Ultra HDR Becomes a Standard for High-End Devices with Android 15: A Comprehensive Guide
With the release of Android 15, Google’s Compatibility Definition Document (CDD) has introduced significant updates, particularly concerning Ultra HDR support. Ultra HDR, first introduced in Android 14, is a Google-developed image format built on the JPEG standard, embedding HDR metadata. This allows devices with HDR displays to render the HDR version, while those without can display the SDR version.
Performance Class 15 Requirements
Devices that declare they meet Performance Class 15 must support Ultra HDR for both the main rear and front-facing cameras, making this feature mandatory for high-end smartphones. Performance Class 15 goes beyond Android’s baseline requirements, defining a set of hardware and software capabilities that ensure devices can handle advanced tasks such as HDR video codecs, hardware-accelerated AV1 decoding, and now, Ultra HDR image capturing. This means that when capturing images using the native camera app, these devices will output images in Ultra HDR by default.
However, not all devices upgrading to Android 15 will be required to support Ultra HDR—this mandate only applies to those high-end devices that opt into Performance Class 15. This opt-in approach gives manufacturers the flexibility to decide whether their devices will fully embrace these high-performance standards.
Impact on the Android Ecosystem
The inclusion of Ultra HDR as a standard for high-end devices signals a broader push by Google to unify the HDR experience across Android devices. Previously, OEMs would use proprietary HDR formats, leading to inconsistency in HDR content quality and compatibility. Now, with Ultra HDR becoming a requirement for certain devices, the Android ecosystem is likely to see a more standardized HDR experience.
Moreover, as Ultra HDR gains traction, it is expected that third-party camera apps will begin to adopt this format, further expanding its use beyond just the stock camera apps on Android devices. This could lead to a more consistent and high-quality HDR experience across various applications and platforms.
Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority
What This Means for Consumers
For consumers, this means that high-end Android 15 devices are set to deliver superior image quality, particularly when viewed on HDR-capable displays. This is especially important as more content, including photos and videos, is being consumed on mobile devices. The ability to capture and view images in Ultra HDR ensures that users can enjoy richer colors, better contrast, and overall enhanced visual experiences.
In conclusion, Android 15’s updates, particularly the inclusion of Ultra HDR as a standard for high-end devices, represent a significant step forward in the evolution of mobile photography and display technology. As more manufacturers and developers adopt this standard, users can expect a more unified and high-quality HDR experience across the Android ecosystem.
