Disney Plus Users in Germany Face Resolution Setbacks

Disney Plus subscribers in Germany are currently limited to watching content in 1080p and SDR, even those paying for the premium subscription. The streaming service has removed 4K UHD and HDR options, reportedly due to an ongoing patent dispute.

For several months, Disney Plus has not provided high-dynamic-range formats such as Dolby Vision and HDR 10 Plus, nor 3D films, to its German subscribers. This change stems from a patent dispute with the US company Interdigital, which secured a preliminary injunction from the Munich District Court in November 2025.

Restrictions on High Resolutions

The recent ruling against Disney has led to the removal of both 4K UHD and HDR resolutions from its offerings in Germany. As a result, even premium subscribers, who pay €15.99 per month, are restricted to 1080p and SDR resolution, according to reports from heise.de.

Interdigital obtained this injunction from the Düsseldorf branch of the European Unified Patent Court (UPC), suggesting that the implications may extend beyond Germany to other EU countries. However, it appears that 4K UHD and HDR options have not yet been removed from Disney Plus in Austria.

Interdigital's Claims

Josh Schmidt, the chief attorney for Interdigital, stated that Disney should appropriately compensate his company for the use of advanced video coding technologies. These technologies allow streaming services like Disney Plus to justify higher subscription prices.

Currently, the value of the premium subscription has diminished, as users are receiving only the ability to access multiple streams and enhanced audio. Notably, Dolby Atmos is available for many films but is primarily offered in English.

Legal Actions Considered

The Niedersachsen Consumer Center has taken issue with Disney for not being transparent in its advertising regarding these limitations. They are now considering legal actions due to the absence of high-resolution options on Disney Plus, as noted by legal expert Markus Hagge from heise.de.

Customers may also seek refunds due to the decline in image and sound quality. According to the Consumer Center, the reason for this reduced quality is irrelevant for consumers. Legally, Disney Plus, as the contract partner, is responsible for delivering the advertised and paid quality, as indicated by a spokesperson from the Consumer Center in spring 2026 to DPA.