Dolby Laboratories has unveiled Dolby Vision 2, a significant evolution of its high dynamic range (HDR) technology that strategically incorporates artificial intelligence to automate and enhance picture quality in real time.[1][2] The next-generation format moves beyond the dynamic metadata approach of its predecessor, introducing an AI-powered engine called Content Intelligence designed to analyze both the content being displayed and the viewer's environment.[3][4][1] This new system aims to deliver a more optimized and authentic viewing experience by automatically adjusting image parameters, addressing common viewer frustrations and providing content creators with more powerful tools.[3][5][1] The announcement signals a pivotal shift in HDR technology, betting on machine learning to bridge the gap between creative intent and the living room display.[6]

At the core of Dolby Vision 2 is the new Content Intelligence system, which utilizes AI to automatically fine-tune picture settings.[3][4] This marks a major leap from the previous Dolby Vision IQ, which primarily used a TV's light sensor to make adjustments.[1] The new AI-driven suite is more sophisticated, analyzing the genre of the content—whether it's a movie, live sport, or video game—and cross-referencing it with the room's ambient lighting conditions to tailor the image precisely.[1][2] A key feature within this system is "Precision Black," a technology specifically designed to improve clarity in dark scenes, tackling the common complaint that HDR content can sometimes appear too dark, especially in well-lit rooms.[3][5] Dolby asserts this enhancement is achieved without compromising the filmmaker's artistic vision.[5] Another component, "Light Sense," expands upon previous ambient light detection by using both the TV's sensors and reference lighting data from the source content for more accurate and nuanced adjustments.[3][5]

Beyond environmental and content-aware adjustments, Dolby Vision 2 introduces new tools aimed at giving creators more control while ensuring that the latest advancements in display technology are fully utilized. The system features a redesigned image engine that works with new bi-directional tone mapping.[7][4] This allows creators to better leverage the increased brightness, sharper contrast, and wider color gamuts of modern high-performance televisions, preserving their original creative vision on these more capable displays.[7][4] Furthermore, Dolby is introducing "Authentic Motion," which it describes as the world's first creative-driven motion control tool.[4][8] This feature will allow filmmakers to manage motion on a shot-by-shot basis during the mastering process, reducing unwanted judder while maintaining a cinematic feel, rather than relying on global motion settings on the television itself.[4][9] The platform also includes dedicated optimization modes for sports and gaming, which feature specific white point adjustments and motion control settings to better handle fast-paced live broadcasts and interactive content.[4][5][6]

To cater to a wider market, Dolby Vision 2 will be available in two tiers.[10] The standard "Dolby Vision 2" tier is designed to bring the core benefits of the new image engine and Content Intelligence to mainstream televisions.[7][11] A premium tier, "Dolby Vision 2 Max," is aimed at the highest-performing displays and will include additional features, such as bi-directional tone mapping and Authentic Motion, designed to unlock the full potential of cutting-edge TV hardware.[10][7][5] The initial rollout has secured key industry partners.[7] Hisense will be the first television manufacturer to incorporate Dolby Vision 2 into its lineup, specifically its RGB-MiniLED TVs.[10][4] These sets will be powered by MediaTek's new Pentonic 800 chip, the first silicon to integrate Dolby Vision 2.[10][7] On the content side, French media company Canal+ has committed to supporting the new format for its movies, series, and live sports broadcasts.[4] This launch positions Dolby to compete with other HDR standards like HDR10+ while pushing the industry toward a more intelligent and automated approach to picture quality.[4]