FIXED: Auto HDR not Working on Windows 11

The Auto High Dynamic Range (HDR), which has the ability to display a broad range of colors and brightness, has become popular among photographers, gamers, and movie enthusiasts because of its immersive and realistic viewing experience.

But despite the many benefits that Auto HDR provides, many users still complain that the HDR doesn’t work correctly. This can frustrate many users, especially those who depend on this feature for work or entertainment.

In this article, we will go through some of the common causes of this problem and provide the necessary troubleshooting techniques to overcome this issue.

What do I do if Windows 11 auto HDR is not working?

1. Adjust settings to enable Auto HDR

1. Launch your Settings app by holding the Windows + I keys simultaneously and choose the Display option on the right side of your screen.
   
2. Select HDR.
   
3. Make sure that the Auto HDR toggle is enabled.
   
4. Now check to see if Auto HDR is now working.

2. Verify your display and HDMI port

When attempting to run HDR applications on hardware that supports HDR, Windows 11, users may encounter difficulties. Utilizing an HDMI cable that does not support HDMI 2.0b results in the issue.

So, to ensure that HDR runs on your system, use cables that support HDMI 2.0b. This will ensure that HDR runs perfectly without any problems. If you are using the right cables and the problem persists, follow the next step below.

3. Install a new color profile for your monitor

1. Hold the Windows + I keys simultaneously to open the Settings app, type color management, then choose the relevant option.
   
2. Choose your monitor from the drop-down menu on the right side of the Device option.
   
3. Click the Add button, then select Browse to choose the file that you downloaded.
   
4. Click on the new color profile to highlight it, then choose Set as Default Profile.
   
5. Close the Color Management panel to see if the Auto HDR works.

4. Use a display compatible with Auto HDR

Windows 11 requires certain specifications for your monitor, HDMI, and DisplayPort, among other things, to play HDR with sharp and vibrant colors. In the absence of support, HDR is ineffective.

A minimum of 1080p resolution and a recommended maximum brightness of 300 nits are required for the built-in display.

For external displays, the HDR display or TV must support HDR10 and DisplayPort 1 point4 or HDMI 2 point0 or higher.

For protected HDR content, the Windows 11 device must have an integrated graphics card that supports PlayReady hardware digital rights management, as well as the necessary codecs for 10-bit video decoding installed.

5. Update your display drivers

1. In the search bar, type device manager and click the related option to open.
   
2. Click the little arrow next to the Display adapters option to see more options.
   
3. Right-click your adapter and select Scan for hardware changes.
   
4. Allow Windows to automatically search for your system’s latest driver and install it.
   
   

6. Update your Operating system

1. Hold the Windows + X keys simultaneously and select Settings.
   
2. On the left side of your screen, select Windows Update.
   
3. Click the Check for updates option.
   
4. If there are any available updates, follow the on-screen instructions to install them.

Why is auto HDR not working in Windows 11?

There are many reasons why HDR might not be working on your Windows 11 device. Some of the major causes include:

• Unsupported HDMI cables – Auto HDR might not work using unsupported HDMI cables.
• HDR is not supported and enabled on your device – You could be facing this problem because your device does not support this feature or is not enabled.
• Outdated Windows operating system – If your device’s operating system is obsolete, the Auto HDR feature might not work as it should.
• Outdated display devices – If your display adapters are outdated, you will encounter this problem.
• Virus infection – If your device has been infected, you could face a lot of trouble, including HDR not working.

Is Windows 11 auto HDR good?

Windows 11 Auto HDR is good when you use it with the right monitor. The best HDR monitor for using auto HDR is difficult to find, and they are also expensive.

For the full benefits of Auto HDR, you will need an OLED or Mini-LED display with a maximum peak brightness of at least 1,000 nits. Sadly, most monitors fall far short of this standard.

When used with a good HDR display, auto HDR can be noticeable, and its advantages are most apparent in games with high-contrast environments.

At least, Auto HDR has no disadvantages. However, the feature is optional and can be turned off if there is a problem. The benefit can vary from being substantial to being negligible.

If you’re considering upgrading to Windows 11 for Auto HDR, ask yourself if you have a monitor with a peak brightness of at least 1,000 nits. If so, you should upgrade to Windows 11 for Auto HDR. Otherwise, put off installing Windows 11 and spend your money on a new monitor.

In conclusion, we have gone through the major causes of the Auto HDR not working and how to overcome this obstacle. Diligently follow the steps listed in this article to fix your Auto HDR and continue enjoying this great feature.