The Olympics In 4K: Do You Need a Cable or Satellite Sub to Watch It?

By Phillip Swann
The TV Answer Man –Follow me on X.

TV Answer Man, I saw your article on the Olympics in 4K. My question to you is this: Do you need a cable or satellite subscription, or YouTube TV, to watch the Olympics in 4K? Is there any other way? — Tony, Las Vegas. 

Tony, NBC confirmed two weeks ago that its coverage of the 2024 Summer Olympics Games from Paris, which will be held from 8 a.m. ET on July 24 to 5:30 p.m. ET on August 11, will include an upscaled 4K feed. The network said the 4K feed will be a simulcast of USA Network’s broadcast, which will include more than 400 hours of events.

To watch the USA Network’s 4K simulcast, you will need a subscription to one of the following TV providers: Altice (Optimum TV), Comcast, Cox, DIRECTV/DIRECTV Stream, Dish, Fubo, Verizon, YouTube TV, and select participating NCTC members.

Update: Sling TV will also carry the games in 4K.

There will be no other way to watch the Olympics in 4K. It will not be in 4K on Peacock, any other NBC-owned app, or via an antenna. The USA Network 4K simulcast will be the only 4K offering and you will need one of those TV services that will carry it.

The USA Network’s 4K broadcasts will focus on Team USA and team sports like Basketball, Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Volleyball, and Water Polo. Other sports like Track and Field, 3×3 Basketball, Cycling, and Swimming will also be featured on USA in 4K.

Tony, hope that helps. Happy viewing and stay safe!

The TV Answer Man is veteran journalist Phillip Swann who has covered the TV technology scene for more than three decades. He will report on the latest news and answer your questions regarding new devices and services that are changing the way you watch television. See the bio for Phillip Swann here.

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