Posted Tue Sep 10, 2013 at 09:00 AM PDT by Steven Cohen
The company's UHD video download service is now live and two new 4K TV models have been released.
While recent price reductions for Ultra HD televisions have been appreciated, many potential consumers have been troubled by an overall lack of true 4K content. Thankfully, Sony has finally made steps to rectify this issue, fully launching its own UHD download service. Dubbed "Video Unlimited 4K," the service works through Sony's currently available FMP-X1 4K Ultra HD Media Player ($699 or $499 with the purchase of a Sony 4K TV), and allows users to rent or purchase select movies and TV shows in full Ultra HD resolution.
Over 70 titles are currently available, including TV series like 'Breaking Bad,' contemporary blockbusters like 'The Amazing Spider-Man,' and classics like 'The Guns of Navarone.' In addition, the download service will offer new releases as well, including upcoming movies like 'This is the End' and 'Elysium.' The full selection is expected to expand beyond 100 titles by the end of the year.
Video Unlimited 4K is only accessible through Sony Ultra HD televisions using the Sony FMP-X1 Media Player and will not work on other manufacturers' 4K displays. Pricing starts out at $3.99 for TV episodes, and then moves up to $7.99 for 24-hour movie rentals and $29.99 for movie purchases.
In conjunction with the launch of its new Ultra HD download service, Sony has also announced the release of two new 4K TV models. The 55-inch XBR55X850A ($3,498) and the 65-inch XBR65X850A ($4,998) are both now available, offering buyers a more streamlined and affordable UHD display option. Beyond their cheaper prices, the new sets also do away with the space consuming integrated magnetic fluid speaker systems found on the company's other 4K models.
Like its previous 4K units, these new sets also feature 3,840 x 2,160 displays, giving them about four times the pixels of a traditional 1080p HDTV. In addition, the televisions include Smart TV functions and are based on LED technology with edge-lit local dimming capabilities.
Source: Sony
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