Linux finally has working HDR, but you still can't use it for most streaming services
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Linux has finally gained functional HDR support, but only under Wayland and primarily for AMD and Nvidia GPUs (Intel support remains incomplete). The bigger obstacle is DRM: streaming services rely on Widevine, and Linux is locked at the software-based L3 tier, limiting playback to 720p SD with no HDR support. This affects Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and virtually all major platforms. Unlike Windows on Arm, which eventually got native Widevine support due to growing market share, Linux's low user share makes it unlikely that Google or streaming companies will invest in L1 Widevine certification for the platform anytime soon. Workarounds are limited — a Chrome extension can push Netflix to 1080p, but there's no broad solution. Physical media or self-hosted services like Jellyfin are the only reliable HDR options for Linux users.
