Netflix has announced that users of Firefox can now also get Netflix on Linux. The move is part of plans announced some four years ago to play all videos in HTML5. Netflix has already launched HTML5 video on Chrome OS, Chrome, Internet Explorer, Safari, Opera, Firefox, and Edge.
Netflix launched 4K Ultra HD on Microsoft Edge last December, and has plans to launch HD on more platforms. Current Netflix-approved TVs with Chromecast built-in, support Dolby Vision and HDR10 and Netflix is planning to provide similar support on other platforms.
With Netflix’s adoption of HTML5, the company has contributed to several related industry standards, including:
- MPEG-Dash, which describes its streaming file formats, including fragmented MP4 and common encryption.
- WebCrypto, which protects user data from inspection or tampering and allows Netflix to provide its subscription video service on the web.
- Media Source Extensions, which enable its web application to dynamically manage the playback session in response to ever-changing network conditions.
- Encrypted Media Extensions, which enables playback of protected content, and hardware-acceleration on capable platforms.
Netflix confirmed that it intends to remain an active participant in these and other standards, including the handling of HDR images and graphics in CSS.
