Real-time addition of High Dynamic Range is now possible with NVIDIA’s RTX Video HDR feature. This builds upon the existing NVIDIA RTX Video Upscaling, a driver-level technology aimed at boosting video resolution. The focus now extends to Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) videos, especially on HDR monitors where they may not appear as striking.
The utilization of Tensor cores, integrated into every GeForce RTX 20 and newer GPU, enables NVIDIA to assert this accomplishment. Notably, the technology is incompatible with the GTX series. NVIDIA asserts that their RTX Video HDR technology ensures enhanced vibrancy, dynamic colors, and the preservation of intricate details typically lost in video compression.
The SDR to HDR technology seems to be an advanced form of (AI-powered) inverse tone mapping designed for SDR content. Currently, its functionality is limited to Internet browsers built on Chromium, including Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. Videos can undergo automatic conversion to HDR content when played in supported browsers. However, the RTX Video Upscaling technology is also compatible with VLC and MPC-BE video players. Regrettably, both currently appear to lack support for the HDR feature.
HDR content may not cater to all users, as not all HDR-compatible monitors provide a comparable experience. NVIDIA asserts that its technology functions with all HDR-10 compatible displays, without specifying any recommendation or requirement for VESA DisplayHDR specs. Generally, monitors with a minimum peak brightness of 600 nits are considered the starting point for HDR content, implying that DisplayHDR 400 monitors may not fully leverage this technology.
To enable RTX Video HDR and Video Super Resolution on any HDR10-compatible display:
●Download and install the newest available Game Ready or Studio Ready driver
●Ensure Windows’ HDR features are enabled in System > Display > HDR
●Open the NVIDIA Control Panel by right clicking your desktop
●Navigate to Adjust Video Image Settings on the left nav of the app
●Tick “Super Resolution” and “High Dynamic Range”
Source: NVIDIA