Study: 4K to come to more mobile devices, but 'content will trail adoption'

The premium end of the smartphone market is currently dominated by 2K or "quad HD" displays, but it is now expected that the latest generation of screens will start to increase.

However, ABI Research said that the availability of content – much like the case with 4K TV at the moment – is a notable barrier; content providers are expected to prioritise the delivery of content to TVs to begin with.

Senior analyst Michael Inouye said: "While mobile device components, such as processor, memory and in some cases batteries, are gearing up to handle 4K, network and infrastructure elements remain challenging.

"Content protection and data utilisation concerns are part of the issue, but consumers also have not demanded higher resolution video in adequate numbers for services to respond."

Practice director Sam Rosen added: "New connections like wired MHL 3.0 and wireless 802.11ad can help position mobile devices as a hub for streaming high-quality video and gaming to TVs.

"Qualcomm’s acquisition of Wilocity and push of 802.11ad could further encourage OTT companies and TV manufacturers to embrace the technology and bring high-res video to TVs via mobile devices."

MORE: Ultra HD 4K TV – reviews, news and everything you need to know

Pete was content editor on What Hi-Fi?, overseeing production and publication of digital content. In creating and curating feature articles for web and print consumption, he provided digital and editorial expertise and support to help reposition What Hi-Fi? as a ‘digital-first’ title; reflecting the contemporary media trends. He is now a senior content strategist. 

Latest in Smartphones
The Google Pixel 9a being held horizontally at waist-height so only the back is visible.
The Google Pixel 9a launches at £100 less than the iPhone 16e with a better screen
iPhone 16 Plus smartphone
Got an old iPhone? We'll help you decide on how to upgrade
iPhone 16e in black and white on a white background
iPhone 16e vs Sony Xperia 10 VI: what are the differences?
A blue iPhone 16 pictured next to a white iPhone 16e
The iPhone 16e's downgrades are in all the right places if, like me, movies on the move are your priority
iPhone 16e on white background
Apple officially unveils the affordable iPhone 16e complete with an OLED display and Dolby Atmos support
A blue iPhone 16 pictured next to a white iPhone 16e
iPhone 16e vs iPhone 16: what's the difference, and which one should you buy?
Latest in News
Audiolab 6000A MkII amplifier in silver
Audiolab upgrades its five-star 6000A amplifier with a new DAC chip, enhanced circuitry and HDMI ARC
Qobuz
Qobuz reveals average payout per stream – and claims it is higher than rivals
Sonos Beam Gen 2
Quick! This five-star Sonos Dolby Atmos soundbar has dropped close to its lowest price
The Google Pixel 9a being held horizontally at waist-height so only the back is visible.
The Google Pixel 9a launches at £100 less than the iPhone 16e with a better screen
A woman flicking through stacks of vinyl records in a Rough Trade shop.
Vinyl records and music streaming both hit landmark highs – but the one growing faster in revenue may surprise you
Vertere DG X turntable in black finish
Vertere's gorgeous DG X turntable features significant updates for a more refined performance overall