Ultra HDR

Ultra HDR is an image format that encodes a gain map into the metadata of a JPEG image. This allows for compatible decoders to decode and display a high dynamic range image while maintaining backwards compatibility with incompatible decoders and SDR panels. This format was first deployed on the Android 14 operating system, with display support later being added to Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Brave, Opera, Safari, and multiple other macOS and iOS applications.

Related gain map HDR image formats

Ultra HDR uses an encoding scheme developed by Adobe. Samsung brands Ultra HDR as Super HDR. A similar standard for gain map based HDR with backwards compatible SDR support for any image file type, including JPEG, is ISO 21496-1. ISO 21496-1 is branded by Apple as Adaptive HDR. As of Android 15, the Ultra HDR and ISO 21496-1 over JPEG formats are encoded simultaneously for HDR compatibility across Android and Apple devices.