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3D Television A Reality? ESPN 3D Set For 2010, Sony and Discovery To Develop New Network
Though 3D film dates back to the 1950s, the technology is hotter than ever following the worldwide success of James Cameron’s Avatar. While many are predicting that 3D gaming will eventually become the standard (Ubisoft has already stepped into the trend with its 3D compatible Avatar-based game), the television industry is gearing up for a huge push towards 3D, signaled by two major announcements made today.
Sports fans will be able to enter into the third dimension in 2010, when ESPN will launch ESPN 3D. The new network plans to broadcast no less than 85 live sporting events in 3D. It will go on air on June 11th, with the first match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament, showcasing South Africa versus Mexico. Other planned 3D broadcasts include the 2011 BSC National Championship Game, 25 other World Cup matches, and the Summer X Games.
To view games in 3D, fans will need a 3D compatible television (click here for full list of 3D ready HDTVs), 3D glasses, and – in some cases – a special set top box.
Also revealed today was news that three entertainment giants – Discovery, Sony, and IMAX – have partnered to develop the U.S.’s first 24/7 dedicated 3D television network. With Discovery’s cable television might, coupled with Sony and IMAX’s technology in both film, television, and computer graphics, the hope is the new network will help drive 3D as a new standard in home television viewing. Sony itself has announced plans to launch a new 3D compatible line of Bravia televisions as well as its intent to incorporate a new 3D standard into its PlayStation 3 game console and Blu-ray disc format. Currently, there is no official date as to when this new network might begin broadcasting.
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