How does 4K Netflix streaming sounds on PC? You might want to skip your smart TV for your computer. Microsoft just announced that Netflix contents can now be streamed exclusively on Microsoft Edge. Specifically, the streaming media provider's 4K catalog will be available through the Windows 10 browser including the new Gilmore Girl episodes.
Microsoft posted that compatible Windows 10 devices will be streaming the 4K content from Netflix. That includes PCs and 2-in-1s. As for the Gilmore Girls loyal fans, you can use your Microsoft Edge browser to access the new Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life. The show is set to premiere on Nov. 25. The tech company boasts that Microsoft Edge is the "only browser that supports Netflix 4K content".
Likewise, Microsoft claims that streaming on Edge will allow the viewer "at least one more full episode of Gilmore Girls than when streaming on Chrome" on battery. Though it has a disclaimer that the longevity of the battery differs depending on settings and other factors.
Among the system requirement needed for the 4K streaming on Microsoft Edge include a device with a 4K display and is powered by a seventh-generation Intel Core Processor. If you don't have a device with those specifications, you are advised to head over to Microsoft Stores. You need to purchase a new Windows 10 device that supports 4K streaming.
According to the Windows Central, this is not the first time Netflix singled out Microsoft Edge. Apparently, the browser was the only browser that streamed Netflix shows in full 1080p resolution. Edge's fiercest rivals Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox were only able to support up to 720p.
Those who are using Chrome and Firefox might have to switch to Edge. However, it remains to be seen if Microsoft's move will help Edge past Chrome and Firefox. According to Stats Counter, Google's web browser had a 50.9 percent global usage share in October. Firefox only had 7.14 percent. Edge had the lowest share at 1.58 percent.
With Net MarketShare, 54.99 percent of worldwide desktop browser market share was for Chrome, 11.14 percent for Firefox and a 5.26 percent for Edge. Though it should be noted that there are still a lot of people who are using Microsoft's previous browser Internet Explorer. Not everyone has upgraded and moved to the newer Edge.
Once IE becomes obsolete, Microsoft Edge is expected to gain market share. But it will take a lot more to get ahead of Chrome. The fact that streaming service is a growing market, Edge could capitalize on that with the 4K Netflix streaming.
