Next-generation TV gets a new name: Ultra HD

Consumer Electronics Assn. board approves the terminology, which replaces 4K.

The next generation of TV technology now has a consumer friendly name: Ultra HD.

The Consumer Electronics Assn. announced the new name Friday after its board unanimously approved the terminology. Ultra HD replaces 4K, the term the industry had been using for TVs with four times the resolution of current HD sets.

“Ultra HD is the next natural step forward in display technologies, offering consumers an incredibly immersive viewing experience with outstanding new levels of picture quality,” Gary Shapiro, the association’s chief executive said in a statement. “This new terminology and the recommended attributes will help consumers navigate the marketplace to find the TV that best meets their needs.”

The industry group said Ultra HD TVs must display at least 8 million pixels, or a resolution of 3,840 by 2,160 pixels. Current high-definition TVs have a resolution of 1,920 by 1,080 pixels. The minimum aspect ratio must be 16:9, and Ultra HD TVs must have digital inputs capable of carrying Ultra HD video content.

The industry is starting to push the technology, particularly for large TV sets, which lose clarity as they grow in size.

By year’s end, the first of the Ultra HD sets are expected to hit retail stores. Sony and LG are leading the charge, each with new 84inch TV sets.

Sony is gearing up to release the XBR-84X900 Ultra HD TV next month. The set, which is LED as well as 3-D capable, goes for $24,999. Pre-orders are available.

LG’s UD 84LM9600 is also set to arrive this year. The UD 84LM9600 is also LED and 3-D capable. It’s priced at $20,000, according to Home Media Magazine.