BDA Finalizes Ultra HD Blu-ray Spec, Format Supports HDR & Expanded Colors

[gonzalo MX]

Posted Tue May 12, 2015 at 06:00 AM PDT by Steven Cohen

BDA Finalizes Ultra HD Blu-ray Spec, Format Supports HDR & Expanded Colors

The next-generation Blu-ray specification has been completed.

The BDA has officially announced the finalization of the Ultra HD Blu-ray spec and logo. The upcoming disc format will deliver Ultra HD content to Ultra HD TVs.

"For years, Blu-ray Disc has set the standard for high definition picture and audio quality in the home. Ultra HD Blu-ray will do the same for UHD home entertainment," said Victor Matsuda, chair, BDA Promotions Committee. "The technical capabilities of Blu-ray Disc, in particular its significant storage capacity and high data transfer rates, will enable the delivery of an unparalleled, consistent and repeatable UHD experience."

The Ultra HD Blu-ray spec supports video at up to 3840x2160 resolution, expanded color gamuts, high dynamic range, high frame rate content, and object-based audio tech like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Likewise, the format includes an optional digital bridge feature that "enhances the value of content ownership by embracing the notion that a content purchase can enable the consumer to view their content across the range of in-home and mobile devices." Finally, the spec also requires that Ultra HD Blu-ray players offer backwards compatibility with current Blu-rays. Ultra HD Blu-ray discs will hold up to 66GB on dual layer discs and 100GB on triple layer discs.

Currently, the only way to watch Ultra HD content on a 4K TV is through pre-loaded hard drives or streaming and download services. With its superior storage capacity and compression techniques, Ultra HD Blu-ray promises to deliver higher quality Ultra HD content. Licensing for Ultra HD Blu-ray is scheduled to commence this summer. An exact release window for the first Ultra HD Blu-ray players and discs has not been announced, but previous rumors have indicated a possible holiday 2015 or early 2016 debut.

Source: BDA via Business Wire

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/U...lors/22904