KT unveils 8K resolution AI IPTV set-top box

South Korea's KT Corp. unveiled the first IPTV set-top box supporting 8K resolution (33.2 megapixels) with on-device AI capabilities on Tuesday.

According to KT, the Genie TV Set-top Box is the world’s first IPTV set-top box equipped with an 8K UHD chipset.

The device provides optimized audio for various content genres—such as movies, dramas, news, music, games, and sports—and features a Voice Enhancement function.

With the AI Select function, users can quickly find specific scenes or people within content, allowing them to watch only their favorite singers and actor's performances.

The device also includes an AI Sign Language feature, where an AI character provides real-time sign language interpretation during emergency broadcasts.

Then the TV is off, it can switch to an AI Background mode that displays weather updates or quotes from recommended books.

When nearby devices are powered on, the set-top box detects the remote infrared signal and shows automatic connection guidance on the screen. Surrounding devices can also be voice-controlled.

The box includes a light sensor, microphone, Android TV OS 14, and Dolby Atmos to enable ambient detection and automatic screen brightness and sound adjustments.

Moreover, the AI-based 8K upscaling technology enhances the quality of Full HD and 4K content from live broadcasts, streaming services, and YouTube for ultra-high-definition viewing.

Through a strategic partnership with Microsoft, KT plans to introduce a high-performance AI agent specifically designed for Genie TV next year.

Write to Ju-Hyun Lee at deep@hankyung.com