2.2 and a port that supports the high-resolution signal. Use a certified Ultra High Speed cable if you can. Engadget's cable guide says to look for the certification label. Using the TV's built-in app avoids the external cable altogether. If you are using an external player, try another HDMI port. See HDMI handshake problems.

Step 5: Check receivers and soundbars

Any receiver or soundbar between the source and the TV must pass the signal through. Engadget says some soundbars support Dolby Vision passthrough and names Bose, Sony, Denon and Hisense among them. To test, connect the player straight to the TV. If Dolby Vision returns, the device in the middle is the issue. Check its firmware and its HDMI passthrough setting.

Step 6: Update firmware

Engadget says all firmware and software should be up to date. Update the TV, the streaming device and any receiver or soundbar.

Step 7: Verify what you are really watching

Engadget gives these ways to see session details:

• On a smart TV, press the info button on the remote during playback.
• On Windows or Mac in a browser, press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + D.
• On mobile, open Playback Specification in the app settings.

A side effect to know about

TechRadar says motion smoothing can switch on automatically in a TV's Dolby Vision picture mode when it plays Dolby Vision movies and shows. If the picture suddenly looks too smooth, see the soap opera effect.