With the launch of the new iPad 3 and the Apple TV 3, Apple also added the ability to download and stream full HD video in 1080p in iTunes, and the guys over at Ars Technica have compared Apple’s new iTunes 1080p video to Blu-ray.
According to the report, the new iTunes 1080p was considerably better than the previous 720p offering in iTunes just as you would expect, and the quality was almost as good as that of Blu-ray. This is a significant improvement for Apple users who have been eagerly awaiting higher quality video streaming and downloading options. The jump from 720p to 1080p means that users can now enjoy a much sharper and more detailed viewing experience, which is particularly noticeable on larger screens.
Comparing iTunes 1080p to Blu-ray
The comparison between iTunes 1080p and Blu-ray is an interesting one. Blu-ray has long been considered the gold standard for high-definition video quality, offering unparalleled clarity and detail. However, the convenience of digital downloads and streaming has made services like iTunes increasingly popular. The Ars Technica report highlights that while Blu-ray still holds a slight edge in terms of absolute quality, the difference is minimal. For most viewers, the convenience of iTunes 1080p will outweigh the marginal quality difference.
One of the key factors in this comparison is the bitrate. Blu-ray discs typically have a higher bitrate than iTunes 1080p videos, which means they can deliver more data per second and thus higher quality. However, iTunes uses advanced compression techniques to maximize the quality of their 1080p videos while keeping file sizes manageable. This means that while Blu-ray might technically offer better quality, the difference is often imperceptible to the average viewer.
The Future of Digital Media
The introduction of 1080p video in iTunes is a clear indication of the future direction of digital media. As internet speeds continue to increase and more people have access to high-speed broadband, the demand for high-quality digital content will only grow. Apple’s move to offer 1080p video is a response to this demand and sets a new standard for digital video quality.
Moreover, the convenience of digital downloads and streaming cannot be overstated. With iTunes, users can purchase and download a movie in a matter of minutes, without having to leave their home. This is a stark contrast to the traditional method of purchasing or renting physical Blu-ray discs. Additionally, digital content can be easily stored and accessed on multiple devices, making it a more versatile option for consumers.
Head on over to Ars Technica to have a look at the full comparison photos between the two formats, and from the looks of it, there doesn’t seem to be much in it between the 1080p iTunes and Blu-ray. The detailed comparison photos show that while Blu-ray may have a slight edge in certain scenes, the overall quality of iTunes 1080p is remarkably close.
The launch of 1080p video in iTunes is a significant step forward for Apple and digital media as a whole. While Blu-ray may still hold the crown for absolute video quality, the convenience and accessibility of iTunes 1080p make it a highly attractive option for consumers. As technology continues to advance, it will be interesting to see how digital media evolves and whether it will eventually surpass physical media in terms of quality and popularity.
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