August 3, 2026, 3:11 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
Since its launch in 2019, Disney+ has quickly become one of the largest streaming services worldwide. The platform attracts viewers with numerous exclusive films and series, especially from the “Star Wars” and Marvel universes. However, those who prefer to watch in the best quality currently have to deal with some compromises. It appears that Disney+ has removed 4K and HDR (High Dynamic Range) streaming options.
Update: Disney restores 4K and HDR
Disney has since issued another statement. Apparently, they have found an alternative solution to bring back 4K and HDR to Disney+. Here is the original statement:
“Following a recent court ruling, we have implemented an alternative technology solution to enable the provision of 4K UHD and HDR content and have begun restoring 4K UHD support on Disney+ Premium in Germany. This may result in 4K UHD being unavailable on some devices. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and are working to expand support to more devices and restore HDR as quickly as possible.”
Disney
Disney+ without 4K and HDR–Labels Missing
This is reported by ” Cachys Blog,” among others. According to them, 4K Ultra HD and HDR are completely missing from Disney+. This has been confirmed by both self-tests and numerous reader reports. This rules out issues with specific devices–the problem appears on a variety of TVs, streaming devices, and apps.
Additionally, labels for films and series are suddenly missing. In the app, for example, the labels for 4K and HDR on Disney+ titles like “Avengers: Endgame” or “Deadpool & Wolverine” are absent.
Confusion Over Missing Features
As stated in a separate article, customer support is also unsure of what’s happening. Some employees only mention a technical issue, while others believe that 4K and HDR are no longer being offered. The official FAQ for the platform still lists 4K streaming.
Particularly concerning: The best picture quality is the main selling point for Disney+’s most expensive subscription plan at 15.99 euros per month. And it is still available for purchase. However, instead of the promised resolution, customers now only receive 1080p in SDR (Standard Dynamic Range).
Disney+ Restores Higher Streaming Quality
QLED, 8K, HDR, Micro-LED: What Do These TV Acronyms Mean?
Is Another Legal Dispute to Blame?
TECHBOOK asked Disney why 4K and HDR are currently missing and how the confusion with customer service arose. Here is the response we received:
“Due to a recent court ruling regarding our technology for providing 4K UHD and HDR, we had to disable 4K UHD and HDR support on Disney+ in Germany. We deeply regret being forced into this decision and share our customers’ frustration. We are working hard to restore support as quickly as possible.”
Also interesting: Disney+ could become partially free
The company did not specify the exact nature of the legal dispute. However, it could potentially involve patent issues again. Earlier this year, Disney had to go to court with InterDigital due to patent infringements, primarily concerning HDR technologies. During this time, HDR10 was temporarily removed, which Disney later restored. It is therefore conceivable that another restoration could be successful.
Customers Get Some Money Back
According to the company, Disney+ Premium customers can now change their plan directly online or with customer service assistance. If they choose to remain in the Premium model despite the changes, they can receive a prorated refund for the current billing period. The request should be made through Disney+’s help center.
It is still unclear whether Disney+ will offer a one-time refund or permanently reduce the price of the Premium subscription. The company has not yet stated whether a potential price adjustment would apply to both existing subscribers and new customers.