After adding support for 4K HDR video earlier this month, YouTube is today launching support for 4K live streaming in both standard and 360-degree videos. The latter should be especially beneficial for VR, with more providers, like HBO, working on VR apps for Daydream.
YouTube first launched 4K video support in 2010 with more and more devices, like the Chromecast Ultra, now finally starting to hit the market for regular consumers.
Streaming in 4K will result in more detailed and crisper images that are less blurry when there’s fast movement on-screen. Additionally, YouTube will support 4K live streaming at up to 60 frames per second. For more details, check out YouTube’s support page.
YouTube has been a particularly important source for providing content for Cardboard and now Daydream VR. 360-degree videos are great in VR, but are often times still very blurry even at the highest 1080p resolution. Hopefully, 4K should drastically improve the experience and realism.
Launched earlier this month, Daydream is seeing more partners release content, with the Moto Z being the first device following the Pixel to support the platform. Following the initial bevy of apps at launch, HBO appears (via Android Police) to be the next studio to make a VR experience.
HBO GO VR has an interface for watching regular video while wearing a headset and has an optimized 3D interface. The app is still currently in beta.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.