How to Identify If 4K Video Content Cannot Be Viewed Due to an HEVC Codec

Playing High-Efficiency Video Coding content on a computer or external display may require the purchase of a software HEVC codec or of a third-party media player.

HEVC content streaming is supported on configurations with:

• An optional discrete graphics card
• An optional add-on video graphics card
• An integrated 4K display panel
• Dolby Vision
• A CyberLink Blu-Ray player

The following three scenarios illustrate the differences.

Scenario One:

When selecting a local video file to play HEVC content, the HEVC codec is not available. A message appears in Windows that recommends installing a software codec from the Microsoft store. The message reads, "You need a new codec to play this item. Codecs help the app read and play different files. '[2160p] 4K-HD.Club-2013-Taipei 101 Fireworks Trailer' requires the 'HEVC Video Extension' codec pack, available from the Microsoft Store." The message has options to choose Get or Not now.

Scenario Two:

A streaming service is accessed using a computer application or a browser without the HEVC codec. The playback experience is still smooth, but the content can only be in high-definition and not in 4K.

Scenario Three:

4K content is attempted to be viewed on an external monitor with a computer that did not have the HEVC codec installed at the factory. The content can only be in high-definition and not in 4K. A 4K resolution is unable to be selected. This cannot be changed even if an HEVC codec is installed later.