Smithsonian Channel To Offer 4K Programming

Smithsonian Channel on Thursday said it will offer 10 hours of 4K programming on demand beginning in April, saying it's the first linear network to offer ultra-high-definition content on demand.

Smithsonian said it will provide 4K documentaries and shows for free to subscribers through their MVPD providers beginning in second quarter 2017. The network added that it is working with top cable, satellite and telco distributors to launch the on demand programming.

“We’re proud to be the first US network to offer this 4K On Demand model,” Tom Hayden, president of Smithsonian Channel (part of CBS-owned Showtime Networks), said in a release. “With programming genres including air and space, history, nature, wildlife and travel at its finest, our new 4K model is sure to enhance the viewing experience, providing striking visuals for our consumers.”

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.