OnePlus 6, Xiaomi Mi 8, Galaxy Note 9, & more are YouTube Signature Devices

XDA

By Idrees Patel

Published Aug 10, 2018

YouTube has launched the YouTube Signature program. The Galaxy Note 9, OnePlus 6, Xiaomi Mi 8, and more YouTube Signature Devices for the best experience.

Earlier today, Samsung stated that the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is a YouTube Signature Device at the Unpacked event. YouTube has now launched a new Device Report website, where the company lists phones that have a best-in-class YouTube experience. The company states that its teams conducts "rigorous testing," and it also works with manufacturers to improve video playback performance.

The YouTube Device Report currently lists 18 smartphones from Samsung, OnePlus, LG, Sony, HTC, Huawei, Xiaomi, Google, and Nokia. These phones are said to deliver the best experience and are termed as Signature Devices. To be classified as a Signature Device, a phone must support six technologies, including HDR, 360° video, 4K decoding, high frame rate, the VP9 codec, and DRM performance. Google notes the following details about the technologies:

HDR: With support for High Dynamic Range (HDR), you’ll see videos that are richer in detail, with true-to-life colors. HDR capabilities allow a phone to display greater contrast, so you can see details of a videos, whether that scene is shot in the dark, or bright light.
360° video: Immerse yourself in a new world with 360° videos, which have been recorded in all directions. Look up, down, or all around; with 360° videos you’re in control of the viewing experience, through on-screen controls or through a VR headset.
4K decoding: While some devices display 4K on their screens, 4K decoding ensures that you’ll see videos in high resolution and stunning clarity on VR, delivering riveting experiences.
High frame rate: Enjoy gaming, sports, and action videos without missing a beat. Support for high frame rate (anything greater than 60 frames per second) means you get super smooth video playback.
Next generation video codecs: Watch high resolution videos on YouTube while using up to 30% less bandwidth. 2019 Signature Devices are built with hardware VP9 profile 2 decoding, an advanced video codec technology.
Digital rights management performance: From YouTube TV to rental movies, Signature Devices seamlessly stream premium content without disrupting your viewing experience.