While Youtube had already added support for 4K videos in 2010, the Google-owned video repository is adding the same capabilities to its live streaming service. Starting today, creators and partners can now stream their videos in 4K, with the first event taking advantage of that being The Game Awards for this year. You can tune in to the same at 6 PM ET tomorrow, to see for yourself, how 4k streaming feels.
The latest big upgrade will let creators and partners stream incredibly high-resolution video, and let you enjoy the clearest picture possible when watching a live stream. You of course need a 4K enabled device for the same — goes without saying.
What makes this even more exciting, is the fact, that 4K live streaming support is coming to both usual and 360 degree videos. Imagine seeing those awesome 360 degree shoots in pure 4K format. Exhilarating stuff ! While this may not be viewable by most of us — considering there aren’t many devices supporting 4K viewing, it still makes coming times in the live streaming domain, even more exciting.
Just so you know how different a 4K is from a usual High Definition video you usually stream on Youtube, the 4K one shows 8 MILLION (!!!!!!!!) pixels total, with an image that has four times more image definition than even 1080p video. What does this mean in real world terms? Live streams look better, show a more detailed, crisper picture, and aren’t as blurry when there’s fast action on screen. Basically, 4K makes everything better to look at. And because Youtube supports 4K at up to 60 frames per second — by far the most advanced — creators can make content that looks silky smooth, and more realistic than ever before.
While this is an exciting new upgrade for both creators and viewers alike, this also will come handy for Youtube in gaining edge over the likes of Facebook and Twitter (via Persicope), both of whom are increasingly gaining footprints in this highly competitive segment. And then, for gaming stuff, there’s Twitch as well.
It has been pretty interesting to see how all these larger players involved, have been rolling out multiple upgrades and features to make sure they stay ahead in this exciting, cut-throat competitive video domain. Facebook for example, just recently launched its own, dedicated game streaming section, “Gameroom”. Youtube on the other hand, rolled out support for the next-gen HDR format HDR earlier this month. The company also rolled out a standalone VR app for a more immersive viewing experience.
