Sony Announces World’s First 4K Media Player

Today at NAB in Las Vegas Sony unveiled the world’s first 4K Media Player and a video distribution service.

With a name only Sony could love, the FMP-X1 will be available this summer bundled with 10 feature films and video shorts in true 4K resolution for $699. In the fall of 2013, users of the same 4K Media Player will be given access to a fee-based video distribution service offering a library of 4K titles from Sony Pictures Entertainment and other notable production houses.

The feature films included with purchase of the 4K Media Player are Bad Teacher, Battle: Los Angeles, The Bridge on the River Kwai, The Karate Kid (2010), Salt, Taxi Driver, That’s My Boy, The Amazing Spider-Man, The Other Guys and Total Recall (2012).

While 4K TV has it’s detractors, more pixels are never a bad thing. When paired with a 4K display, Sony’s new media player will deliver HDTV that is four times clearer then 1080p.

Remember what it was like when you bought your first HDTV, and then visited someone who still had a standard definition television? It was like looking at mud. Once our eyes see high resolution video, it’s very difficult to tolerate lower quality.

A major advantage that 4K brings to video producers is the ability to deliver better 3-D, and eventually 3-D without glasses.

In order to use Sony’s new 4K media player and distribution service, you’ll need a 4K capable display. Sony’s got you covered there too. Today Sony also announced pricing and availability for two of its new 4K TVs.

XBR-55X900A (55-inch) and XBR-65X900A (65-inch) 4K Ultra HD LED TVs will cost $4,999 and $6,999 respectively and are available for order online and at retail beginning April 21, 2013.

“These new models will be arriving in homes just before the summer and are sure to bring the enhanced viewing experience of 4K TV to a whole new audience,” said Mike Lucas , senior vice president, Sony Electronics Home Division. “Our TVs deliver a vibrant and natural picture that is four-times clearer than high definition. As for content, these new sets enhance all of the video people are watching today, and this summer our 4K media player, followed in fall by the video distribution service will demonstrate how Sony continues to lead in bringing the 4K entertainment experience to viewers.”

Starting today, if you live near as Sony Store, you can see 4K TVs on display featuring true 4K and upscaled video.