SD and HD titles on Google Play Movies are being upgraded to 4K for free

Google Play Movies logo
Google Play Movies logo (Image credit: Joe Maring / Android Central)

4K is steadily becoming the new resolution norm in the entrainment world, and to make sure it stays on top of things, Google is now upgrading all of its users' SD and HD titles to 4K at no extra cost.

This move was announced on October 23, and according to Google, "when 4K titles are available from participating Hollywood studios, we'll upgrade your past movie purchases so you can stream in 4K." All of this is done for 100% free, and when a movie of yours does receive the 4K treatment, you'll see it added to a new "Upgraded to 4K" filter in the Play Movies & TV app.

Along with this, Google also says that all 4K movies going forward will cost less.

Last but not least, Google Play Movies & TV is getting some much-needed upgrades for smart TVs. You can now watch titles in 4K via the Movies & TV app on "most 4K Samsung Smart TVs." Google notes that it's working with LG to support its TVs as well. Similarly, the app for Samsung, LG, and Vizio televisions now has a cleaner and more streamlined UI.

Download: Google Play Movies & TV (free) (opens in new tab)

Joe Maring

Joe Maring was a Senior Editor for Android Central between 2017 and 2021. You can reach him on Twitter at @JoeMaring1.

7 Comments
  • Thanks Google. Didn't get any yet but it's nice.
  • Hopefully Vudu follows suit!
  • Crossing everything for that!
  • US and Canada only, of course.
  • This is cool but only a couple of my titles have been upgraded so far maybe more will start to show up.
  • A couple of months ago I began wondering if Google would be upgrading all the movies I've purchased over the years and I'm happy they have decided to do so and free at that. I was worried cause as of late Google has started using Apple tactics of overpricing and charging for every little thing....anyways at least 10 titles have already been updated and hopefully all will be done within the next month or two
  • Can you explain if I want 4k should I be buying movies from google play movies or youtube app? (android and streaming to a tv)