4K streaming is definitely the next frontier for the likes of Amazon and Netflix, but so far there’s no clear frontrunner in this race. Netflix might take the charge in 2014 though, its Chief Product Officer Neil Hunt told Stuff that Netflix is going to stream the second season of its insanely popular House of Cards original series in 4K next year. He didn’t mention specific manufacturers, but said that the option to stream in 4K will be offered through smart TV apps available on next generation 4K TVs.
Don’t get too excited if you have recently picked up a next generation gaming console from Microsoft or Sony. Hunt says that the consoles might “eventually” be capable of streaming content from Netflix in 4K, but it will take some time. Right now Netflix is talking about 4K streaming capability built into smart TVs. Hunt confirmed that Netflix is working with David Fincher on House of Cards season 2, “that’s all being shot and edited for 4K delivery.” Apart from its acclaimed drama series, it will also offer additional 4K content that will actually be a set of sample offerings. Hunt acknowledges that its going to take a while before there is ample 4K material available for streaming, but he believes that its important for the company to “get out front and begin to push it.”