The BBC has this month started testing 4K Ultra HD broadcasts and is now asking certain BBC iPlayer users who are using one of the currently supported 4K TVs to partake in the experiment. This exciting opportunity allows viewers to experience the stunning documentary Planet Earth II, which has been filmed in Ultra HD, showcasing the incredible detail and vibrant colors that 4K technology can offer.
The BBC iPlayer 4K experimental footage will be available to view in Ultra HD and Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) on compatible connected TVs from today until early next year. This initiative marks a significant step forward in broadcasting technology, as it aims to deliver a more immersive and visually striking viewing experience to audiences.
Supported TV Models
The Wired website explains that the currently supported TV models take the form of the:
Panasonic, CX680 Series, CX700 series, CR730 series, CX800 series, CR852 series, CZ950 Series, DX902 Series (65,58,50), DR852 series (65,55), DX802 series (58,50), DX750 series (65,58,50), Dx720 series (58, 50), DX700 Series (58,50), DX680 Series (55,49,40) and DX650 series (55,49,40).
These models have been specifically chosen for their ability to handle the advanced requirements of 4K and HLG content. HLG, or Hybrid Log-Gamma, was developed by BBC R&D and Japanese broadcaster NHK. It was recently included in the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) HDR-TV standard, which sets the guidelines for high dynamic range (HDR) television.
What is Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG)?
Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) is a high dynamic range (HDR) standard that is particularly well-suited for broadcast television. Unlike other HDR formats, HLG is backward compatible with standard dynamic range (SDR) displays, meaning that it can be broadcast over existing infrastructure without the need for significant upgrades. This makes it an ideal choice for broadcasters looking to deliver HDR content to a wide audience.
HLG works by using a logarithmic curve for the higher end of the signal range, which allows for greater detail in bright areas of the image. This results in a more natural and lifelike picture, with enhanced contrast and color accuracy. The inclusion of HLG in the ITU’s HDR-TV standard is a testament to its potential to revolutionize the way we experience television.
The Future of 4K Broadcasting
The BBC’s experiment with 4K Ultra HD and HLG is just the beginning of what promises to be a transformative period for television broadcasting. As more content is produced in 4K and more households acquire compatible TVs, the demand for high-quality, immersive viewing experiences will continue to grow. This experiment not only provides valuable data for the BBC but also sets the stage for future advancements in broadcasting technology.
For viewers, the opportunity to watch Planet Earth II in 4K Ultra HD is a glimpse into the future of television. The documentary, known for its breathtaking cinematography and stunning visuals, is the perfect showcase for the capabilities of 4K technology. From the intricate details of wildlife to the expansive landscapes, every scene is brought to life with unprecedented clarity and vibrancy.
The BBC’s 4K Ultra HD experiment is a significant milestone in the evolution of television broadcasting. By leveraging advanced technologies like HLG, the BBC is paving the way for a new era of high-quality, immersive viewing experiences. As the experiment progresses, it will be interesting to see how these technologies are adopted and integrated into mainstream broadcasting, ultimately enhancing the way we watch and enjoy television.
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