Dolby Vision Firmware Update for Philips Blu-ray Players

Two 4K UHD Blu-ray players in the Philips range of current disc spinners will be able to receive a Dolby Vision firmware update as of now, according to P&F USA. The compatible models are the BDP7502 ($299), which was previously introduced at CES 2017, and the BDP7302 ($160). While both models have included HDR10 support since their respective releases, the more versatile DV HDR tech allows for changing brightness intensity on a scene-by-scene and per-frame basis. As many readers will also know, Dolby Vision enhances contrast, detail perception and a fuller color palette, and has witnessed a fast-track transfer over to the home from the professional cinema.

“HDR is a significant advancement in picture technology that delivers tangible improvements in image quality, but Dolby Vision goes further and transforms an HDR picture into something that is truly stunning,” said Peter Swinkels, General Manager, Product Planning, P&F USA, Inc., the exclusive North American license partner for Philips consumer televisions and home video products. “Dolby Vision is not just greater dynamic range and wider color gamut; it is also smarter pixels that deliver the best possible viewing experience for consumers.”

Both the BDP7502 and BDP7302 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray players offer built-in HEVC and VP9 decoders for wirelessly streaming Netflix, which supports Dolby Vision, and YouTube 4K content. They also feature 4K upscaling for non-4K sources, and both Dolby Audio and DTS-HD Master Audio. Connections include HDMI 2.0a HDR video output and 1.4a audio output to maintain compatibility with legacy AVRs, Wireless LAN 802.11ac, Ethernet and USB Multimedia.

Philips joins the growing roll-call of manufacturers jumping on the highly sought-after Dolby Vision bandwagon, which now includes LG, Oppo and Panasonic. Support for DV is also easier for manufacturers to implement now that hardware is no longer a critical element of the system’s architecture. With the technology now available as a software-only option –  while also retroactively supporting HDMI 1.4 – we might see more manufacturers following suit by disseminating firmware updates for other legacy players and consoles.

Martin Dew

Martin, a seasoned journalist and AV expert, has written for several notable print magazines. He’s served in key roles at Lucasfilm’s THX Division, NEC’s digital cinema division, and has even consulted for DreamWorks. Despite his illustrious career, Martin remains rooted in his passion for cinema and acting, with notable appearances in several Spielberg films, Doctor Who, and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. He currently resides in San Francisco.