Back in December of last year, it was discovered that the OnePlus 5 and 5T can’t stream HD videos from Netflix, Amazon and other streaming services.
The problem is the phones don’t ship with the WidevIne Level 1 DRM that these services require for HD playback, so videos are only played at standard definition (480p).
There’s a fix available, but users will have to jump through hoops to get it.
A OnePlus staff member states the DRM software has to be installed from a trusted computer at the factory, so users will need to mail their devices back to OnePlus.
“We have good news for you on this, we’ve just rolled out a program to update OnePlus 5 and OnePlus 5T handsets. Due to the security processes involved with updating the devices, we can only deliver the update via a physical connection from an authenticated PC. If you are interested in this update, please contact our CS team for more information.
We’re covering the courier costs for OnePlus 5 and OnePlus 5T customers who would like the update, as you will need to send your device to us to update. We have a process in place which means we’ll have your handset back to you in no more than five working days from when we receive it. We’ve worked hard to streamline this process as much as possible, and because of this we’re unable to cover the courier costs for customers outside of our service regions, which are North America, Europe, India, and China.
Edit: Hey guys, we understand this is not a handy approach, but it is the only option we have.”
The process is consistent with how to enable Widevine Level 1, the most secure level of Google’s Widevine DRM system. Widevine Level 1 encryption requires a hardware encryption key to be installed directly from either the factory or secure PCs. You cannot enable Widevine Level 1 encryption with a software update or by sideloading a ROM.
Streaming services like Google Play Movies, Netflix, and Amazon Video use the Widevine DRM system to protect copyright material.
The company is covering shipping costs, but users will still need a spare smartphone to use for a few days. It’s unfortunate that this fix can’t be delivered over the air, but this isn’t the first time a DRM system has inconvenienced consumers.
There also hasn’t been any word if new OnePlus 5T’s will have the DRM system preloaded.
