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NeuLion Touts 4K for UFC 205
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NeuLion Touts 4K for UFC 205
For the Nov. 12 UFC 205 event in New York — the first mixed martial arts event there since a ban was lifted in April — video technology company NeuLion is taking on a first-time challenge: deliver the event in 4K, at 60 frames per second, live around the world.
And based on all the tests the company has already done with 4K streaming, NeuLion is ready to pull it off without a hitch, according to company EVP Chris Wagner.
“It’s a live, worldwide — everywhere but China — 4K stream, working with Sony UHD sets,” he told the Media & Entertainment Services Alliance (MESA). “They’re the first to install the software for our player, and we’re streaming at 60 frames per second, averaging about 18 Mbps through a number of content delivery networks, right down to the consumer. It’s the first time anyone has done 4K streaming live worldwide like this.”
NeuLion has inked deals with several 4K TV manufacturers to have its 4K streaming solution included, but Sony is the first to roll It out, with owners of 2015 or 2016 Sony HDR Ultra HD sets able to download the UFC app from Google Play, and stream the $60 PPV event in 4K.
“With Super Bowl-like ticket prices, the anticipation for UFC 205 in New York is fantastic,” said NeuLion president and CEO Roy Reichbach. “We are excited to be a part of such a historic event and give fans outside the arena the ability to watch the action live in stunning 4K quality. This event is another milestone for us as we continue to build momentum delivering the best fan experience and driving 4K content availability worldwide.”
NeuLion is handling pretty much everything for the event, including the digital ticket sales, the streaming and the OTT work. The company aims to build on the event, and do more live, 4K streaming for future events.
