Alticast announced today the first availability of a 4K ultra high definition set-top box on a commercial basis throughout a cable operator’s entire service footprint in Canada. The illico 4K Ultra HD PVR allows Videotron to deliver 4K content, while retaining features including multi-room PVR capabilities, interactive applications and integration with the op’s back-office systems.

“The ability to combine the richness of 4K content with managed network quality of service will be a significant differentiator for pay TV,” John Carlucci, president and CTO at Alticast US, observes.

“The tremendous promise that 4K UHD holds for our customers can only be realized by true commitment on the part of the entire industry,” Pierre Roy, VP engineering, research and development at Videotron, says. “Alticast and our other technology partners have helped us to create the technical foundation that had already generated market enthusiasm and satisfy customer demand for UHD services.”

According to an Alticast press release, Videotron’s deployment of the illico 4K Ultra HD PVR gives the Quebec operator access to three UHD success ingredients: “UHD device penetration; the availability of UHD content with the superior color, contrast and brightness enabled by its high dynamic range (HDR); and consumer awareness of the value of the new technology.”