Orange is rolling out a major improvement for users of its TV app on many devices, now providing better image quality. This development, identified by the specialist site Univers Livebox, makes using the app more attractive, particularly on large screens. It also aligns with the quality displayed by the operator's TV decoders.
HD+ arrives on the application
The major improvement lies in the introduction of "HD+" quality on several channels via the Orange TV application. According to the Orange support site, HD+ corresponds to a Full HD (1920×1080) stream of 10 Mb/s capable of offering "better image quality than the 5 Mb/s stream of HD". This TV stream also outperforms standard definition (2.4 Mb/s) and boasts better sharpness, a sharper image and better quality rendering, especially on large screens. According to analyses by the specialist site Univers Livebox, the main DTT channels now broadcast between 6 and 12 Mb/s via the application on connected TVs. The quality is considered significantly superior to that offered when the application was launched.
While not all channels yet benefit from HD+, the main DTT channels, as well as certain paid offers like beIN Sports, are among the first to offer this improved quality. It should be noted that the Orange website, which has not been updated for several years, may not list all compatible channels. Another improvement concerns replay content, which is now offered in HD, whereas it was previously in standard definition (SD). HD+ replay is not yet available, but the improvement remains notable for users.
To benefit from this improved quality, you must have version 11.4 of the Orange application. The latter is accessible from many platforms:
- Apple TV under tvOS
- Android TV / Google TV, including Sony, Hisense, TCL, Philips, Xiaomi TVs, as well as devices like Chromecast, Nvidia Shield or Google TV Streamer 4K
- Samsung for TVs, under Tizen OS, released after 2019
The application is unfortunately not yet available on all platforms, including LG TVs under webOS. Orange is reportedly working on ports for webOS and Fire OS (Amazon devices), according to Univers Livebox.
The end of TV decoders is confirmed
This improvement in quality is part of Orange's strategy to make access to its TV service simpler, without using a TV decoder. Since the beginning of April 2025, the operator has made access to the Orange TV application free for all its Livebox customers with a decoder, whereas previously it was necessary to subscribe to an option at 5 euros per month. This decision, which comes alongside the launch of the new Livebox 7 and Livebox S, seems to pave the way for reducing reliance on physical decoders, which could gradually become optional. With this new feature, Orange is also aligning itself with its competitors like Free (with OQEE).
Also read: Orange boosts its Livebox offers: which one to choose between Livebox Up and Livebox Max?
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