DisplayHDR 1.2: A Big Leap for HDR Displays (2024 Update)

In a presentation at Display Week 2024, VESA, the Video Electronics Standards Association, announced a major update to their DisplayHDR specification. DisplayHDR 1.2 marks the first significant revision in five years and promises to elevate the overall quality and consistency of HDR displays for consumers.
This update brings a multi-pronged approach to improving the HDR experience. One key area of focus is on enhancing the requirements for various display aspects. The minimum color gamut requirement for the entry-level DisplayHDR 400 tier has been bumped up to DCI-P3, aligning it with the stricter standards of higher tiers. This signifies a broader range of colors that a DisplayHDR 400 certified display must be capable of reproducing.
Another significant change lies in the testing methodology. Previously, black level measurements were conducted against a pure black background. DisplayHDR 1.2 introduces a more realistic approach by using a background image for these evaluations. This better reflects how users actually experience content with varying brightness levels. Additionally, the testing range for luminance and white point accuracy has been significantly expanded. Displays are now measured from a minimum of 1 nit brightness, all the way up to nearly 100% of their maximum output. This ensures consistent performance across the entire brightness spectrum.
DisplayHDR 1.2 also places a stronger emphasis on local dimming technology, a feature commonly found in high-end displays. New tests have been introduced to assess the contrast ratio of displays with both one-dimensional and two-dimensional local dimming backlights. Local dimming allows for more precise control over brightness zones within the display, leading to deeper blacks and improved image fidelity. Notably, the DisplayHDR 1000 tier now mandates a two-dimensional local dimming array for achieving a remarkable 30,000:1 contrast ratio. This signifies a significant leap in dynamic range for these top-of-the-line displays.
The cumulative effect of these advancements in DisplayHDR 1.2 is a noticeable improvement in image quality for consumers. With stricter requirements and more comprehensive testing, VESA aims to ensure that certified displays deliver a consistently exceptional HDR experience. Tighter specifications between tiers also make it easier for consumers to differentiate between options and choose a display that best suits their needs and budget.
The video presentation by VESA also highlighted some of the latest laptops and monitors that comply with the DisplayHDR 1.2 standard. This serves as a testament to the industry's rapid adoption of the updated specification. VESA emphasizes its collaborative approach, working closely with member companies to develop and refine the DisplayHDR standard for the benefit of the display industry as a whole. This ongoing collaboration ensures that the DisplayHDR program remains relevant and continues to push the boundaries of HDR display technology.
In conclusion, DisplayHDR 1.2 represents a significant step forward for HDR displays. By implementing stricter requirements, more rigorous testing procedures, and a focus on local dimming technology, VESA is paving the way for a more vivid and true-to-life HDR viewing experience for consumers. This update signifies VESA's commitment to working with the display industry to continuously improve the quality and capabilities of HDR displays.
Find the press release here: displayhdr.org/pr/vesa-elevat...
The full spec sheet for DisplayHDR 1.2 is here: displayhdr.org/wp-content/upl...
Watch all my videos from the Display Week 2024 here: • Display Week 2024
Description by Gemini.