Netflix and other services such as Amazon Prime Video are protected by digital rights management, or DRM services, and on Android require the most secure level of Google’s Widevine DRM solution (Widevine Level 1) in order to deliver HD (720p+) video content to Android devices.
Types of DRM
- Widewine
L1 – requires hardware-backed DRM measures to process protected content ( Required for 720p+ video streaming )
L3 – the rock bottom security tier used for protecting SD (480p and lower) video and standard quality media - Microsoft Playready
Digital Rights Management (DRM) is crucial for protecting digital content from unauthorized access and piracy. If you’re streaming video or audio on your Android device, DRM ensures that the content is securely delivered and played. This guide will walk you through understanding Android DRM info and how to check your device’s DRM capabilities.
What is DRM?
DRM stands for Digital Rights Management. It is a set of access control technologies used by hardware manufacturers, publishers, and copyright holders to restrict the usage of proprietary hardware and copyrighted works. DRM technology aims to protect digital content by ensuring that it is not copied, shared, or distributed without authorization.
Why is DRM Important for Android Devices?
For Android devices, DRM is particularly important because:
- It enables content providers to securely distribute their media.
- It ensures a consistent and high-quality user experience.
- It helps in meeting legal and licensing requirements.
Types of DRM Used in Android Devices
- Google Widevine
- Used for streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video.
- Supports three security levels: L1, L2, and L3.
- L1 offers the highest level of security, enabling HD and UHD streaming.
- Microsoft PlayReady
- Used by services like Hulu and HBO Go.
- Provides similar security features as Widevine.
- Adobe Primetime
- Commonly used in streaming applications and video-on-demand services.
How to Check Your Device’s DRM Capabilities
To check the DRM capabilities of your Android device, you can use an application called DRM Info. – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.androidfung.drminfo&hl=en
Here’s how to do it:
- Download and Install DRM Info
- Go to the Google Play Store.
- Search for “DRM Info” by Android Fung.
- Download and install the app.
- Open DRM Info
- Launch the DRM Info app.
- It will automatically analyze your device and display detailed information about the DRM modules supported.
- Interpreting the Results
- The app will show you the DRM engines supported, such as Widevine, PlayReady, and Adobe Primetime.
- It will also display the security level for each DRM engine.
- For Widevine, check if your device supports L1 (for HD/UHD content) or L3 (for SD content).
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
- DRM Info App Not Showing Data
- Ensure that your device is connected to the internet.
- Restart your device and try again.
- Device Doesn’t Support L1 Security
- Some devices, especially budget models, might only support L3 security.
- For HD streaming, consider upgrading to a device with L1 support.
- Streaming App Not Working
- Ensure your app is updated to the latest version.
- Check your internet connection.
- Verify that your subscription is active.
Understanding and checking your Android device’s DRM capabilities is essential for ensuring a seamless and secure streaming experience. By using the DRM Info app, you can easily see what DRM technologies your device supports and make informed decisions about content consumption.