Technology

Why 4K UHD is being relegated in favour of good old 1080p with HDR

Why 4K UHD is being relegated in favour of good old 1080p with HDR

Why 4K UHD is being relegated in favour of good old 1080p with HDR

Why 4K UHD is being relegated in favour of good old 1080p with HDR

Spicy Mango - Chris Wood

5 min read

|

24 Jun 2024

Is 4K Broadcasting on a Downward Trend?

The Evolution of 4K Broadcasting

Back in 2020, I explored the sustainability of 4K broadcasting, questioning whether it was a trend that would continue to dominate the industry. At the time, 4K, alongside HDR (High Dynamic Range), was touted as the next big thing in television, promising viewers unprecedented clarity and visual impact. However, as we move into 2024, it's becoming increasingly evident that the widespread adoption of 4K may not be as inevitable as once thought.

The concept of 4K broadcasting first gained traction as the natural progression from HD (High Definition) and 1080p content, offering four times the resolution of its predecessor. The early excitement was palpable, with broadcasters and consumers alike eager to experience the "wow factor" of ultra-high-definition content. But the initial enthusiasm has gradually waned, as significant challenges have emerged, casting doubt on the long-term viability of 4K broadcasting.


Recent Industry Developments

Recent developments indicate a shift away from 4K production in some major broadcasting circles. Notably, UEFA, for the first time in nearly a decade, announced that it would no longer produce future competitions in 4K, opting instead for 1080p with HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) HDR. Similarly, there are reports that Amazon in the US may be reconsidering its 4K offerings, further fuelling speculation that 4K broadcasting could be on a downward trajectory.

These decisions reflect broader industry challenges associated with 4K. While the visual appeal of 4K content is undeniable, the costs of production, distribution, and infrastructure upgrades have proven to be formidable barriers to widespread adoption. For many broadcasters and content creators, the return on investment (ROI) for 4K remains elusive, particularly in a landscape where consumers may not fully appreciate the difference between 1080p and 4K.


The Economic Realities of 4K Adoption

Over the past few years, I have spoken with numerous industry professionals who have expressed reservations about adopting 4K, citing the "eye-watering" costs associated with the production and distribution chain. These concerns are not unfounded; producing content in 4K requires significant investments in cameras, storage, and post-production workflows, not to mention the increased bandwidth and distribution costs.

Moreover, the challenge of monetising 4K content has been a persistent issue. While consumers may be willing to pay a premium for premium content, finding a sustainable revenue model that justifies the higher costs of 4K production has proven difficult. This financial strain is compounded by the fact that many consumers are content with the quality offered by 1080p, especially when enhanced with HDR.


The 4K and HDR Relationship

It's important to clarify that 4K and HDR are not intrinsically linked; they can exist independently of each other. In fact, 99% of the data rate overhead associated with 4K content relates to resolution and the bits per pixel needed for that resolution, not the HDR bitstream. However, the majority of the perceived improvements in picture quality come from HDR's enhanced contrast and colour depth, rather than from the increased resolution of 4K.

Without HDR, 4K struggles to deliver the visual impact that consumers expect. The enhanced detail offered by 4K can be impressive, but without the richer colours and deeper contrasts provided by HDR, the overall experience may fall short of the "wow factor" that was initially promised. This disconnect between consumer expectations and the reality of 4K content has further contributed to its faltering momentum.


1080p + HDR: The Practical Alternative

Given the challenges associated with 4K, a growing number of broadcasters and content providers are turning to 1080p combined with HDR as a more practical alternative. This combination offers a sweet spot where the visual benefits of HDR can be delivered with minimal overhead, avoiding the significant costs associated with 4K production.

Carrying an HDR bitstream requires only a few kilobytes of additional data beyond a standard H.265/HEVC encoded 1080p stream. This small amount of metadata allows the decoder to expand the signal for display, enhancing the picture quality without the need for 4K resolution. The result is a high-quality viewing experience that can be achieved at a fraction of the cost.

Adopting 1080p with HDR also presents several strategic advantages:

  1. Cost Efficiency: Transitioning from H.264/AVC to H.265/HEVC provides distribution savings, reducing the data rate while maintaining high picture quality.

  2. Technology Stability: 1080p has been a standard for years, with high adoption rates and mature production workflows, making it a low-risk option for broadcasters.

  3. Simplified Integration: HDR technologies like Dolby Vision and HDR10 can be embedded into existing H.265/HEVC streams, allowing for resolution-agnostic content distribution.

  4. Ease of Adoption: In the OTT and digital publishing space, adopting 1080p with HDR eliminates the need for complex resolution management logic for devices that can't support 4K decoding.


The Future of 4K Broadcasting

While 4K will likely continue to have its place in the broadcast and media landscape, particularly for premium content and high-profile events, the broader industry may shift towards more cost-effective solutions like 1080p with HDR. This approach offers a balance between quality and practicality, meeting consumer expectations while reducing the financial and operational burden on broadcasters.

Looking ahead, the industry may also explore the integration of High Frame Rates (HFR) from the UHD specification into HD + HDR, further enhancing the viewing experience without the need for 4K resolution. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it will be crucial for broadcasters and content creators to remain agile, adapting to changing technologies and consumer preferences while maintaining a focus on sustainability and ROI.

In conclusion, while 4K broadcasting may not be on the verge of extinction, its role as the dominant standard is increasingly being questioned. As the industry grapples with the economic realities and technical challenges of 4K, alternatives like 1080p with HDR are gaining traction, offering a viable path forward for delivering high-quality content in a cost-effective manner.

Is 4K Broadcasting on a Downward Trend?

The Evolution of 4K Broadcasting

Back in 2020, I explored the sustainability of 4K broadcasting, questioning whether it was a trend that would continue to dominate the industry. At the time, 4K, alongside HDR (High Dynamic Range), was touted as the next big thing in television, promising viewers unprecedented clarity and visual impact. However, as we move into 2024, it's becoming increasingly evident that the widespread adoption of 4K may not be as inevitable as once thought.

The concept of 4K broadcasting first gained traction as the natural progression from HD (High Definition) and 1080p content, offering four times the resolution of its predecessor. The early excitement was palpable, with broadcasters and consumers alike eager to experience the "wow factor" of ultra-high-definition content. But the initial enthusiasm has gradually waned, as significant challenges have emerged, casting doubt on the long-term viability of 4K broadcasting.


Recent Industry Developments

Recent developments indicate a shift away from 4K production in some major broadcasting circles. Notably, UEFA, for the first time in nearly a decade, announced that it would no longer produce future competitions in 4K, opting instead for 1080p with HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) HDR. Similarly, there are reports that Amazon in the US may be reconsidering its 4K offerings, further fuelling speculation that 4K broadcasting could be on a downward trajectory.

These decisions reflect broader industry challenges associated with 4K. While the visual appeal of 4K content is undeniable, the costs of production, distribution, and infrastructure upgrades have proven to be formidable barriers to widespread adoption. For many broadcasters and content creators, the return on investment (ROI) for 4K remains elusive, particularly in a landscape where consumers may not fully appreciate the difference between 1080p and 4K.


The Economic Realities of 4K Adoption

Over the past few years, I have spoken with numerous industry professionals who have expressed reservations about adopting 4K, citing the "eye-watering" costs associated with the production and distribution chain. These concerns are not unfounded; producing content in 4K requires significant investments in cameras, storage, and post-production workflows, not to mention the increased bandwidth and distribution costs.

Moreover, the challenge of monetising 4K content has been a persistent issue. While consumers may be willing to pay a premium for premium content, finding a sustainable revenue model that justifies the higher costs of 4K production has proven difficult. This financial strain is compounded by the fact that many consumers are content with the quality offered by 1080p, especially when enhanced with HDR.


The 4K and HDR Relationship

It's important to clarify that 4K and HDR are not intrinsically linked; they can exist independently of each other. In fact, 99% of the data rate overhead associated with 4K content relates to resolution and the bits per pixel needed for that resolution, not the HDR bitstream. However, the majority of the perceived improvements in picture quality come from HDR's enhanced contrast and colour depth, rather than from the increased resolution of 4K.

Without HDR, 4K struggles to deliver the visual impact that consumers expect. The enhanced detail offered by 4K can be impressive, but without the richer colours and deeper contrasts provided by HDR, the overall experience may fall short of the "wow factor" that was initially promised. This disconnect between consumer expectations and the reality of 4K content has further contributed to its faltering momentum.


1080p + HDR: The Practical Alternative

Given the challenges associated with 4K, a growing number of broadcasters and content providers are turning to 1080p combined with HDR as a more practical alternative. This combination offers a sweet spot where the visual benefits of HDR can be delivered with minimal overhead, avoiding the significant costs associated with 4K production.

Carrying an HDR bitstream requires only a few kilobytes of additional data beyond a standard H.265/HEVC encoded 1080p stream. This small amount of metadata allows the decoder to expand the signal for display, enhancing the picture quality without the need for 4K resolution. The result is a high-quality viewing experience that can be achieved at a fraction of the cost.

Adopting 1080p with HDR also presents several strategic advantages:

  1. Cost Efficiency: Transitioning from H.264/AVC to H.265/HEVC provides distribution savings, reducing the data rate while maintaining high picture quality.

  2. Technology Stability: 1080p has been a standard for years, with high adoption rates and mature production workflows, making it a low-risk option for broadcasters.

  3. Simplified Integration: HDR technologies like Dolby Vision and HDR10 can be embedded into existing H.265/HEVC streams, allowing for resolution-agnostic content distribution.

  4. Ease of Adoption: In the OTT and digital publishing space, adopting 1080p with HDR eliminates the need for complex resolution management logic for devices that can't support 4K decoding.


The Future of 4K Broadcasting

While 4K will likely continue to have its place in the broadcast and media landscape, particularly for premium content and high-profile events, the broader industry may shift towards more cost-effective solutions like 1080p with HDR. This approach offers a balance between quality and practicality, meeting consumer expectations while reducing the financial and operational burden on broadcasters.

Looking ahead, the industry may also explore the integration of High Frame Rates (HFR) from the UHD specification into HD + HDR, further enhancing the viewing experience without the need for 4K resolution. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it will be crucial for broadcasters and content creators to remain agile, adapting to changing technologies and consumer preferences while maintaining a focus on sustainability and ROI.

In conclusion, while 4K broadcasting may not be on the verge of extinction, its role as the dominant standard is increasingly being questioned. As the industry grapples with the economic realities and technical challenges of 4K, alternatives like 1080p with HDR are gaining traction, offering a viable path forward for delivering high-quality content in a cost-effective manner.

Is 4K Broadcasting on a Downward Trend?

The Evolution of 4K Broadcasting

Back in 2020, I explored the sustainability of 4K broadcasting, questioning whether it was a trend that would continue to dominate the industry. At the time, 4K, alongside HDR (High Dynamic Range), was touted as the next big thing in television, promising viewers unprecedented clarity and visual impact. However, as we move into 2024, it's becoming increasingly evident that the widespread adoption of 4K may not be as inevitable as once thought.

The concept of 4K broadcasting first gained traction as the natural progression from HD (High Definition) and 1080p content, offering four times the resolution of its predecessor. The early excitement was palpable, with broadcasters and consumers alike eager to experience the "wow factor" of ultra-high-definition content. But the initial enthusiasm has gradually waned, as significant challenges have emerged, casting doubt on the long-term viability of 4K broadcasting.


Recent Industry Developments

Recent developments indicate a shift away from 4K production in some major broadcasting circles. Notably, UEFA, for the first time in nearly a decade, announced that it would no longer produce future competitions in 4K, opting instead for 1080p with HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) HDR. Similarly, there are reports that Amazon in the US may be reconsidering its 4K offerings, further fuelling speculation that 4K broadcasting could be on a downward trajectory.

These decisions reflect broader industry challenges associated with 4K. While the visual appeal of 4K content is undeniable, the costs of production, distribution, and infrastructure upgrades have proven to be formidable barriers to widespread adoption. For many broadcasters and content creators, the return on investment (ROI) for 4K remains elusive, particularly in a landscape where consumers may not fully appreciate the difference between 1080p and 4K.


The Economic Realities of 4K Adoption

Over the past few years, I have spoken with numerous industry professionals who have expressed reservations about adopting 4K, citing the "eye-watering" costs associated with the production and distribution chain. These concerns are not unfounded; producing content in 4K requires significant investments in cameras, storage, and post-production workflows, not to mention the increased bandwidth and distribution costs.

Moreover, the challenge of monetising 4K content has been a persistent issue. While consumers may be willing to pay a premium for premium content, finding a sustainable revenue model that justifies the higher costs of 4K production has proven difficult. This financial strain is compounded by the fact that many consumers are content with the quality offered by 1080p, especially when enhanced with HDR.


The 4K and HDR Relationship

It's important to clarify that 4K and HDR are not intrinsically linked; they can exist independently of each other. In fact, 99% of the data rate overhead associated with 4K content relates to resolution and the bits per pixel needed for that resolution, not the HDR bitstream. However, the majority of the perceived improvements in picture quality come from HDR's enhanced contrast and colour depth, rather than from the increased resolution of 4K.

Without HDR, 4K struggles to deliver the visual impact that consumers expect. The enhanced detail offered by 4K can be impressive, but without the richer colours and deeper contrasts provided by HDR, the overall experience may fall short of the "wow factor" that was initially promised. This disconnect between consumer expectations and the reality of 4K content has further contributed to its faltering momentum.


1080p + HDR: The Practical Alternative

Given the challenges associated with 4K, a growing number of broadcasters and content providers are turning to 1080p combined with HDR as a more practical alternative. This combination offers a sweet spot where the visual benefits of HDR can be delivered with minimal overhead, avoiding the significant costs associated with 4K production.

Carrying an HDR bitstream requires only a few kilobytes of additional data beyond a standard H.265/HEVC encoded 1080p stream. This small amount of metadata allows the decoder to expand the signal for display, enhancing the picture quality without the need for 4K resolution. The result is a high-quality viewing experience that can be achieved at a fraction of the cost.

Adopting 1080p with HDR also presents several strategic advantages:

  1. Cost Efficiency: Transitioning from H.264/AVC to H.265/HEVC provides distribution savings, reducing the data rate while maintaining high picture quality.

  2. Technology Stability: 1080p has been a standard for years, with high adoption rates and mature production workflows, making it a low-risk option for broadcasters.

  3. Simplified Integration: HDR technologies like Dolby Vision and HDR10 can be embedded into existing H.265/HEVC streams, allowing for resolution-agnostic content distribution.

  4. Ease of Adoption: In the OTT and digital publishing space, adopting 1080p with HDR eliminates the need for complex resolution management logic for devices that can't support 4K decoding.


The Future of 4K Broadcasting

While 4K will likely continue to have its place in the broadcast and media landscape, particularly for premium content and high-profile events, the broader industry may shift towards more cost-effective solutions like 1080p with HDR. This approach offers a balance between quality and practicality, meeting consumer expectations while reducing the financial and operational burden on broadcasters.

Looking ahead, the industry may also explore the integration of High Frame Rates (HFR) from the UHD specification into HD + HDR, further enhancing the viewing experience without the need for 4K resolution. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it will be crucial for broadcasters and content creators to remain agile, adapting to changing technologies and consumer preferences while maintaining a focus on sustainability and ROI.

In conclusion, while 4K broadcasting may not be on the verge of extinction, its role as the dominant standard is increasingly being questioned. As the industry grapples with the economic realities and technical challenges of 4K, alternatives like 1080p with HDR are gaining traction, offering a viable path forward for delivering high-quality content in a cost-effective manner.

Is 4K Broadcasting on a Downward Trend?

The Evolution of 4K Broadcasting

Back in 2020, I explored the sustainability of 4K broadcasting, questioning whether it was a trend that would continue to dominate the industry. At the time, 4K, alongside HDR (High Dynamic Range), was touted as the next big thing in television, promising viewers unprecedented clarity and visual impact. However, as we move into 2024, it's becoming increasingly evident that the widespread adoption of 4K may not be as inevitable as once thought.

The concept of 4K broadcasting first gained traction as the natural progression from HD (High Definition) and 1080p content, offering four times the resolution of its predecessor. The early excitement was palpable, with broadcasters and consumers alike eager to experience the "wow factor" of ultra-high-definition content. But the initial enthusiasm has gradually waned, as significant challenges have emerged, casting doubt on the long-term viability of 4K broadcasting.


Recent Industry Developments

Recent developments indicate a shift away from 4K production in some major broadcasting circles. Notably, UEFA, for the first time in nearly a decade, announced that it would no longer produce future competitions in 4K, opting instead for 1080p with HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) HDR. Similarly, there are reports that Amazon in the US may be reconsidering its 4K offerings, further fuelling speculation that 4K broadcasting could be on a downward trajectory.

These decisions reflect broader industry challenges associated with 4K. While the visual appeal of 4K content is undeniable, the costs of production, distribution, and infrastructure upgrades have proven to be formidable barriers to widespread adoption. For many broadcasters and content creators, the return on investment (ROI) for 4K remains elusive, particularly in a landscape where consumers may not fully appreciate the difference between 1080p and 4K.


The Economic Realities of 4K Adoption

Over the past few years, I have spoken with numerous industry professionals who have expressed reservations about adopting 4K, citing the "eye-watering" costs associated with the production and distribution chain. These concerns are not unfounded; producing content in 4K requires significant investments in cameras, storage, and post-production workflows, not to mention the increased bandwidth and distribution costs.

Moreover, the challenge of monetising 4K content has been a persistent issue. While consumers may be willing to pay a premium for premium content, finding a sustainable revenue model that justifies the higher costs of 4K production has proven difficult. This financial strain is compounded by the fact that many consumers are content with the quality offered by 1080p, especially when enhanced with HDR.


The 4K and HDR Relationship

It's important to clarify that 4K and HDR are not intrinsically linked; they can exist independently of each other. In fact, 99% of the data rate overhead associated with 4K content relates to resolution and the bits per pixel needed for that resolution, not the HDR bitstream. However, the majority of the perceived improvements in picture quality come from HDR's enhanced contrast and colour depth, rather than from the increased resolution of 4K.

Without HDR, 4K struggles to deliver the visual impact that consumers expect. The enhanced detail offered by 4K can be impressive, but without the richer colours and deeper contrasts provided by HDR, the overall experience may fall short of the "wow factor" that was initially promised. This disconnect between consumer expectations and the reality of 4K content has further contributed to its faltering momentum.


1080p + HDR: The Practical Alternative

Given the challenges associated with 4K, a growing number of broadcasters and content providers are turning to 1080p combined with HDR as a more practical alternative. This combination offers a sweet spot where the visual benefits of HDR can be delivered with minimal overhead, avoiding the significant costs associated with 4K production.

Carrying an HDR bitstream requires only a few kilobytes of additional data beyond a standard H.265/HEVC encoded 1080p stream. This small amount of metadata allows the decoder to expand the signal for display, enhancing the picture quality without the need for 4K resolution. The result is a high-quality viewing experience that can be achieved at a fraction of the cost.

Adopting 1080p with HDR also presents several strategic advantages:

  1. Cost Efficiency: Transitioning from H.264/AVC to H.265/HEVC provides distribution savings, reducing the data rate while maintaining high picture quality.

  2. Technology Stability: 1080p has been a standard for years, with high adoption rates and mature production workflows, making it a low-risk option for broadcasters.

  3. Simplified Integration: HDR technologies like Dolby Vision and HDR10 can be embedded into existing H.265/HEVC streams, allowing for resolution-agnostic content distribution.

  4. Ease of Adoption: In the OTT and digital publishing space, adopting 1080p with HDR eliminates the need for complex resolution management logic for devices that can't support 4K decoding.


The Future of 4K Broadcasting

While 4K will likely continue to have its place in the broadcast and media landscape, particularly for premium content and high-profile events, the broader industry may shift towards more cost-effective solutions like 1080p with HDR. This approach offers a balance between quality and practicality, meeting consumer expectations while reducing the financial and operational burden on broadcasters.

Looking ahead, the industry may also explore the integration of High Frame Rates (HFR) from the UHD specification into HD + HDR, further enhancing the viewing experience without the need for 4K resolution. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it will be crucial for broadcasters and content creators to remain agile, adapting to changing technologies and consumer preferences while maintaining a focus on sustainability and ROI.

In conclusion, while 4K broadcasting may not be on the verge of extinction, its role as the dominant standard is increasingly being questioned. As the industry grapples with the economic realities and technical challenges of 4K, alternatives like 1080p with HDR are gaining traction, offering a viable path forward for delivering high-quality content in a cost-effective manner.

Is 4K Broadcasting on a Downward Trend?

The Evolution of 4K Broadcasting

Back in 2020, I explored the sustainability of 4K broadcasting, questioning whether it was a trend that would continue to dominate the industry. At the time, 4K, alongside HDR (High Dynamic Range), was touted as the next big thing in television, promising viewers unprecedented clarity and visual impact. However, as we move into 2024, it's becoming increasingly evident that the widespread adoption of 4K may not be as inevitable as once thought.

The concept of 4K broadcasting first gained traction as the natural progression from HD (High Definition) and 1080p content, offering four times the resolution of its predecessor. The early excitement was palpable, with broadcasters and consumers alike eager to experience the "wow factor" of ultra-high-definition content. But the initial enthusiasm has gradually waned, as significant challenges have emerged, casting doubt on the long-term viability of 4K broadcasting.


Recent Industry Developments

Recent developments indicate a shift away from 4K production in some major broadcasting circles. Notably, UEFA, for the first time in nearly a decade, announced that it would no longer produce future competitions in 4K, opting instead for 1080p with HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) HDR. Similarly, there are reports that Amazon in the US may be reconsidering its 4K offerings, further fuelling speculation that 4K broadcasting could be on a downward trajectory.

These decisions reflect broader industry challenges associated with 4K. While the visual appeal of 4K content is undeniable, the costs of production, distribution, and infrastructure upgrades have proven to be formidable barriers to widespread adoption. For many broadcasters and content creators, the return on investment (ROI) for 4K remains elusive, particularly in a landscape where consumers may not fully appreciate the difference between 1080p and 4K.


The Economic Realities of 4K Adoption

Over the past few years, I have spoken with numerous industry professionals who have expressed reservations about adopting 4K, citing the "eye-watering" costs associated with the production and distribution chain. These concerns are not unfounded; producing content in 4K requires significant investments in cameras, storage, and post-production workflows, not to mention the increased bandwidth and distribution costs.

Moreover, the challenge of monetising 4K content has been a persistent issue. While consumers may be willing to pay a premium for premium content, finding a sustainable revenue model that justifies the higher costs of 4K production has proven difficult. This financial strain is compounded by the fact that many consumers are content with the quality offered by 1080p, especially when enhanced with HDR.


The 4K and HDR Relationship

It's important to clarify that 4K and HDR are not intrinsically linked; they can exist independently of each other. In fact, 99% of the data rate overhead associated with 4K content relates to resolution and the bits per pixel needed for that resolution, not the HDR bitstream. However, the majority of the perceived improvements in picture quality come from HDR's enhanced contrast and colour depth, rather than from the increased resolution of 4K.

Without HDR, 4K struggles to deliver the visual impact that consumers expect. The enhanced detail offered by 4K can be impressive, but without the richer colours and deeper contrasts provided by HDR, the overall experience may fall short of the "wow factor" that was initially promised. This disconnect between consumer expectations and the reality of 4K content has further contributed to its faltering momentum.


1080p + HDR: The Practical Alternative

Given the challenges associated with 4K, a growing number of broadcasters and content providers are turning to 1080p combined with HDR as a more practical alternative. This combination offers a sweet spot where the visual benefits of HDR can be delivered with minimal overhead, avoiding the significant costs associated with 4K production.

Carrying an HDR bitstream requires only a few kilobytes of additional data beyond a standard H.265/HEVC encoded 1080p stream. This small amount of metadata allows the decoder to expand the signal for display, enhancing the picture quality without the need for 4K resolution. The result is a high-quality viewing experience that can be achieved at a fraction of the cost.

Adopting 1080p with HDR also presents several strategic advantages:

  1. Cost Efficiency: Transitioning from H.264/AVC to H.265/HEVC provides distribution savings, reducing the data rate while maintaining high picture quality.

  2. Technology Stability: 1080p has been a standard for years, with high adoption rates and mature production workflows, making it a low-risk option for broadcasters.

  3. Simplified Integration: HDR technologies like Dolby Vision and HDR10 can be embedded into existing H.265/HEVC streams, allowing for resolution-agnostic content distribution.

  4. Ease of Adoption: In the OTT and digital publishing space, adopting 1080p with HDR eliminates the need for complex resolution management logic for devices that can't support 4K decoding.


The Future of 4K Broadcasting

While 4K will likely continue to have its place in the broadcast and media landscape, particularly for premium content and high-profile events, the broader industry may shift towards more cost-effective solutions like 1080p with HDR. This approach offers a balance between quality and practicality, meeting consumer expectations while reducing the financial and operational burden on broadcasters.

Looking ahead, the industry may also explore the integration of High Frame Rates (HFR) from the UHD specification into HD + HDR, further enhancing the viewing experience without the need for 4K resolution. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it will be crucial for broadcasters and content creators to remain agile, adapting to changing technologies and consumer preferences while maintaining a focus on sustainability and ROI.

In conclusion, while 4K broadcasting may not be on the verge of extinction, its role as the dominant standard is increasingly being questioned. As the industry grapples with the economic realities and technical challenges of 4K, alternatives like 1080p with HDR are gaining traction, offering a viable path forward for delivering high-quality content in a cost-effective manner.

To find out more about anything you've read here, or to learn how Spicy Mango could help, drop us a note at hello@spicymango.co.uk, give us a call, or send us a message using our contact form and we'll be in touch.

More insights you may enjoy

More insights you may enjoy

More insights you may enjoy

More insights you may enjoy

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Contact us - we don't bite

Drop us an email at hello@spicymango.co.uk or call us on +44 (0)844 848 0441 or fill out the contact form below for a friendly chat.

We don’t share your personal details with anyone

Get in touch

Contact us - we don't bite

Drop us an email at hello@spicymango.co.uk or call us on +44 (0)844 848 0441 or fill out the contact form below for a friendly chat.

We don’t share your personal details with anyone

Get in touch

Contact us - we don't bite

Drop us an email at hello@spicymango.co.uk or call us on +44 (0)844 848 0441 or fill out the contact form below for a friendly chat.

We don’t share your personal details with anyone