The next generation of high definition television, Super Hi-Vision, will become a consumer service earlier than anticipated, it was revealed at IBC.

The 8k format was initially promised for 2025 but engineers at Japan's NHK, one of the broadcaster's involved in its development, have suggested that a full production system will be possible by 2020 with public attended applications possible even earlier.

NHK's project leader, Dr Keiichi Kubota, said NHK's goal is for Super Hi-Vision to be enjoyed in every home. “It is our responsibility to show broadcasters and network operators that it is not just a dream but a real future television system," he said.

Live Super Hi-Vision was shown at IBC on a 275-inch theatre screen delivered to Amsterdam via fibre and satellite from London and Torino with partners that included outside broadcaster SIS, Cable and Wireless and Siemens.

NHK has developed a special 8k sensor with 33 megapixels for the prototype Super Hi-Vision camera systems and is using prototype projectors.

However, despite optimism and the revelation that the compression technology which will allow the transmission of Super Hi-Vision is improving, domestic displays and television sets are still some way off.

Research and Development support comes from the BBC, RAI and the EBU.

Super Hi-Vision provides 7680 x 4320 pixel (32 million pixels) images with 22.2 channel audio. HDTV offers two million pixels at 1920 x 1080.

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