Dolby Laboratories has launched Dolby Vision 2, the successor to its flagship HDR technology, with official announcement dated 2 September 2025. This update centres on a redesigned Dolby Image Engine and introduces Content Intelligence, an AI-powered system that dynamically optimises image quality by adapting to the content type, viewing environment, and device capabilities.
Content Intelligence includes features such as Precision Black, which enhances visibility in very dark scenes without undermining the creative intent, and Light Sense, which combines ambient light detection with reference lighting data embedded in the content to fine-tune display output. The standard also introduces bi-directional tone mapping, allowing creators to better utilise modern TVs’ wider brightness and colour capabilities while maintaining artistic vision.
A key innovation is Authentic Motion, described as the first “creative driven motion control tool”, enabling scene-by-scene adjustment of motion handling to reduce judder and avoid the so-called “soap-opera effect” while preserving a cinematic feel. Dolby claims backward compatibility with existing Dolby Vision content, though only TVs equipped with Dolby Vision 2 can take advantage of the new metadata and feature set.
Two Tiers: Vision 2 Standard and Max
Dolby Vision 2 will be available in two tiers for display manufacturers. Dolby Vision 2 Max is intended for premium, high-performance televisions, incorporating additional advanced features to fully exploit modern display hardware. Dolby Vision 2 (Standard) targets broader, mainstream TVs with core enhancements enabled by the new image engine and Content Intelligence.
Industry Rollout: Hisense Leads, CANAL+ Supports
Hisense will be the first television brand to ship Dolby Vision 2 capable sets, powered by the MediaTek Pentonic 800 SoC with the MiraVision Pro picture-quality engine integrated. Timing and pricing details are not yet specified.
CANAL+, the French media group, is the first content provider committed to offering its full range—including films, series, and live sports—in Dolby Vision 2.
Summary for Production Professionals
Dolby Vision 2 delivers tangible enhancements for content creators and post-production professionals. The AI-driven Content Intelligence suite—including ambient-aware adjustments and tone-mapping—reduces the need for manual, scene-by-scene calibration. Authentic Motion offers granular motion-control, promising cinematic motion integrity that could streamline grading and mastering workflows.
That said, actual benefit depends on hardware adoption. Only Vision 2-enabled devices will leverage the new metadata. Hisense is first in line, with availability expected in 2026, starting with premium models, and broader market penetration toward 2027.
