In order to make 4K content available for early adopters of Sony Electronics’ new “Ultra HD” TVs, the company has announced a new hard-disc server for loan that connects to Sony’s 84-inch 4K LED TV (XBR-84X900), allowing consumers to view 4K resolution movies and short form 4K videos.
The 4K Ultra HD Video Player comes pre-loaded with content, including a gallery of videos and the following collection of 10 full-length feature films presented in native 4K for the home:
- The Amazing Spiderman
- Total Recall (2012)
- The Karate Kid (2010)
- Salt
- Battle Los Angeles
- The Other Guys
- Bad Teacher
- That’s My Boy
- Taxi Driver
- The Bridge on the River Kwai
4K video shorts include Red Bull Media House’s }The Athlete Machine: Red Bull Kluge” and four acoustic performances of songs from Red Bull Records’ Heaven’s Basement’s new record, “Filthy Empire.” Additionally, Sony’s 4K Ultra HD delivery solution is designed to be updated with additional 4K titles and video clips. More delivery solutions will continue to evolve rapidly, with further product and content announcements coming shortly.
As a standalone unit, the Sony XBR-84X900 TV already upscales all video inputs, including the more than 7,000 Blu-ray Disc titles currently in distribution, to a near-4K resolution through the use of Sony’s proprietary 4K X-Reality PRO three-chip picture engine. Now, with the new video player, consumers can for the first time enjoy true 4K Ultra HD video in the home.
“Sony is a company of firsts, and this introduction of the first 4K technology platform continues that pioneering, innovative spirit,” said Phil Molyneux, president and chief operating officer of Sony Electronics. “We were the first to introduce 4K projectors to cinemas in 2005, the first to introduce a 4K projector designed for the home in 2011, and the first to offer a 4K upscaling Blu-ray Disc player earlier this year. Now, we’re the first to begin closing the content loop, offering native 4K content for the home and delivering the most immersive, awe-inspiring entertainment experience yet.”
“Sony Pictures leads the industry in building a library of new releases and restored classics mastered in 4K, so it is both exciting and appropriate that we can provide the first 4K movies that consumers will be able to experience in their homes,” said Chris Cookson, president, Sony Pictures Technologies.
“Sony is committed to delivering the finest 4K Ultra HD entertainment experiences to customers,” added Mike Lucas, senior vice president for Sony Electronics’ Home Division. “The launch of the 4K Ultra HD Home Experience is another world first for Sony, and will wow consumers with 4K Ultra HD content. It’s a proof point of our leadership in all things 4K, and the first step in creating a full, complete 4K Ultra HD solution for the home.”
— By Scott Hettrick