DirecTV tees up 4K Masters Golf
March 10, 2016
By Colin Mann
AT&T has confirmed that its DirecTV DTH satellite subsidiary will deliver the first-ever live 4K broadcast in the US with April’s Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club, marking the inaugural live event on the new DirecTV 4K Channel.
“Golf’s premier event deserves the best viewing experience that 4K UHD on DirecTV provides,” said Dan York, chief content officer, AT&T Entertainment Group. “Once you see it in 4K on DirecTV, it’s going to be tough to see it any other way – unless you’re there in person.”
In announcing the inaugural event, AT&T revealed the new DirecTV 4K channel would launch as part of the DirecTV ULTIMATE and PREMIER Packages, including 4K UHD content from AUDIENCE Network, documentaries and more.
DirecTV was the first multichannel video provider to deliver 4K UHD Video on Demand programming in November 2014.
DirecTV SVP, Video & Space Communications, Phil Goswitz confirmed late November 2015 that the broadcaster’s goal was to have as much linear live UHD content, especially sports content, as soon as possible, suggesting this would be early in 2016.
Customers who want the premium 4K UHD live experience via the DirecTV 4K Channel will need a DirecTV ULTIMATE or PREMIER Package subscription with an authorised 4K customer account, the latest Genie HD DVR (HR54) or either a DIRECTV 4K Ready TV or a compatible 4K TV connected to the latest 4K Genie Mini.