A new software update heading to LG’s 2017 OLED TVs will activate lossless Dolby Atmos True HD playback over HDMI.
All 2017 models have been able to decode Dolby Atmos since launch, but it has previously only worked with streamed content, and subject to an element of compression. With the new firmware upgrade, owners of Ultra HD Blu-ray discs will be able to enjoy true Dolby Atmos surround sound in all its glory.
That is, of course, if they have the hardware to back it up. Though all 2017 LG OLED sets are getting the upgrade, which enables other new features, owners of models such as the B7 and C7 with their fairly standard speakers are left out unless they own additional sound hardware. Premium models like the E7, G7 and W7 all incorporate sound bars that will be able to convey at least some of the benefits of Dolby Atmos.
On the subject of the update’s other features, version 04.70.07 (04.70.06 in Europe) will also receive a new picture preset designed by experts at Technicolor, which is also coming to LG’s range of 2017 Super UHD LCD TVs. Technicolor Expert mode is altogether separate to support for the company’s Advanced HDR format, which is coming in a further update later this year. Advanced HDR will bring LG 2017 OLED screens up to an output of four HDR formats.
The new firmware has begun rolling out to select users on a test basis, and will be released to all on a territory-by-territory basis from October 20th.
Analyst Comment
At the moment, I’m not aware of anyone that has yet said that it will support the Technicolor HDR approach at the content creation and delivery stage. (BR)
