Virtual Reality in Ultra HD: Better than the Real Thing?

Audiences today demand richer video experiences than ever before, delivered across multiple screens and platforms. This trend towards immersive video entertainment is further strengthened by the growing momentum behind Ultra HD broadcasting.

By 2025, an estimated 785 new Ultra HD channels will be rolled out to audiences worldwide[1].

As consumer expectations evolve at an incredible pace, broadcasters and pay-TV operators may soon be bracing for the arrival of virtual reality (VR) video content that takes immersive viewing to a whole new level.

Consider the sheer potential that VR technology brings when matched with crisp Ultra HD picture quality. That would be the closest consumers will ever get to a complete 360-degree viewing experience that allows them to look anywhere they choose, and in greater detail and picture resolution.

Consumers in Asia are no strangers to the latest in 360-degree video experiences, highlighted by the growing popularity of VR gaming.

The Asia Pacific region ranks as the world's fastest growing market for VR hardware and software, with a projected growth rate of 108.1% from 2015-2020[2].

VR experiences engage audiences in ways never imagined, especially through sports, rock concerts, or other live performances. As VR continues to take off with consumers, pay-TV operators in Asia now have the impetus to add both VR content and UHD production values to enrich their programming mix.

At the recent IBC 2016, SES showcased the transmission of a 10K x 2K panoramic video signal via satellite to multiple devices simultaneously. The signal received was transmitted to an Ultra HD display, as well as a set of VR head-mounted devices.

The VR content was filmed with Fraunhofer HHI's OmniCam-360 camera. For the first time, viewers get to experience being part of a virtual event.

SES is leading the way in enhancing the consumer viewing experience. We offer both the connectivity needed to deliver VR content in the highest quality, as well as the experience to help you transmit the content efficiently to millions of TV households across Asia.  

Thomas Wrede, Vice President Reception Systems at SES, explained: "Satellites are the perfect distribution path for these new kinds of video experiences, as they can manage huge volumes of data being offloaded from terrestrial networks.”

“Furthermore, technology standards like SAT>IP not only allow the viewers at home to pick and choose a device—the TV screen, tablet, or virtual reality equipment—but also they can now choose their favourite viewing position,” Wrede added.

Learn more about how we can help you take consumer experiences to the next level.