IFA: manufacturers turn up the resolution with UHD technology

The pixel race is reaching new extremes at IFA in Berlin, where electronics companies are pulling out all the stops to bring even higher definition to their screens. Like 3D and ‘smart' TVs in recent years, Ultra High-Definition (UHD) is the latest trend among television manufacturers.

The pixel race is reaching new extremes at IFA in Berlin, where electronics companies are pulling out all the stops to bring even higher definition to their screens. Like 3D and ‘smart' TVs in recent years, Ultra High-Definition (UHD) is the latest trend among television manufacturers.

Philips, Panasonic, as well as Chinese brands Haier and TCL are showing off new UHD TVs at this year's IFA. Samsung made headlines by unveiling a new range of UHD TVs with curved screens of 55 to 65 inches. Meanwhile, outside of the TV sector, Panasonic introduced what it claims to be the world's first 4K resolution tablet, the 20-inch Toughpad 4K. Pricing details have yet to be announced.

The first smartphone with 4K film capture

When it comes to creating UHD content, Acer wants to make sure that mobile terminals are as capable as dedicated camcorders. At IFA, the brand presented its Liquid S2, the first smartphone with a 4K video camera, slated for commercial launch this fall. Ironically, content filmed with the Liquid S2 can only be enjoyed on a 4K compatible screen, which the smartphone does not have. In terms of standalone video cameras, Sony unveiled its Handycam FDR-AX1, which can also film in 4K.

Tech fans can expect to see more announcements like this through the end of the year, as well as at CES in Las Vegas next January.

IFA runs through September 11 in Berlin. Website: ifa-berlin.com