Heads up, pixel junkies: the world's first regularly scheduled 8K TV broadcasts went live this week, but don't get too excited. You'll need a plane ticket to Japan to get in on the "super hi-vision" fun.
As PCWorld reports, Japanese public broadcaster NHK this week launched a satellite channel broadcasting 8K content, along with some lowly 4K footage. And get ready to be super jealous: On the schedule is an 8K live feed of the opening and closing ceremonies from the Rio Olympics.
NHK is running these broadcasts as a test to prepare for a more official 8K launch in 2018, and to ensure it has all the kinks ironed out in time for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. At this point, those in Japan still won't be able to catch these 8K broadcasts from the comfort of home; NHK is only airing them at a few public viewing locations around Tokyo and Osaka City.
So, how clear is 8K, exactly? We're talking a 4320p-resolution video, which is four times that of 4K and 16 times the resolution you'll get with full high-definition (FHD). NHK's super hi-vision format also boasts 22.2-channel surround sound.
Japanese manufacturer Sharp last year launched an 85-inch 8K display, but the 7,680-by-4,320-pixel screen is not cheap; it will set you back $133,000. At this point, it's also more of a monitor than a TV, since 8K content is so hard to come by. YouTube also last year added support for 8K content.