Sony announced that it is implementing HDR (High Dynamic Range) support into a wider range of 4K Ultra HD TVs in its portfolio. Moreover, together with the X940C and X930C models, which were previously announced to feature the said HDR support, the Japanese electronics manufacturer plans to extend HDR compatibility X910C, X900C and X850C 4K TV models.
HDR support implementation for the mentioned models will come as a network update that will soon be available. Once patched, the televisions will be capable of streaming vivid HDR content through Amazon, which, according to Sony, is the first online video service that offers content in "premium visual experience".
"Sony is pleased to be expanding HDR compatibility for our 4K Ultra HD televisions. Sony has always been a leader in HDR, from our HDR-enabled professional cameras, to Sony Pictures produced and edited HDR content, to our expanded line of HDR compatible TVs, only Sony can bring you the full HDR viewing experience from the lens to the living room," says the President of Sony Electronics Mike Fasulo.
HDR works by reproducing a wider dynamic range of brightness levels, which gives the display better contrast. With greater contrast, the subtler details in the images pop up on the screen. The resulting image will have more defined shadows, the brightest of whites and more vivid colors.
"With HDR compatible televisions Sony customers will enjoy brighter colors, enhanced details and distinct highlights, resulting in more depth and detail than ever before," Sony summarizes benefits of the HDR implementation.
Along with the upcoming update, Sony is also offering $100 dollars worth of HDR titles on Amazon Video to those who buy any of the compatible Sony 4K Ultra HD TV models. This includes movies from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment's libraries such as Fury, Men in Black 3, The Amazing Spider Man 2 and After Earth. The promotion starts this fall and will go on for a limited period of time.
Moreover, through the HDR compatible TVs, those that have an Amazon Prime membership will be given free access to Transparent, Red Oaks and Mozart in the Jungle - shows produced by Amazon Studios.
Some of the mentioned TV models have gone down in price. The 65-inch X900c is listed at $3,298 dollars on Amazon while the 55-inch version sells for $2,498 dollars. The 75-inch X910, which is highly-rated by Amazon shoppers, has barely gone down in price and is listed at $5,498 dollars. The later models, X930C, 65-inch display, and X940C, 75-inch display, are offered at $3,798 dollars and $6,998 dollars, respectively.
Sony promises that its current 4K Android-TV lineup, which is equipped with the 4K processor X1, offers better picture quality with improved colors, contrast and clarity that HDR helps achieve. The manufacturer, however, reminds the customers that for an optimal 4K Ultra HD streaming, an Internet connection with at least 20 Mbps speed is needed.
Photo: John Karakatsanis | Flickr
