From the early days of standard definition to today’s ultra-crisp visuals, TV technology keeps raising the bar. Most people are familiar with HD (high definition) and 4K TVs—but there’s a newer step forward that’s gaining steam: Enhanced 4K.
A quick refresher: HD vs. 4K
High Definition, or HD, was the first major leap forward from the grainy, standard-definition broadcasts of the past. With HD came sharper detail and clearer images, typically offering a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.
Then came 4K Ultra HD, which upped the ante with roughly four times the pixel count of HD—3840 x 2160 pixels. The result? Sharper textures, finer details, and a more lifelike image overall. It became the standard for premium TVs and streaming content.
What is Enhanced 4K TV?
Enhanced 4K takes traditional 4K and makes it even better. It’s not just about resolution—it’s about how those pixels perform. Enhanced 4K is also 3,840 by 2160 pixels, but it offers higher bitrates than traditional 4K. These higher bitrates offer even better picture quality while reducing buffering times. The result is an overall smoother, ‘enhanced’ experience.
Why upgrade to Enhanced 4K?
If you spend a lot of time watching movies, live sports, or streaming content, the upgrade is absolutely worth it. Here’s why:
- Visually stunning clarity: Every detail stands out, from subtle textures to vibrant color contrasts.
- Future-ready performance: As more streaming services and broadcasts adopt 4K HDR content, you’ll be ready to enjoy it in full quality.
- Smarter processing: Enhanced 4K TVs often include advanced processors and AI picture optimization, which automatically fine-tune settings based on the content type and room lighting.
- Better sound integration: Many Enhanced 4K models pair improved visuals with Dolby Atmos or similar audio technologies, for a more immersive experience.
Watching 4K and Enhanced 4K content with Xfinity TV
To watch 4K programming with Xfinity TV, you’ll need one of the Xfinity 4K HDR set top boxes: XG1v4, Xi6, or XiOne. (You’ll also need a 4K TV and 4K-capable HDMI cord to watch 4K programming.) Xi6 and XG1v4 set top boxes—as well as the Xfinity Stream app—support Enhanced 4K with Dolby Atmos. Xi6 devices also support Dolby Vision. Say “4K” into your Xfinity voice remote to get to a 4K UHD landing page that displays all available 4K programming. Not sure which set top box you have? Find out here.
Xfinity TV and Xumo Stream Box automatically default to the highest video output resolution possible for your TV, including 4K UHD. To confirm your box is set to 2160 resolution, say “device settings” into your voice remote and from there, select “video display.” When you watch On Demand content that's available in 4K, playback will automatically default to the appropriate 4K color depth based on your TV’s capabilities.
Experience live sports like never before
Enhanced 4K revolutionizes the experience of watching live sports on TV. And now, Xfinity TV customers will get a viewing experience they can’t get anywhere else for some of the sports world’s biggest events, including national NFL games, PGA Tour events, and more.
For more information on 4K UHD, visit the FAQ page here.
