CES really focused on the internet of things this year with products on display for the connected home, cars, and various other devices that utilize cloud technology. And while CES 2016 was less about TVs (even with 4k finally seeing an emergence in the mainstream), there were plenty of models on display including large showings from notably Samsung and LG. Car audio, drones, virtual reality, and wearable tech (with the exception of smart watches), were also hot topics at CES. Here are some highlights from the technology and entertainment industries.
The Week In Tech (CES Edition)
First 4k Broadcasts Over-the-Air
In the first major display of transmitted 4k programming over-the-air (OTA), both LG and Samsung showed UHD content from local TV stations utilizing the new ATSC 3.0 standard with HEVC (H.265) video compression. Read more
Sony Announces 4k Streaming Service
Sony’s new 4k service named “Ultra” sounds a lot like their existing Video Unlimited service, but the difference is users will be able to stream movies instead of download — potentially saving gigabytes of personal hard drive space. But what Sony didn’t bring was an Ultra HD Blu-ray player to support their upcoming Ultra HD Blu-ray titles. Hmm. Read more
HTC Vive & Oculus Rift highlight Virtual Reality
The HTC Vive is a VR system that lets you walk around a limited area and experience a virtual reality. And, unlike competitors comes with rig accessories and two VR controllers that are each like half a game controller. Of course, Oculus Rift also impressed attendees, especially with its virtual sandbox. View more (Gamespot video)
LG Shows New 4k Super UHD TVs
LG made an impressive showing at CES, unveiling four distinct series under their new “LG SUPER UHD” brand. With sizes ranging from 55-inch to 86-inch class screens, the 4k TVs incorporate HDR Plus and upscaling technology. And, the company’s 77-inch flat OLED 4K TV (77G6) was voted an Innovation Honoree. Read more
Dish 2TB Hopper 3 and Hopper Go Introduced
Dish introduced its Hopper 3 whole-home HD-DVR with 2TB hard drive space and the ability to record up to 16 shows at once. The Hopper 3 also has seven times more processing and supports 4K content at 60fps. And, a portable hard drive called the Hopper Go for iOS and Android devices was on display. Read more (Multichannel)
Netflix Expands to 190 Countries Worldwide
During a keynote from Netflix, Chief Executive Reed Hastings this week Netflix literally flipped the switch to add service to over 130 counties worldwide. China was one country that hasn’t been added but you can bet Hastings is working on getting clearance there. Read more
Samsung & Panasonic Ultra HD Blu-ray Players
Both Samsung and Panasonic brought Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc players to CES, and the quality certainly did not disappoint. But while Samsung’s UHD BD player is already available to pre-order, Panasonic’s was still just a demo. Read more (Samsung) | Read more (Panasonic)
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