MediaTek launches UltraCast, a 4K video streaming technology

MediaTek announced a new technology for wirelessly streaming 4K content from smartphones to TVs and set-top boxes, called UltraCast. The technology relies on the existing Miracast standard, which allows for streaming HD (up to 1080p) video between mobile devices and external displays, but expands upon it by adding 4K support.

UltraCast will be available on smartphones powered by MediaTek's proprietary Helio chipsets, as well as HDTVs using the company's 4K chipsets, but all third-party phonemakers, TV and set top-box manufacturers are also welcome to implement the technology in their products.

Miracast is a way to stream content wirelessly between connected devices, but the certification for the standard does not outline a maximum latency limit, meaning devices powered by the technology exercise little to no control over the time between content being displayed on the source device and the mirrored display. It is currently unknown how this may affect 4K streaming.

"By making it possible for users to enjoy 4K content over MediaTek UltraCast technology and leveraging the existing 4K recording capabilities on smartphone platforms and 4K Ultra HDTV, MediaTek can offer a better, more affordable experience and a smart, cost-effective alternative for device makers,” said said SR Tsai, Senior General Manager of the Home Entertainment Business Group at MediaTek.

UltraCast is now available for MediaTek partners.