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How to Disable HDR Video Playback on Android

By: Author Alex Lim

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  • This guide explains how to disable HDR video playback on Android for streaming services like Netflix and YouTube.
  • The process involves using ADB commands and varies slightly for different Android versions, ensuring you can switch to Standard Dynamic Range (SDR).
  • Caution is advised when using these commands, and the effectiveness may vary with system updates or Android versions.

Are you using an Android device and looking to turn off HDR video playback? Many users enjoy the vibrant colors and enhanced brightness levels that High Dynamic Range (HDR) offers when streaming content. However, there are various reasons you might want to switch from HDR to Standard Dynamic Range (SDR).

For some users, HDR’s peak brightness can be too intense in specific situations, making the content less enjoyable. Additionally, some Samsung Galaxy users have reported that the high contrast of HDR can cause their screens to appear too dark, hindering their viewing experience. Of course, there can be numerous other reasons why you’d prefer to disable HDR.

The challenge lies in the fact that Android does not provide a built-in option to deactivate HDR video playback. But don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll walk you through a clever workaround that will help you achieve your goal. Follow these steps to disable HDR video playback on your Android device.

How to Disable HDR Video Playback on Android

Disabling HDR Video Playback on Android

If you’re looking to turn off HDR video playback on your Android device, here’s a step-by-step guide. Please note that this tweak applies to streaming services like Netflix and YouTube. Local videos, which are downloaded and stored on your device, will still play in HDR.

Step 1: Enable USB Debugging

Begin by enabling USB Debugging on your Android device. Connect your device to your PC using a USB cable.

Step 2: Download and Extract Android SDK Platform Tools

Download and extract the Android SDK Platform Tools on your PC.

Step 3: Launch Command Prompt

Open Command Prompt on your PC. You can do this by typing “CMD” in the address bar and hitting Enter.

Step 4: Enter ADB Shell

In the Command Prompt, type the following command:

adb shell

You’ll receive a prompt; tap “Allow” or “OK.”

Step 5: Enter ADB Commands

After entering ADB Shell, type in the following two commands:

adb shell settings put global are_user_disabled_hdr_formats_allowed 0
adb reboot

Allow your device to restart.

Step 6: Additional Command for Android 13

If you are using Android 13, type the following two commands:

adb shell cmd display set-user-disabled-hdr-types
adb shell cmd display set-user-disabled-hdr-types 1 2 3 4

Step 7: Additional Commands for Android 14+

For Android 14 and later versions, execute the following three commands:

adb shell settings put global are_user_disabled_hdr_formats_allowed 0
adb shell settings put global user_disabled_hdr_formats 1,2,3,4
adb reboot

These are the steps to turn off HDR video playback on your Android device. If you have any questions or need assistance with these steps, please leave a comment, and we’ll provide a solution as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Disabling HDR video playback on your Android device can be beneficial in specific situations, especially when the intense brightness and contrast of HDR become a hindrance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily switch from HDR to Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) on streaming services like Netflix and YouTube. Please note that this tweak does not affect local videos stored on your device, which will still play in HDR.

Disclaimer: It’s important to exercise caution when making system-level changes to your Android device using the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) commands. While the steps provided are generally safe, there is a slight risk of unintended consequences or errors during the process. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully, and if you are not familiar with ADB and command-line operations, it’s a good idea to seek guidance or assistance from someone with experience. Additionally, keep in mind that system updates or changes in Android versions may affect the effectiveness of these commands. Proceed at your own discretion, and we are not responsible for any potential issues that may arise from following these steps.