DIRECTV (DTV), the largest satellite TV service provider in the U.S., has become the first multi-channel video provider to offer 4K Ultra HD programming directly on subscribers’ TV sets.
The company has launched the service in partnership with Samsung, a leading brand in UHD TVs. DIRECTV customers will now be able to access Ultra HD content using a DIRECTV Genie HD DVR and a supporting 2014 Samsung Electronics Ultra HD.
DIRECTV will offer an array of fresh releases, popular movies and nature documentaries in 4K. This technology promises the finest picture quality with life-like clarity and superior horizontal resolution on the order of 4,000 pixels. The application of horizontal resolution technology is a qualitative shift from the older HD-TV technology which uses vertical resolution. Moreover, the new technology will significantly upgrade both video and sound quality. Comcast Corp. (CMCSA), the largest cable TV operator in the U.S., is also currently enagegd in the research and development of the 4K resolution.
DIRECTV has been more of a trendsetter in the pay-TV industry. With the latest 4K TV offering, it now seeks to offer the ultimate TV experience. The company has announced that 19 films from Paramount Pictures, a division of Viacom Inc. (VIAB) and K2 Communications will be offered initially in the new format.
Notably, DIRECTV has entered into a definitive agreement with AT&T Inc. (T) to sell its business to the latter for $48.5 billion. The proposed deal has been approved by the boards of both the companies and by the shareholders. The transaction is expected to be a combination of cash and stock bid of $95.00 per share. The deal now awaits the approvals of regulators and is expected to be closed in early 2015.
Currently, DIRECTV carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
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