Panasonic 2014 4K TV models, like the AX800 we recently reviewed, have always supported H.265 (HEVC) decoding — the same encoding scheme used by Netflix for its 4K content — however, Panasonic had yet to seal the deal with Netflix for streaming rights. With Netflix now on board, it remains to be seen whether or not Panasonic will have a deal in place to support Amazon Prime Instant video’s 4K streams when they go live later this month.
The bad news for non-existing Netflix subscribers is that the cost to access Netflix’s 4K content just grew by 50 percent. New subscribers must now pay $11.99 (versus the standard $7.99 subscription) in order to get at the 4K streams. The top subscription tier also allows for streaming on up to four devices at once. Those who already subscribe to Netflix at the $7.99 level will continue to get access to Netflix’s 4K titles at no additional charge, for up to two more years.
