Sony Pictures expands 4K movie service

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (SPHE) is due to expand the availability of its 4K movie streaming service, Ultra, and will update the store to include rental options.

From the first quarter of 2017, SPHE said that Ultra will be available on PCs for the first time, debuting on computers powered by 7th Generation Intel Core processors.

The 4K service, which launched in early 2016 on Sony 4K Televisions, will also add new features like 48-hour rentals and free 10 minute previews, letting customers sample 4K titles before buying.

New release rental titles will be priced at US$7.99 and be accessible for a 48-hour rental period. New movies in 4K and high dynamic range currently cost US$29.99 to own, while older movies are available to buy for US$25.99.

“By enhancing our Ultra streaming service with the addition of rental and free preview options, and teaming with Intel to provide users greater access to their collections, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is making Ultra an even more flexible, user-friendly destination for consumers who demand a premium 4K viewing experience,” said Richard Berger, SPHE’s senior vice-president, worldwide digital strategy and advanced platforms.

Intel said that its 7th Gen Intel Core processor will bring 4K content to mainstream PC users, offering “richer experiences and incredible performance and responsiveness, with long battery life and true 4K entertainment”.