http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=5BF9E09ECEC8F88F

YouTube today announced support for videos shot in 4K (4096 x 3072 pixels) – a mega HD format designed for screens up to 25 feet wide.

This level of resolution may seem like overkill – but devices like the iPhone are demonstrating that more pixels per inch is better, and TV screens are likely to follow.

Here’s what YouTube had to say about 4K video support:

We always want videos on YouTube to be available in the highest quality possible, as creators intend. In December of last year, we announced support for 1080p, or full HD. At 4096 x 3072 pixels, 4K is nearly four times the size of 1080p. To view any video in a source resolution greater than 1080p, select “Original” in the video quality pulldown menu.

Because 4K represents the highest quality of video available, there are a few limitations that you should be aware of. First off, video cameras that shoot in 4K aren’t cheap, and projectors that show videos in 4K are typically the size of a small refrigerator. And, as we mentioned, watching these videos on YouTube will require super-fast broadband.

Check out the playlist above for a few examples of 4K videos. YouTube notes that streaming videos in 4K requires an ultra-fast high-speed broadband connection.

While 4K video is welcome, adding support for longer videos would be a lot more useful for most. Few people will have access to 4K cameras – but just about anyone posting YouTube videos would welcome the option to upload longer videos.

What do you think about YouTube’s 4K HD video announcement? Leave a comment with your thoughts!