Since the majority of viewers won't be able to head to Brazil in person for the Rio Olympics this month, NHK, the Japanese public broadcaster, is doing what it can to present a live experience by offering 8K broadcasts. The ridiculously high-definition programming will be shown during Olympic broadcasts from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. every day during the Rio Olympics.
8K broadcasts are unheard of, even by modern broadcasting standards. The newest televisions on the market can support 4K, also known as ultra-HD broadcasts. At 7,680 by 4,320 pixels, 8K broadcasting has approximately four times better image resolution than 4K. Considering that no consumer televisions will be able to handle that degree of detail, NHK will be showing the 8K broadcasts at public viewing sites across Tokyo and Osaka.
What's Driving This Trend
- 8K Broadcasting
- The use of 8K broadcasting presents an opportunity for broadcasters to deliver unparalleled viewing experiences to their audiences.
- Public Viewing Sites
- As more broadcasters offer live events at public viewing sites, new business opportunities arise for companies looking to provide the necessary infrastructure or participate in outdoor advertising.
- Ultra-high Definition (UHD)
- The increasing demand for UHD content underscores the need for innovation in related technologies such as compression, file transfer, and display.
Who This Affects Most
- Broadcasting
- The 8K broadcasting trend presents an opportunity for broadcasters to differentiate themselves from their competitors by offering unparalleled live experiences.
- Outdoor Advertising
- As more live events are shown at public viewing sites, outdoor advertising companies have an opportunity to reach wider audiences and showcase their creativity.
- Consumer Electronics
- The increasing demand for UHD content presents an opportunity for consumer electronics companies to create and market higher resolution displays.
