4K broadcasting has already begun

Of course, all the advantages in the world would mean nothing if there wasn’t content to begin with, and this is where we’re starting to see rapid change. A “Saracens versus Gloucester” rugby match was beamed live from the grounds in North West London to the RAI center in Amsterdam last year, where it was watched by IBC delegates as the world’s first live 4K 60p multi- camera sports broadcast.

Last year’s Wimbledon tournament was covered in 4K and transmitted out to a Sony 4K Experience Center on the grounds, allowing the public a chance to experience all the added detail and Sony a chance to indulge in a bit of “microtising”. Mini advertisements were printed on the fingernails and shoe laces of some of the female players; details that were only visible on screen thanks to the added resolution of 4K.

And let’s not forget the currently on-going World Cup. Globo Comunicacao & Participacoes SA, Brazil’s largest broadcaster has installed special 65-inch screens in Rio de Janerio’s Jarim Botanico neighborhood for live 4K broadcast of matches, while Japan’s NHK network has also announced plans to bring the World Cup to Japanese viewers in 4K. Finally, Sony is working with FIFA to cover three key matches in 4K ( including the finals) to be later compiled into a feature film.