Jio Hotstar is facing criticism from Indian subscribers for providing subpar streaming quality, even to those paying for its premium service.
While the same content is available in 4K UHD with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos outside India, users here are restricted to 1080p resolution, low frame rates, and stereo sound.
Many subscribers have taken to Twitter to express their dissatisfaction, accusing the platform of limiting app users to 25 FPS while offering 50 FPS exclusively to Jio Set-Top Box (STB) users.
This has led to allegations of unfair treatment, with users questioning why they are not getting the premium experience they paid ₹1,499 annually for.
When HBO content was previously available on Hotstar (before its transition to JioCinema), it maintained better quality.
Now, many are speculating whether Jio Hotstar failed to secure the proper rights for high-resolution and enhanced audio formats. As a result, some frustrated users have admitted to resorting to piracy to access better-quality versions of the content they legally paid for.
Meanwhile, Prime Video appears to be emerging as a strong competitor in the Indian market. While not all titles on Prime Video are available in 4K or Dolby Vision, the platform still boasts a substantial collection of 4K HDR content.
More importantly, it delivers better audio quality, ensuring a truly immersive and authentic 5.1 surround sound experience when supported.
With Jio Hotstar facing increasing criticism, Prime Video has an opportunity to capture a larger share of the market by consistently delivering high-quality streaming.
Jio Hotstar has yet to address these complaints, but unless the platform improves its offerings, Indian subscribers may continue looking for better alternatives.
Please investigate.Interesting.Thanks for the tip!
So @JioHotstar deleted the post, don’t know why.
While they provide 1080p content with low FPS and stereo sound, the same content is available in 4K UHD Dolby Vision & Atmos outside India.#Jiohotstar just dump mediocre quality to its premium users. #TheWhiteLotus3 pic.twitter.com/p2yM4Pmi61
— Parth Chaturvedi (@ParthChturvedi) February 17, 2025
