Since the debut of Ultra HD 4K TVs at CES in January, Sony has become the first to offer 4K televisions to consumers with its new line of screens available through its Bravia brand. The first 4K Bravia sets are 55- and 65-inch models priced in the $7,000 range, while an 84-inch unit costs as much as $25,000. As an incentive, Sony is including a set of 10 4K mastered Blu-ray movies, and plans to launch a digital download service with more content.

“The move is significant because the TV biz is eager to prop up sluggish sales of flatscreens,” suggests Variety. “4K could very well be the next-generation technology that will give the needed boost. That’s especially true as more consumers opt for TV sets larger than 40 inches.”

Sony’s movie offerings include “Ghostbusters,” “The Amazing Spider-Man,” “Taxi Driver” and “Angels & Demons,” with more TV shows and feature films expected soon.

“The creative community likes 4K over HD for its ability to offer sharper images, greater contrast, color and other details,” notes Variety. “Whereas most HDTVs broadcast images featuring 1080p resolution — or 2 million pixels per frame — 4K TVs boast 8.8 million pixels. April’s ‘Oblivion’ was lensed in 4K, for example, and DirecTV, Dish and Verizon’s FiOS are considering adding 4K channels in time for soccer’s World Cup in Brazil next year. There are now 100 movies available in 4K resolution.”

Manufacturers such as LG, Sharp, Panasonic and Samsung will have 4K units available through retailers soon. LG, which also launched an 84-inch Ultra HD TV, is taking pre-orders in Korea for its 55 and 65-inch 4K models, expected for July availability.

“Korean customers with money to burn can pick up the 55-inch set for 7.4 million Won (about $6,541) and the larger variant for 10.9 million ($9,635),” reports Engadget. “Hardly cheap, but comparable to the competition and definitely an affordable alternative to LG’s $20,000 display.”