High-efficiency video coding: a future for ultra-high definition television?

He standard for high efficiency digital coding was agreed by the International Telecommunication Union in January 2013. This article reviews the technology issues that are associated with delivery of television services using spectrum. It then examines the consumer implications of the new standard – the likely requirement for replacement equipment. The impacts on broadcasters and content providers are also considered in an environment where advertising share is diminishing and where consumers increasingly expect subscription video on demand (SVoD) models. The article suggests that newer coding techniques are likely to result in ultra-high-definition television (UHDTV) services being available to consumers. However, there is a strong likelihood that these services will not be delivered using terrestrial or satellite broadcasting services and instead will be delivered over broadband.