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VIZIO Launches Reference Series 4K Ultra HD TVs with Dolby Vision HDR, Prices Start at $6,000[teaser]Pricing and availability have been revealed for the premium display series. [/teaser] VIZIO has detailed the latest addition to its 4K Ultra HD lineup. The new Reference Series offers advanced picture quality features like Dolby Vision and full-array local dimming. "VIZIO and Dolby have worked tirelessly together to make true High Dynamic Range a reality for consumers. The picture quality achieved with Dolby Vision on the VIZIO Reference Series is literally jaw-dropping and establishes a new level of excellence for the industry," said Matt McRae, Chief Technology Officer, VIZIO. "High Dynamic Range and Ultra Color Spectrum is enabled through proprietary, custom panel technologies creating a television that pushes the limits of contrast ratios and color gamut while redefining the level of picture quality available at home. VIZIO worked closely with partners like Dolby, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, VUDU and Netflix to ensure content was re-mastered to take advantage of the Reference Series' capabilities and ready to stream through VIZIO Internet Apps Plus®." The Reference Series is available in 65-inch ($6,000) and 120-inch ($130,000) models. Each Ultra HD panel features an 800-nit, full-array LED backlight with 384 active zones for superior black levels and brightness. Equipped with Dolby Vision, the displays also include support for High Dynamic Range (HDR) content with wide color gamuts, providing enhanced contrast with more realistic highlights and shadow detail. In addition, the 65-inch model uses quantum dot technology and incorporates an integrated 3-channel soundbar with separate rear satellites and a wireless subwoofer. Finally, the VIZIO Internet Apps Plus smart TV platform is implemented as well, allowing customers to enjoy Dolby Vision HDR streaming content from services like VUDU and Netflix. "Seeing our great titles remastered in 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision is very exciting," said Jim Wuthrich, President, Americas, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. "With the increased availability and popularity of 4K Ultra HD TV with High Dynamic Range, audiences can experience these extraordinary films in a new, engaging way that is remarkably bright, colorful and true-to-life." Newly announced Warner Bros. Dolby Vision VUDU titles include 'San Andreas,' 'Mad Max: Fury Road,' 'Magic Mike XXL,' 'Jupiter Ascending,' 'Man of Steel,' 'The Great Gatsby' and more. Likewise, Netflix also plans to offer the first season and upcoming second season of its original series, 'Marco Polo,' in Dolby Vision. Customers can now submit special orders for the Reference Series displays at VIZIO.com. Buyers will then be contacted by a local custom installer to arrange delivery and a white-glove setup service. Stay tuned to High-Def Digest for hands-on impressions of the Reference Series Displays soon! Source: VIZIOPosted Tue Oct 6, 2015 at 11:30 AM PDT by: -
Roku Reveals Roku 4 Streaming Player with 4K Ultra HD Support, Price Set at $130[teaser]The company's newest Roku model is now available for pre-order! [/teaser] Roku has announced the latest addition to its streaming player lineup. The upcoming Roku 4 features an updated OS and support for 4K Ultra HD media. "The Roku 4 is our best streaming player ever," said Roku Founder and CEO Anthony Wood. "It provides an amazing 4K experience with powerful performance and brilliant picture, at up to 60 frames per second on 4K TVs, and access to the most streaming channels with 4K entertainment, plus innovative features like Remote Finder. Powered by the new Roku OS 7, the Roku 4 gives consumers a new era of streaming performance and control over their entertainment." The streaming box is powered by a Quad-Core processor and features support for 4K Ultra HD playback at up to 60 fps, 4K upscaling of HD content, and audio support for up to Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 surround sound. HDCP 2.2 compliancy is integrated as well, along with 802.11ac MIMO dual-band wireless, 10/100 Base-T Ethernet, an Optical Audio Out, a microSD slot, and a USB port. Likewise, the device includes an enhanced remote with voice search, point anywhere use, a headphone jack, motion-control for gaming, and a speaker for Remote Finder alerts. In addition to the new hardware upgrades, the Roku 4 also uses the latest Roku OS 7, offering several new and improved features, including an enhanced Roku Feed that lets users follow specific movies, TV shows, actors and directors to receive automatic updates about pricing and availability. The OS also features a new Hotel and Dorm Connect option, making it possible to quickly connect the player to Wi-Fi in locations that require network log-in credentials. Finally, the Roku mobile app will receive a major upgrade as well, providing more control and on-the-go features. The Roku 4 is now available for pre-order for a suggested retail price of $130. The device is expected to start shipping on October 21. Sources: Roku 1, Roku 2Posted Tue Oct 6, 2015 at 02:30 AM PDT by: -
Integra Details DTM-40.7 Network Stereo Receiver with High-Res Audio Support, Price Set at $600[teaser]The new stereo receiver is designed for the custom installation market. [/teaser] Integra has announced the latest addition to its audio lineup. The DTM-40.7 is a Network Stereo Receiver with robust music streaming support. The 2-channel receiver is rated for 80 watts per channel at 8 ohms and 110 watts per channel at 6 ohms. Likewise, the device uses an AKM AK4452 384kHz/32-bit hi-grade DAC, a massive high-power transformer two custom-made 8,200 µF high-current capacitors, and a non-phase-shift amp design. Several custom installation friendly features are integrated as well, including Bi-Directional Ethernet, RS232 and programmable 12V triggers, Auto-Power On/Wake-Up via optical audio, and numerous Zone 2 options. Finally, the receiver also includes support for high-res audio playback, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, and popular music streaming services like Pandora, Spotify Connect, Slacker, SiriusXM, Deezer and TuneIn Radio. Integra's DTM-40.7 is now available for a suggested retail price of $600. The receiver will be showcased at the upcoming CEDIA 2015 tradeshow. Source: IntegraPosted Mon Oct 5, 2015 at 05:30 PM PDT by: -
HDMI Licensing Announces Premium HDMI Cable Certification Program for 4K Ultra HD Support[teaser]The company has developed a system to ensure cable quality for 4K Ultra HD content delivery. [/teaser] HDMI Licensing has launched a new Premium HDMI Cable Certification Program. The testing process is specially designed to guarantee cable quality, performance, and reliability for future 4K Ultra HD media. "With rapid growth of feature‐rich, 4K/UltraHD content, it's critical that all components in a 4K/UltraHD HDMI‐connected system are fully capable of delivering on the experience. That is why we are launching this proactive program to give consumers absolute peace‐of‐mind," said Jeff Park, HDMI Licensing, LLC's Technology Evangelist. With the new voluntary HDMI Cable Certification Program, participating HDMI cable suppliers can test their cables at an HDMI Authorized Testing Center (ATC). In order to achieve certification, the cables must pass new testing requirements to ensure reliability for the 18Gbps bandwidth of the HDMI 2.0 spec, offering full support for 4K Ultra HD content with wide color gamut and High Dynamic Range (CEA-861.3) features. Likewise, the program also includes new testing guidelines for EMI emission levels, which are designed to help reduce potential interference with wireless devices. In addition, cables that pass the certification process will include an advanced anti‐counterfeit label that incorporates a QR code that can be scanned by mobile apps to confirm authenticity -- ensuring their proper branding as certified "Premium High Speed HDMI Cables or Premium High Speed HDMI Cables with Ethernet." Here's a look at a sample certified cable label: “As they upgrade their equipment, consumers expect to fully enjoy the 4K/UltraHD features that the HDMI Specification enables. Consumers can easily identify Premium High Speed HDMI Cables and be confident that their new 4K/UltraHD TVs, sources and cables will deliver an ultra‐reliable, 4K/UltraHD experience," states Rob Tobias, President of HDMI Licensing, LLC. Though current HDMI cables should be able to deliver most forms of current 4K Ultra HD content without any issues, these new testing guidelines for upcoming cables will help minimize the possibilities for defects and counterfeits, while ensuring future support for evolving 4K standards. Speaking with High-Def Digest, Jeff Park and Rob Tobias emphasized the new testing system's proactive nature and stressed the program's goals to help customers future-proof their setups. The Premium HDMI Cable Certification Program is now active, and the first certified cables are expected to become available in early Q1 2016. Source: HDMIPosted Mon Oct 5, 2015 at 05:00 AM PDT by: -
Huawei & Google Introduce Nexus 6P Smartphone with WQHD AMOLED Display[teaser]Customers can pre-order the new smartphone now. [/teaser] Google and Huawei have announced the newest addition to the Nexus lineup. The Nexus 6P features an all-metal unibody design and uses the latest Android 6.0 Marshmallow OS. "Huawei is very excited to collaborate with Google and deliver a premium Nexus experience for the global market," said Richard Yu, CEO of Huawei Consumer Business Group. "We value the way consumers embrace mobile technology in all parts of their lives and have created a smartphone with great design, performance and seamless integration of Android 6.0 Marshmallow, the latest Android release." The handset features a 5.7-inch WQHD AMOLED screen with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 and 518ppi. Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 v2.1, 2.0 GHz Octa-core 64-bit CPU, an Adreno 430 GPU, 3 GB LPDDR4, and a 3,450 mAh battery. A 12.3MP rear camera with 4K video recording and an 8MP front camera are integrated as well. Finally, the device also includes a fingerprint sensor, dual front-facing stereo speakers, and a fast-charging reversible USB Type-C port. Huawei's Nexus 6P is now available for pre-order in 32GB ($499), 64GB ($549), and 128GB ($649) models through the Google Store. Sources: Huawei, GooglePosted Fri Oct 2, 2015 at 02:30 PM PDT by: -
Japan Display Unveils World's First 17-Inch 8K LCD Monitor[teaser]The upcoming display features an 8K panel. [/teaser] Japan Display has announced the development of a 17.3-inch 8K monitor. Thanks to its high pixel count and response time, the monitor is being geared toward video image production, medical applications, and gaming. The display features a 17.3-inch low temperature poly-silicon (LTPS) IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 7,680 x 4,320 (RGB stripe arrangement) and 510ppi. In addition, the monitor offers a 120Hz frame rate, 500cd/m2 luminance, and a contrast ratio of 2000:1. Thanks to the screen's wide viewing angle, contrast, colors, and resolution, the 8K image will provide a life-like picture with a strong sense of depth. More details have not been announced yet, but Japan Display's new 8K monitor will be showcased at the NHK/JEITA booth on October 7 - 10 during CEATEC JAPAN 2015 held at Makuhari Messe, Japan. Source: Japan Display via EngadgetPosted Fri Oct 2, 2015 at 01:45 PM PDT by: -
LG Reveals V10 Smartphone with Dual Front Cameras & Second Screen[teaser]The new smartphone has been designed with an emphasis on multimedia. [/teaser] LG has detailed its latest mobile device The V10 will be the first smartphone in the company's new V Series. "The LG V10 was designed from the ground up primarily as a multimedia smartphone for the sharing ecosystem," said Juno Cho, president and CEO of the LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. "We heard from many customers that until the G4, they weren't comfortable going on vacation or outings without a separate camera. With the V10, we hope to do for video what the G4 did for photographs." The V10 features a 5.7-inch QHD IPS Quantum Display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 and 513ppi. In addition, the phone includes an additional 2.1-inch IPS Quantum inset display with a resolution of 160 x 1040 and 513ppi. This Second Screen sits directly above the main screen and can be used as an "always on" display to showcase the weather, time, date, battery life, and shortcuts. Under the hood, the device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 Processor, 4GB LPDDR3 RAM, and a 3,000mAh removable battery running Android 5.1.1. A 16MP rear camera is integrated as well, along with 5MP Dual front cameras with two separate lenses to capture standard 80 degree selfies or 120 degree wide angle selfies. In addition, the phone features UHD video recording and includes a Manual Video mode that offers adjustment options for shutter speed, frame rate, ISO, white balance and focus. Exact pricing and availability have not been announced yet, but the LG V10 is expected to launch in Korea this month and then later expand to other markets including the US. Source: LGPosted Thu Oct 1, 2015 at 05:00 PM PDT by: -
Tribeca & Lionsgate Launch Tribeca Shortlist Streaming Service for $5 Per Month[teaser]The new streaming platform is now available. [/teaser] Tribeca and Lionsgate have officially launched their own subscription based video-on-demand streaming service. Tribeca Shortlist offers an ad-free collection of specially curated films. "We're taking a more human approach to movie discovery for viewers who want to escape the search spiral and find a great movie fast," said Jeff Bronikowski, President of Tribeca Shortlist. "We've found great movies that we're offering to subscribers as part of a high quality, highly curated movie catalog with exclusive "Shortlist" content that provides context and personal insight, like getting a recommendation from a trusted friend." The service features a library of more than 150 critically acclaimed titles that have been personally selected by various industry experts, filmmakers, and actors. These "Shortlister" curators also provide personal insights into their picks to help guide viewers through their recommendations. The collection is refreshed every month with a turnover of about 50 movies, offering films from Lionsgate, Tribeca Enterprises, and other major studios and independent sources. The current crop of movies includes titles like 'Crash,' 'City of God,' 'Chasing Amy,' 'Adventureland,' 'Dinosaur 13,' 'Amelie,' and 'The Producers.' Tribeca Shortlist is now available on PC, Mac, and iPad. Likewise, TV streaming is currently available through AirPlay and Chromecast. Support for Roku, Fire TV, iPhone, Apple TV, and Android devices will be rolled out in the coming months. The current subscription fee is $5 per month, but the cost will increase to $6 per month in 2016. New customers also receive a 14-day free trial. Source: Tribeca ShortlistPosted Thu Oct 1, 2015 at 01:00 PM PDT by: -
LG Details Nexus 5X Smartphone with Full HD Display & Android 6.0[teaser]The new smartphone is now available for pre-order. [/teaser] LG and Google have announced their latest addition to the Nexus lineup. The upcoming Nexus 5X will use the new Android 6.0 Marshmallow OS. "We are excited to be able to work with Google again on developing Nexus 5X, our best Nexus yet," said Juno Cho, president and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications. "This time, we wanted to deliver the best hardware for Google’s most advanced software and we're very proud of what we’ve accomplished together." The Nexus 5X features a 5.2-inch 1080p IPS display with 423ppi. Under the hood, the device is powered by a 1.8 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 808 CPU, 2GB LPDDR3 RAM, and a 2,700mAh embedded battery. A 12.3MP rear camera with 4K video recording and a 5MP front camera are included as well. In addition, the phone incorporates a fingerprint sensor for security and a Type-C USB port that can turn a 10-minute charge into enough power for almost four hours of battery life. LG's Nexus 5X smartphone is now available for pre-order through the Google Store in 16GB ($379) and 32GB ($429) models. Sources: LG, GooglePosted Thu Oct 1, 2015 at 11:00 AM PDT by: -
TiVo Announces TiVo BOLT Entertainment System with 4K Ultra HD Support, Prices Start at $299[teaser]The new device offers DVR and streaming media player functions. [/teaser] TiVo has announced the release of its latest product. The TiVo BOLT is a unified entertainment system that lets users record TV programs and watch streaming content. "BOLT was designed to meet the requirements of a new generation of TV viewers," said Ira Bahr, TiVo's Chief Marketing and Retail Sales Officer. "Smaller form factor, 4K compatibility, single-screen integration of cable or over-the-air, plus streaming apps, the ability to take your content anywhere -- and for the first time, the ability to precisely jump commercial breaks at the touch of a button." The device works with existing cable or HD antennas to record four shows at once, and includes support for cable, video on demand, OTA, and OTT content with TiVo DVR and streaming capabilities. In addition, the BOLT offers a new SkipMode that allows viewers to instantly skip through commercials on some recorded material. Likewise, there is also a QuickMode that lets customers play recorded content 30 percent faster without distorted audio, and a Universal Search that searches for content across all platform options. Finally, the entertainment system also incorporates support for 4K Ultra HD playback. The TiVo BOLT will be available in 500GB ($299) and 1TB ($399) models with a first year of annual service included. The device is expected to start shipping on October 4. Source: TiVoPosted Wed Sep 30, 2015 at 03:49 PM PDT by:
