Android 17 debuts Eclipsa Video to fix HDR's brightness problem

Android 17 introduces Eclipsa Video, an automatic HDR standard that balances brightness and color across phones, TVs, and tablets.

Android 17 Eclipsa Video

Addressing brightness concern

Google has begun rolling out Android 17 with a new HDR video standard called Eclipsa Video, aimed at addressing one of HDR's longstanding challenges: inconsistent brightness and tone across devices. 

HDR videos have historically appeared too bright on some screens and too dull on others, resulting in uneven playback for users.

Android 16 had previously addressed the issue with a manual HDR brightness slider, requiring users to adjust settings themselves. In Android 17, Eclipsa Video automates this process.

The standard uses a reference point known as "HDR reference white" to keep text and other UI elements readable during HDR playback. It also applies what Google calls "adaptive headroom," which accounts for each display's brightness limitations so that highlights render appropriately whether the content is viewed on a high-end television or a smartphone.

In addition, Eclipsa Video applies frame-by-frame adjustments intended to preserve accurate color, mood, and contrast throughout playback.

Because the standard is built directly into Android 17, devices running the update are expected to support more consistent HDR playback without requiring manual configuration.

The feature is built on the SMPTE ST 2094-50 specification, which Google developed alongside Apple and NBCUniversal, and is positioned as an open alternative to formats such as Dolby Vision. 

Samsung has indicated that Eclipsa Video support could extend to its Galaxy devices through the upcoming One UI 9 update.

What do you guys think?

Source: Google