It has been reported today by the Asahi Times, that the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications in Japan has announced that they will start streaming 4K television pictures during the finals of the football World Cup in Brazil in July 2014.
Two years ahead of when the Japanese were first planning to launch their new ultra high definition 4K broadcasting, which was originally destined to be started in 2016.
The first ultra high definition 4K broadcasting has been brought forward in the hope that it will encourage consumers to purchase the new 4K televisions that are already on sale in Japan and created by Japanese manufacturers including Sony, Toshiba, Panasonic, and Sharp together with Korean manufacturers such as LG. Prices for these new ultra high definition 4K start at around $25,000.
The Significance of 4K Broadcasting
4K broadcasting represents a significant leap in television technology, offering a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, which is four times the resolution of the standard 1080p HD. This means that viewers can enjoy incredibly detailed and lifelike images, making the viewing experience much more immersive. The decision to broadcast the World Cup finals in 4K is particularly strategic, as it is one of the most-watched sporting events globally, ensuring maximum exposure for the new technology.
The Japanese government and manufacturers are keen to showcase the capabilities of 4K technology to a broad audience. By doing so, they hope to drive consumer interest and adoption, which is crucial for the success of this new technology. The World Cup, with its massive viewership, provides the perfect platform to demonstrate the advantages of 4K broadcasting.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the introduction of 4K broadcasting is exciting, it also comes with its set of challenges. One of the primary concerns is the high cost of 4K televisions, which start at around $25,000. This price point is prohibitive for many consumers, limiting the initial market for 4K TVs. However, as with most new technologies, prices are expected to decrease over time as production scales up and more manufacturers enter the market.
Another challenge is the need for infrastructure upgrades to support 4K broadcasting. This includes not only the broadcasting equipment but also the internet bandwidth required to stream 4K content. Japan, known for its advanced technological infrastructure, is well-positioned to overcome these challenges, but it will still require significant investment and coordination.
On the flip side, the opportunities presented by 4K technology are immense. For content creators, 4K offers the ability to produce visually stunning content that can captivate audiences. For broadcasters, it provides a new way to differentiate their offerings and attract viewers. For consumers, it promises a more engaging and enjoyable viewing experience.
In addition to sports, other genres such as movies, documentaries, and even video games stand to benefit from 4K technology. The increased resolution can bring out details that were previously not visible, enhancing the overall quality of the content.
The decision by the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications to start streaming 4K television pictures during the World Cup finals in 2014 is a bold and strategic move. It not only positions Japan as a leader in broadcasting technology but also sets the stage for the widespread adoption of 4K televisions. While there are challenges to overcome, the potential benefits for consumers, broadcasters, and content creators are substantial.
Source: Tech Crunch : Asahi Times
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
