Netflix Ultra HD Streaming Arrives on Panasonic 4K TVs

The company's new Ultra HD displays now support 4K streaming through Netflix. 

Panasonic has released a firmware update for its 2014 line of Ultra HD TVs, adding full 4K streaming support for Netflix content. The 2.10 firmware upgrade also offers updated Network Applications, improvements for myStream, and introduces a Remote Sharing function.

While Panasonic's 2014 lineup of 4K TVs shipped with integrated support for the HEVC H.265 codec used for 4K playback, Panasonic and Netflix had not finalized an agreement for streaming rights. Thankfully, the two companies have squared things away, and now Panasonic Ultra HD display owners can take advantage of Netflix's growing lineup of 4K content. The streaming service's current selection of Ultra HD media includes 'House of Cards,' 'Breaking Bad,' 'The Blacklist,' 'Ghostbusters,' 'Ghostbusters 2,' and 'Smurfs 2.' With that said, new 4K TV owners and subscribers will have to pay a slight premium for the added resolution, as Netflix recently revealed an $11.99 fee for 4K streaming -- $3 more than the standard $8.99 monthly fee.

Panasonic's new Ultra HD collection includes the 58AX800U ($2,000) and 65AX800U ($3,000). Both LCD models feature local dimming technology and THX certified picture. The new firmware upgrade is available now.

Source: Digital Trends, Panasonic