DirecTV has announced the introduction of the 4K Genie Mini set-top box, allowing customers who also own an HDMI 2.0-compliant UHD TV to access DirecTV's assortment of on-demand UHD content. Previously, this content was only accessible for those who owned both a DirecTV Genie DVR (HR34 or higher) and a Samsung RVU-enabled UHD TV. The new 4K Genie Mini also offers Dolby Digital Plus audio decoding.

From DirecTV
A new set-top box from DIRECTV, now part of the AT&T family, makes it possible for more customers to watch 4K Ultra HD (UHD) programming on nearly any 4K TV.

The new 4K Genie Mini, which is about the size of a paperback book, offers full Genie and 4K capability. This will expand the number of customers who can enjoy 4K movies without the need for a DIRECTV-Ready 4K TV. In addition to superior picture resolution, the 4K Genie Mini also supports Dolby Digital Plus audio decoding. Customers can find requirements for compatible 4K TVs at https://www.directv.com/technology/4k.

"Customers who want the best picture quality are creating more demand for 4K," said Henry Derovanessian, senior vice president Consumer Premise Engineering, DIRECTV, part of the AT&T family. "The new 4K Genie Mini allows us to meet that demand by expanding 4K access to more of our customers nationwide."

DIRECTV currently offers a variety of 4K UHD titles, including new releases, popular films and nature documentaries.

DIRECTV launched 4K UHD programming in November 2014 through its Genie HD DVR, which is currently in millions of DIRECTV customer homes. The Genie HD DVR allows receiver-less connections to supporting DIRECTV 4K Ready UHD TVs from Samsung with instant access to DIRECTV 4K VOD movies. LG, Sony, and additional TV manufacturers are coming soon.

Additional Resources
• What 4K Content Can You Enjoy Right Now? at HomeTheaterReview.com.
• Comcast to Launch Ultra HD Set-Top Box at HomeTheaterReview.com.