Netflix LogoSource: Joe Maring / Android Central

What you need to know

  • Netflix is bringing 'studio-quality' audio to Android devices with its latest update.
  • The update adds support for the xHE-AAC (Extended HE-AAC with MPEG-D DRC) codec to compatible Android phones.
  • Since the new format supports loudness management, all titles that you watch will play at a consistent volume.

Netflix is rolling out an updated version of its Android app with support for the xHE-AAC format. The company claims the new audio codec will deliver "studio-quality" sound to Android viewers.

One of the main advantages of the new codec is its ability to adapt to variable cellular connections. This means you can enjoy studio-quality audio when the network conditions are optimal, and minimized rebuffers when you have poor reception or the network is congested.

The xHE-AAC codec also supports loudness management, making it possible for all titles to play at a consistent volume. Once you set the volume at your preferred level, you will no longer have to keep changing it when you switch from one title to another.

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Netflix says it found people switched from their phone's built-in speakers to headphones 7% less often when listening to xHE-AAC. In case of high dynamic range content, they switched 16% less.

While you don't need to have the best Android phone to enjoy the benefits of the new xHE-AAC codec in the Netflix app, you will need to have a device running Android 9 or higher.

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