Amazon 4K streams start, The number of big-name 4K video services just doubled, from one to two.
Amazon announced the inception of its 4K streaming service today, joining Netflix in allowing owners of many 2014 4K TVs to watch a selection of 4K/Ultra High Definition movies and TV shows.
Prime members as usual get the best selection, gaining access to numerous 4K shows without having to pay an extra dime. Amazon Original Series like "Alpha House," "Transparent" and children's series "Gortimer Gibbon's Life on Normal Street," as well as the BBC series "Orphan Black" are said to be available now.
A few Sony Pictures films are also available in 4K streaming free to Prime members, including "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," "Funny Girl," "Hitch" and "Philadelphia."
Non-Prime members '4K choices are more limited. They get the concert "Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga: Cheek to Cheek LIVE!" in Ultra HD for free (sponsored by LG), as well as the ability to purchase a selection of Sony Pictures movies in 4K starting at $19.99. Titles available at launch include "American Hustle," "Captain Phillips," "The Monuments Men," "This Is the End" and more.
To watch Amazon's 4K stream, you'll need a compatible 4K TV from 2014; Samsung, LG, Sony and Vizio have all announced that their sets will handle the updated app. As with Netflix, Amazon's 4K stream utilizes HEVC/H.265, so most 4K TVs from 2013 are not compatible. Sony's FMP-X10 player will get Amazon 4K streaming in spring 2015.
I tried to check out the service this afternoon, but for whatever reason I couldn't access the 4K versions of the listed shows and movies (despite the screenshot above). The only purchase options were for the standard and HD versions, and when I started streaming the Prime shows, the highest resolution listed by the interface was "HD 1080p."
I tested multiple shows and movies on the Amazon app using a Samsung UN60HU8550, Sony XBR-X950B and an LG 65UB9500, each updated to the latest software versions, but no dice. I also tried forcing the software updates on a couple of Vizio P series sets, but again didn't have any luck.
I assume the 4K content will appear soon, but it doesn't seem to be viewable just yet. I asked Amazon's rep about the issue and will update this piece when I hear back.
