Sony Pictures to launch 4K streaming service

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is due to launch a new 4K Ultra High Definition movie streaming service in the US next week.

ULTRA will launch on Sony 4K Ultra HD TVs, powered by the Android TV operating system, on April 4.

Sony said that the app will allow users to buy Ultra HD movies, with many titles including high dynamic range and digital extras.

Films available on ULTRA will include new releases like Concussion and The Night Before and library titles such as Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon and Ghostbusters – priced at US$30 in 4K with HDR.

“Consumers are rapidly upgrading their living rooms to 4K, and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment’s new ULTRA streaming service will provide a premium viewing experience to satisfy growing demand for 4K movies and television shows,” said Jake Winett, vice-president, consumer services and advanced platforms at Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, which is a Sony Pictures Entertainment division.

“ULTRA takes advantage of the latest industry innovations – 4K resolution, high dynamic range, a wider colour spectrum, digital movie extras, and UltraViolet interoperability – so viewers get the most out of their televisions and their movie collections.”

Sony said the UltraViolet compatibility will allow users to link their ULTRA profiles with their existing UltraViolet libraries, and stream Sony Pictures content previously purchased or redeemed through other UltraViolet-compatible retailers.

Sony Pictures Store customers that already own HD versions of select titles will also be able to upgrade them to 4K on ULTRA for a discounted price, while customers who buy an eligible Sony 4K Ultra HD televisions this summer will get four complimentary movies when they sign up for ULTRA.

Sony first announced plans for the ULTRA service at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier this year.