Move Over HD Here Comes 'Ultra HD'

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) has voted to endorse a new industry naming scheme recommending the term “Ultra High-Definition or Ultra HD” as related to performance and attributes of so-called “4K” high-definition display technology for the home.

The name and related minimum performance characteristics are designed to help consumers and retailers understand the attributes of this next generation of superior television and display technology beginning to roll out this fall. The vote came during the Board’s meeting at CEA’s annual CEO Summit and Board Retreat held here through Friday.

“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,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CEA. “This new terminology and the recommended attributes will help consumers navigate the marketplace to find the TV that best meets their needs.”

The group also defined the core characteristics of Ultra High-Definition TVs, monitors and projectors for the home. Minimum performance attributes include display resolution of at least eight million active pixels, with at least 3,840 horizontally and at least 2,160 vertically. Displays will have an aspect ratio with width to height of at least 16 X 9. To use the Ultra HD label, display products will require at least one digital input capable of carrying and presenting native 4K format video from this input at full 3,840 X 2,160 resolution without relying solely on up-converting.

Consumers can expect a break out year in 2013 for devices with the new standard with Ultra HD technology expected to be prominently displayed at the upcoming 2013 International CES which will be held January 8-11, 2013, in Las Vegas.