3D Display Revenues Forecast to Reach $22B by 2018; 3D-Ready TV Shipments to Reach 64M Units

In its recently released 3D Display Technology and Market Forecast Report, DisplaySearch forecasts that the total stereoscopic 3D display market will grow from 0.7 million units and $902 million in revenues in 2008 to 196 million units and $22 billion in revenues in 2018, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38% for revenues and 75% for units.

3D displays are taking off with consumers due to increasing availability of 3D content. In addition, 3D standardization has also been addressed or is being evaluated in several 3D organizations.

In its recently released 3D Display Technology and Market Forecast Report, DisplaySearch forecasts that the total stereoscopic 3D display market will grow from 0.7 million units and $902 million in revenues in 2008 to 196 million units and $22 billion in revenues in 2018, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38% for revenues and 75% for units.

Figure 1: 3D Display Forecast, Source: 3D Display Technology and Market Forecast ReportThe market for 3D displays—which is encouraged by the recent success of 3D cinema—is forecast to take off in 2010, providing a welcome boost to the electronics industry. “3D displays are taking off with consumers due to increasing availability of 3D content. In addition, 3D standardization has also been addressed or is being evaluated in several 3D organizations,” noted Jennifer Colegrove, Director of Display Technologies at DisplaySearch. “A number of manufacturers of consumer electronics devices, including TVs, monitors, notebooks, Blu-ray disc players, and digital cameras/camcorders/photo frames have aggressively promoted 3D in the home. In addition to consumer use of 3D displays, the technology has also been used for many professional applications and advertisement/public displays.”

DisplaySearch forecasts 3D-ready TVs will grow from 0.2 million units in 2009 to 64 million units in 2018. 3D-ready TV will be the largest application in terms of revenue in 2018 with $17 billion (Figure 1).

Additional findings from the DisplaySearch 3D Display Technology and Market Forecast Report:

3D-ready monitors will grow from 40K units (0.02% penetration) in 2009 to 10 million (3.6% penetration) in 2018.
3D notebook PCs are forecast to grow from 66K units (0.04% penetration) in 2009 to 17.7 million (3.2% penetration) in 2018.
Mobile phones will be the largest 3D display application on a unit shipment basis in 2018, with 71 million units with 3D capability.
The largest screen size category for 3D display shipments will be 1-4.x”, due to demand from mobile phone and digital camera/camcorder applications. The second largest size range will be 40-49”, due to TV, public display and 40+ monitor applications.

LCD will be the primary display technology used for 3D displays, as a result of its wide range of display applications ranging from small mobile phones to large public displays and TVs.

Eyewear will be necessary for most 3D applications for many years to come, due to the limitations of auto-stereoscopic (no glasses) technologies.

DisplaySearch forecasts there will be more than 7,000 new 3D cinema screens installed in 2010 and an additional 9,000 in 2011.

The DisplaySearch 3D Display Technology and Market Forecast Report is a comprehensive analysis of the stereoscopic 3D display technologies and their market forecasts through 2018. The report profiles about 150 3D display-related companies, with a breakdown by technology for 3D display and supply chain. 3D image creation and processing, human factors, content delivery and standardization are also discussed in the report. The Excel database provides a pivot table with market forecasts for units, revenues and ASPs, by nine size breakdowns, and ten applications: TV, mobile phone, digital camera/camcorder, digital photo frame, head-mounted display, notebook PC, monitor (<39.x”), 40+” monitor, public display, cinema and other applications.

The report analyzes over a dozen 3D display technologies, focusing on six categories in the market forecast: passive glasses with one panel, passive glasses with two panels, active glasses, no glasses (auto-stereoscopic), head-mounted display and holographic/volume. The report also covers touch screens for 3D displays. For more information on this report, please contact Charles Camaroto at 1.888.436.7673 or 1.516.625.2452, or contact@displaysearch.com or contact your regional DisplaySearch office in China, Japan, Korea or Taiwan.

The DisplaySearch 12th Annual USFPD Conference, called “Laying the Foundations for the Next Wave of Growth: Energy Efficient & Low Cost Alternatives Lead the Way” will be held March 2-3, 2010 at the Hilton San Diego Resort in San Diego, California. The event will focus on all major and emerging flat panel display applications, as well as key components and materials related to the supply chain. To view the agenda and register, visit www.displaysearch.com/usfpd. Register by January 25, 2010 to receive the early bird discount and save $400! Media interested in attending the USFPD Conference should contact Stacey Voorhees-Harmon at stacey(at)savvypublicrelations(dot)net or call +1.925.336.9592.

About DisplaySearch
Since 1996, DisplaySearch has been recognized as a leading global market research and consulting firm specializing in the $770 billion display supply chain, as well as the emerging photovoltaic/solar cell industries. DisplaySearch provides trend information, forecasts and analyses developed by a global team of experienced analysts with extensive industry knowledge and resources. In collaboration with the NPD Group, its parent company, DisplaySearch uniquely offers a true, end-to-end view of the display supply chain from materials and components to shipments of electronic devices with displays to sales of major consumer and commercial channels. For more information on DisplaySearch analysts, reports and industry events, visit us at www.displaysearch.com. Read our blog at www.displaysearchblog.com and follow us on Twitter at @DisplaySearch.

Sony Heralds Era of 3D Entertainment in 2010

Consumers will be able to enjoy 3D with “BRAVIA” LCD TVs, “Blu-ray Disc” Products, “VAIO”, Digital Still Cameras and PlayStation®3

Sony today announced plans to accelerate initiatives to deliver an array of 3D entertainment to the home in 2010, leveraging all its diverse business assets to create a 3D world encompassing electronics and games to movie content.

Sony also showcased the first of its ground-breaking line up of 3D entertainment products for the home at a press conference in Dubai.

Addressing the media, Hiroyasu Sugiyama, General Manager, 3D Strategy Office, Sony Corporation, Japan, said: “Today, we have brought the latest 3D experience for you to enjoy. For Sony, 3D is strategically very important, and we are committed to lead the 3D industry.

“In the 3D space, Sony is very uniquely positioned compared to other consumer electronics makers because we are not only going to sell 3D compatible consumer hardware but also ensure there is affluent variety of 3D content that consumers can enjoy.”

Sony is introducing the following 3D compatible consumer electronics products within this year, enabling users to enjoy an array of immersive 3D content in the home:

3D compatible “BRAVIA” LCD TVs, “Blu-ray 3D™” compatible Blu-ray Disc?players, and “Blu-ray 3D” compatible home theatre systems. 3D compatible VAIO PCs and 3D compatible digital still cameras.

For PlayStation®3, the global installed base of which is approximately 30 million units with more than half a million units in the Middle East, Sony will provide firmware updates making PlayStation®3 units compatible with 3D stereoscopic games. And with a separate firmware update, they will also become compatible with “Blu-ray 3D” discs.

In the Middle East, cable television service providers such as E-vision, ORBIT SHOWTIME and broadcasters such as Al Jazeera are upgrading their bouquet to provide the latest in entertainment technology and are in active discussion with companies to bring 3D to Middle Eastern homes in 2010.

Speaking at the press conference, Osamu Miura, Managing Director, Sony Gulf, said: “Clearly, 3D has already captured the imagination of filmmakers, content creators and broadcasters. Sony is moving to bring that magic directly into consumers’ homes with movies, games, and sporting events, all in 3D, in 2010.

“Today, 3D is the next generation of home entertainment and, with our technological leadership, we stand at the forefront of 3D technology.”

Sony’s range of professional 3D products is also driving the growth of 3D production and distribution across a range of entertainment industries, from theatre and music performances to sport and beyond.

Andy Hotten, Senior Product Manager, Sony Professional Solutions, Europe, said: “At Sony, we not only have the products to bring 3D to the home we also have a complete line up of professional products suitable for production of high quality 3D content for both movie makers and broadcasters. We are hence able to offer a complete Sony solution from the lens to the living room.”

Humaid Rashid Sahoo, CEO of E-Vision, said: “3D broadcasting and 3D television sets will form the next new standard in the world of home entertainment. As specialists in television broadcasting, our network has the ability to provide 3D broadcasting service, which we will launch in a timely manner, depending on the readiness of the market and the availability of appropriate content.

“E-Vision has always taken the initiative to launch the latest TV broadcasting technology in the UAE, and undoubtedly the greatest credit for our success is due to our clients who have come to expect the best from us.”

Sony is uniquely positioned to deliver compelling content that enhances the 3D experience. In addition to PlayStation®3 games in 3D, Sony will film major sporting events in 3D (e.g. FIFA World Cup 2010, Sony Open in Hawaii, a golf tournament organized by the PGA Tour) that will be made available to consumers through various channels.

Last but not least, the availability of “Blu-ray 3D” compatible players will herald the arrival of many new 3D films on high definition “Blu-ray 3D™” discs, coinciding with the launch of 3D compatible “BRAVIA” TVs later this year.

3D TV Moves Into Focus

Work underway at ITU sets out roadmap for highly advanced new broadcasting systems that mimic real-life visual experience

Television viewers could soon be enjoying their favourite programmes or feature films in ‘stereoscopic 3D’, thanks to ground-breaking work being undertaken at ITU.

Study Group 6 of ITU’s Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) has released a new Report outlining a roadmap for future 3D TV implementation, which envisages systems so smart they accurately mimic the way our eyes and brains perceive the visual world.

The new roadmap would see 3D TV technology rolled out in three successive generations (technically known as profiles).

The first generation — ‘plano-stereoscopic television’ — calls for two views to be delivered to viewers’ TV sets. Wearing special glasses similar to those used to watch 3D cinema, viewers will be able to see depth in the picture, although the view will remain the same when they move their heads (in real life, our view changes when we move our heads).

The second generation will provide for multiple views, with head movement changing the view, for a viewing experience that more closely mimics real life.

The third generation will feature systems that record the amplitude, frequency, and phase of light waves, to reproduce almost completely human beings’ natural viewing environment. These kinds of highly advanced systems are technically some 15-20 years away.

“This new ITU report establishes a clear framework for the development of new types of systems that will totally change the way we experience broadcast and multimedia content,” said Valery Timofeev, Director of ITU’s Radiocommunication Bureau. “It maps out an exciting vision that won’t just change the look of entertainment, but open up a whole range of exciting new possibilities in sectors from education and healthcare to traffic management.”

New 3D TV technologies being developed under the auspices of ITU will also have major implications for the film and television production sector, as content will need to be filmed using special new equipment in order for viewers to enjoy the full 3D experience.

Christoph Dosch, Chairman of ITU-R Study Group 6 said: “This is an important step forward on the road to globally-agreed ITU Recommendations on 3D TV. I’m optimistic that we’ll make further advances at our next meeting in April 2010.”

DirecTV Getting Into 3D

DIRECTV, Inc., the world’s most popular television service, and Panasonic, a world leader in HDTV and digital electronics, announced today a strategic relationship that, for the first time, will bring 3D TV, the next frontier of television entertainment, to the largest audience nationwide. Beginning in June 2010, millions of DIRECTV HD customers will receive a free software upgrade enabling them to have access to three dedicated 3D channels through their 3D television sets, such as Panasonic’s VIERA Full HD 3D TVs.

Panasonic will be the exclusive presenting sponsor of DIRECTV’s new HD 3D channels, which will deliver movies, sports and entertainment content from some of the world’s most renowned 3D producers. DIRECTV and Panasonic will leverage current relationships with programming partners and movie studios to obtain new and existing 3D content. DIRECTV is currently working with AEG/AEG Digital Media, CBS, Fox Sports/FSN, Golden Boy Promotions, HDNet, MTV, NBC Universal and Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., to develop additional 3D programming that will debut in 2010-2011. The sponsorship will feature Panasonic branding on all DIRECTV 3D channels for a one-year period.

“We led the way with HD and we are excited to do the same with 3D,” said Eric Shanks, executive vice president, DIRECTV Entertainment. “Adding the most HD channels to our lineup gave customers a viewing experience that was incredibly lifelike; adding 3D to the mix will take that one step further allowing them to become part of the cast as the picture comes to life in their living rooms. We are taking a technology that at one time could only be seen in a theater and bringing it into the living rooms of the largest audience in the United States. By partnering with Panasonic, we are bringing together two industry leaders to deliver the most advanced television technology available today and together we are continuing to set the standard for the best television viewing experience available.”

“Panasonic has been developing 3D standards for television for several years, and we believe it represents a fundamentally new experience in home entertainment because it adds the immersive nature of real life,” said Yoshi Yamada, chairman & CEO of Panasonic Corporation of North America. “Our relationship with DIRECTV is a core component of our ‘end-to-end’ strategy of building out an entire 3D entertainment ecosystem. From leading the development of the Full HD 3D standard for Blu-ray Disc to launching Full HD 3D stereoscopic prosumer camcorders; to now supporting broadcast of 3D content by DIRECTV; to introducing a broad line of Full HD 3D VIERA televisions and a Full HD 3D Blu-ray player in 2010; our commitment to 3D is unquestioned in the industry.”

At launch, the new DIRECTV HD 3D programming platform, powered by Panasonic, will offer a 24/7 3D pay per view channel focused on movies, documentaries and other programming, a 24/7 3D DIRECTV on Demand channel and a free 3D sampler demo channel featuring event programming such as sports, music and other content.

In addition, Panasonic is working to make available 3D production tools, such as Full HD 3D camcorders, professional monitors and related production technology assistance.

Panasonic will showcase its suite of Full HD 3D VIERA televisions and home theater system products tuned to a dedicated DIRECTV 3D channel with exclusive content from the motion picture, “AVATAR” and other sports, entertainment, documentary and music footage at its booth (Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall, #9405) at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

Porn to drive adoption of 3D consumer hardware

For the first time ever, a company is offering consumers a turnkey digital 3D viewing system and a 3D content subscription service for in-home digital HD 3D entertainment. Southern California’s Bad Girls in 3D will be unveiling its complete in-home digital 3D system at Booth 7032 at the AVN Adult Entertainment Expo January 7-10, 2010 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas, NV.

As Hollywood celebrates its latest digital theatrical event, it is at home that most people will really experience the 3D revolution … and its happening now.

“For several decades, the adult entertainment industry has driven adoption of every significant new entertainment delivery system — the VHS home-video craze in the 1980s, the satellite television mania in the 1990s and the present day internet,” said Lance B. Johnson of Bad Girls in 3D. “2010 and beyond will be all about 3D. Society’s enthusiasm for 3D films is largely responsible for the record $10 billion in box office revenues in 2009.”

“We want to bring this technology into the home and we will do this via a hardware “bundle” that will work with streaming 3D porn. We are offering a complete turnkey in-home solution as well as a monthly subscription service. You can log onto to Badgirlsin3d.com to purchase the complete hardware package and subscribe. From there, simply turn on your PC, log on to badgirlsin3d.com and put on the active 3D glasses. It’s that simple!”

“We’ve partnered with the best active 3D shutter glass supplier for home theater because active technology has been embraced by the world’s leading display manufactures like Panasonic, Sony and Mitsubishi,” explained Johnson. “We believe, the in-home delivery system we’ve put together is the very best of today’s available digital 3D technology. The system provides a truly astonishing immersive 3D experience at a very affordable price.”

The potential of 3D pornography was established long ago with the 1969 release of The Stewardesses. The soft core film played in theaters for over two years and grossed an astonishing $27 million.

Just last week it was reported that James Cameron’s ground-breaking 3D film Avatar grossed over $1 billion in its first 17 days … and it continues to sellout theaters around the globe. The film’s anticipated and actual success is having an immediate impact on mainstream 3D film and television. On January 5, 2010, ESPN announced it will be begin 3D broadcasting in June.

The 3D market is expected to be worth tens of billions in the next couple of years. LG Electronics recently announced it plans to sell 400,000 3D TVs in 2010 and 3.4 million in 2011 and Sony is targeting revenue from 3D related products of more than US $11.3 billion in its fiscal year ending March 31, 2013. A recent report entitled 3DTV Market Analysis: Transition From Cinema to Living Room suggests that in just four years there will be 46 million 3D TVs in existence.

On December 17, 2009, the Blu-ray Disc Association announced the release of “Blu-ray 3D” standards. This paves the way for widespread production of 3D Bluray DVD equipment by the major electronics manufacturers in 2010. Johnson stated, “The Bad Girls in 3D equipment bundle is compatible with the Blu-ray specifications and we plan to release our content on 3D discs when the consumer equipment becomes available in the next few months.”

“We feel our content and delivery system creates a virtual voyeuristic and participatory reaction from viewers.” said Johnson. The available Bad Girls in 3D content currently includes solo girl and boy/girl scenes but the company plans to expand its available content to satisfy a variety of tastes particularly for the European and Asian markets. “With our content we are aiming to create an immersive reality for all of our customers,” stated Johnson.

For more information contact: Lance B. Johnson at lance@badgirlsin3d.com and visit www.badgirlsin3d.com. Bad Girls in 3D will be demonstrating its products at Booth 7032 at the AVN Adult Entertainment Expo January 7-10, 2010 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas, NV.

3ality Digital to Support the Launch of Sky’s Groundbreaking 3D TV Services

Industry Leaders Team Up for Pioneering Broadcast Initiative

BSkyB (Sky), the UK’s leading entertainment and communications company, and 3ality Digital, LLC (www.3alitydigital.com), the world’s premier provider of 3D technology, have announced they are to collaborate on the launch of what will become the first 3D TV services in the UK and Ireland. Launching in 2010, Sky’s 3D TV services will use 3ality Digital’s state-of-the-art camera rigs and image processors to capture much of the programming it plans to broadcast.

Sky’s 3D TV service will be broadcast across Sky’s existing High Definition (HD) infrastructure and be available via the current generation of Sky+HD set-top boxes. 1.6 million homes are already equipped with Sky+HD. To watch 3D content, Sky+HD customers are only required to upgrade to a 3D-enabled television set, a wide range of which will begin to be retailed in 2010.

“The launch of Sky’s 3D TV services this year will mark a milestone in British broadcasting, giving customers a whole new dimension to their TV viewing experience,” said Brian Lenz, Sky’s Director of Product Design and TV Product Development. “Utilizing 3ality Digital’s technology and equipment will be a key component in providing our customers with a cutting edge entertainment experience.”

“Sky is leading the way in its commitment to offering the next generation of television,” said Steve Schklair, CEO of 3ality Digital Systems, the technology and production arm of 3ality Digital, LLC. “The success of its 3D broadcasting initiative is critical to the industry. We are proud that Sky has selected 3ality Digital as the camera and image processing systems supporting its launch.”

“We’re proud to collaborate with Sky as the company works to deliver on its commitment to pioneer 3D broadcasting,” said 3ality Digital, LLC CEO Sandy Climan. “Our state-of-the-art automation processes and the full metadata capture built into our camera platforms will ensure Sky 3D programming is compelling, immersive and dynamic.”

The agreement with Sky represents the latest in a long line of broadcast firsts for 3ality Digital. In the past 13 months alone, 3ality Digital technology powered the first-ever live 3D broadcast of an NFL game and the first live 3D sports broadcast available to consumers.

During the same period, the company also shot the live-action footage for the first 3D commercial broadcast on television, as well as the first episode of a scripted television series shot in digital live-action 3D.

Sky’s 3D TV service will provide its customers with a comprehensive mix of programming, spanning sports, movies, entertainment, documentaries and the arts, including live content.

“3ality Digital has always felt that it was essential to develop tools that integrate seamlessly into a standard 2D production environment, and enable the capture of professional quality live-action 3D with minimal impact on workflow,” said Howard Postley, COO/CTO of 3ality Digital Systems. “Sky put these tools through a rigorous testing process, and we are delighted that we met its expectations.”

3ality Digital began making its automated 3flex(TM) camera rigs available for sale in April, 2009 as part of the company’s continuing effort to expand the creation and distribution of live-action 3D entertainment. Developed using proprietary intellectual property, the rigs are manufactured to aerospace-level precision. When used with 3ality Digital’s rig software controller (SPC) and Stereo Image Processing Systems (SIPS), the 3flex rigs allow operators to capture nearly pixel-perfect live-action 3D footage.

3flex camera systems use sophisticated artificial intelligence to sense the environment and ensure the highest image quality. The systems feature semi-automatic setup and alignment, as well as full 3D metadata output.

About 3ality Digital

3ality Digital develops enabling technologies to power live-action 3D entertainment from image capture through broadcast, independent of viewing environment. 3ality Digital’s camera platforms, stereo image processing systems, and 3D image scaling technologies are quickly earning a reputation as the “gold standard” for the emerging medium, and are rapidly being adopted by broadcasters, production companies, studios and consumer electronics manufacturers.

3ality Digital technology has powered a number of live-action firsts, including U2 3D, the first movie shot completely in digital live-action 3D; the first live 3D broadcast of an NFL game (Raiders vs. Chargers, Dec. 4th, 2008); the first live 3D sports broadcast available to consumers (BCS Championship, Jan. 8th, 2009); the first 3D commercial broadcast on television (Sobe “Lizard Lake”); and the first episode of a scripted television series shot in digital live-action 3D (Chuck vs. The Third Dimension, aired on NBC on Feb. 2, 2009). For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.3alitydigital.com.

About Sky

Sky operates the most comprehensive multichannel, multi-platform television service in the UK and Ireland. Over 9.5 million homes enjoy an unprecedented choice of movies, news, entertainment and sports channels. Sky continues to break new ground with its own portfolio of channels: Sky1 combines its commitment to UK production with the best of the US; Sky Arts continues to embrace new audiences as the UK’s only dedicated arts channel brand; Sky Sports is still raising the bar in sports broadcasting; and Sky News remains a pioneer in multiplatform television news.

Almost 6 million Sky homes now enjoy the control and flexibility of Sky+ and 1.6 million homes have already joined Sky+HD, which provides access to 37 dedicated HD channels. Sky is also the UK’s fastest growing broadband and fixed-telephony provider.

Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America Committed to Making 3D in the Home

Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc. has announced its continued commitment to bring 3D into the homes of consumers. Over the past several years, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics has worked closely with technology and content providers to present consumers with an immersive and compelling 3D experience in the home theater market with Mitsubishi’s leading 3D-ready Home Theater HDTV product line.

“As the home theater market continues to flourish and the cinema space continues to embrace 3D, it is clear that this technology will be the next in-demand feature on home theater products,” said Frank DeMartin, vice president, marketing, at Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America. “3D in the home is becoming an exciting reality and Mitsubishi’s 3D-ready Home Theater TVs will play a key role in allowing consumers to enjoy 3D movies and gaming.”

Mitsubishi’s entire product line of Home Theater TVs feature 3D-ready technology. The company continues to lead the competition with the largest Home Theater HDTV available at 73”. The latest product line includes three 73″ models along with 60” and 65″ sizes – all featuring thinner frames, increased brightness and 3D-ready capability.

Mitsubishi’s 1080p Home Theater TVs provide unparalleled picture quality that far exceeds competitive displays, and deliver an optimal experience to enjoy the new generation of 3D home entertainment. “Consumer demand for 3D-capable HDTVs and content will only increase in 2009 and beyond. The industry can expect Mitsubishi to keep pace with this increased demand while at the same making enhancements to our 3D-ready Home Theater TVs for 2009-2010,” said David Naranjo, director of product development, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America.

About Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc.

Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc., the Official HDTV Sponsor of The PGA TOUR, manufactures and markets a comprehensive line of premium quality 1080p Home Theater TVs and Premium Flat Panel TVs along with the world’s first laser TV: LaserVue™. Recognized as the world leader and innovator of large display high-definition televisions, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America builds products that lead the industry in quality, performance and ease-of-use.

Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America Brings 3D to Life

LAS VEGAS — January 5, 2010 —Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc. (MDEA) will showcase the flexibility and versatility of its 3D-ready TV products by displaying 3D content delivered by various video sources, including Blu-Ray players at CES 2010 in the “Experience 3D Tech Zone”. MDEA has also announced a new 3D adapter which will provide Mitsubishi 3D-ready Home Theater TV owners with an easy and affordable solution to display 3D from a 3D Blu-Ray player. The Mitsubishi 3DC-1000 3D adapter will be available in late spring of 2010. MDEA will be located in CES booth #14548, Central Hall.

“As a pioneer in the 3D television market, Mitsubishi is bridging the gap for consumers to experience this break-through technology,” said Frank DeMartin, vice president of marketing, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America. “3D is definitely a large screen experience, and Mitsubishi offers the most models and largest screen sizes of 3D-ready TVs available today, including one of the world’s largest mass produced 3D-ready TV at 82 inches.”

At CES, MDEA will be rolling in its massive and impressive 53-foot Mobile Marketing Showroom (MMS) into the “Experience 3D Tech Zone”. The MMS will provide a 1000-square-foot showroom showcasing a wide variety of new 3D content displayed on both LaserVue™ and Home Theater TVs. 3D entertainment will be demonstrated on a laser-powered television, using a 65” LaserVue TV and MDEA’s Home Theater TV product line will be displaying cross-platform content on its 60”, 73” and 82” televisions.

MDEA began distribution of 3D-ready TVs in 2007. To help consumers experience and learn more about 3D technology, MDEA has displayed highly interactive retail demonstration kiosks in more than 150 home theater dealers nationwide, enabling consumers to experience 3D as it would perform in a typical home setting. The in-store 3D display is equipped with a Mitsubishi Home Theater TV and media server, as well as stereoscopic glasses and an IR-emitter. Each demo showcases all the products needed to watch 3D movies or play 3D games at home.

“Consumer demand for 3D-capable TVs will continue to rise in 2010 and beyond, and the industry will see Mitsubishi continue to provide solutions for mass consumer adoption,” said David Naranjo, director of product development, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America. “We expect 2010 to be the year that 3D finally achieves mass consumer adoption, and are working to continue to pioneer innovation to make it easier than ever for consumers to experience this next big step in home entertainment.”

About Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc.

Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc., manufactures and markets a comprehensive line of premium quality 1080p Home Theater TVs and Unisen™ Flat Panel TVs along with the world’s first laser TV: LaserVue®. Recognized as the world leader and innovator of large display high-definition televisions, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America builds products that lead the industry in quality, performance and ease-of-use. For additional information about MDEA, visit www.mitsubishi-tv.com.

 In order to display 3D images, Mitsubishi LaserVue® & Home Theater 3D Ready TVs require source devices to support checkerboard format for display of 3D gaming or 3D Blu-ray content. Some 3D Blu-ray players (BDPs) may output a
checkerboard format that is compatible with Mitsubishi 3D Ready TVs. For 3D BDPs that do not output a compatible
checkerboard format, Mitsubishi plans to offer the 3DC-1000 3D adapter. The 3DC-1000 will convert the 3D BDP output to a
3D format that can be displayed by any Mitsubishi 3D Ready TV.

BSkyB Confirms Compatibility with LG, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony ’3D Ready’ TVs

Sky’s 3D TV service to work across the UK’s first range of 3D TVs

BSkyB (Sky) today confirmed that its forthcoming Sky 3D TV service, which is to launch later this year, will be compatible with a wide range of 3D Ready TVs being launched in the UK and Ireland during 2010.

At this week’s CES, LG, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony will all announce an intention to introduce ‘3D Ready’ TVs this year, and Sky’s 3D service will be compatible with all of their respective 3D TV products.

Sky’s existing Sky+HD boxes, which are in 1.6 million UK and Irish homes, are already equipped to receive 3D TV, so customers will only need to upgrade their TV set. The new 3D ready TVs will enable Sky+HD customers to watch both high definition (HD) and 3D services from the same TV set.

After becoming the first UK broadcaster to demonstrate 3D through a domestic TV in December 2008, Sky has since reached a number of further 3D ‘firsts’, such as broadcasting a Keane gig in 3D live over its satellite platform and offering the UK’s first ever live public demonstration of 3D – a performance of Swan Lake by English National Ballet – at the Hay Festival.

Sky has since announced its intention to launch the UK’s first 3D service in 2010. The service will offer a broad selection of the best available 3D programming, expected to include movies, arts, entertainment and sport. The service will be broadcast across Sky’s existing HD infrastructure.

Brian Lenz, Sky’s Director of Product Design & TV Product Development, comments: “Our HD customers already have a 3D capable set-top box, so if they are interested in experiencing TV in a third dimension, the good news is that they’ll have a range of 3D Ready TVs to choose from. This is a great example of Sky and TV manufacturers taking the initiative to ensure there is no confusion over formats. By working together with set manufacturers, we want to provide a hassle free way for consumers to enjoy 3D TV.”

Stephen Gater, Head of Marketing Home Entertainment, LG Electronics UK, adds: “No one can escape the buzz and excitement around 3D. We’re witnessing the start of dramatic change in how we view TV – the dawn of a new dimension. This year will see LG’s first 3D Ready TVs hit the market – and through Sky’s clear commitment to 3D broadcasting, 3D in the home is set to become a reality. Here at LG we’re really looking forward to being a key player in driving the evolution of this technology and giving families a more dramatic, immersive home entertainment experience.”

Andrew Denham, Marketing Director, Panasonic, adds: “Panasonic is delighted to support the introduction of Sky’s 3D TV service in 2010 with a range of compatible FULL HD 3D VIERA Plasma Televisions incorporating high precision active shutter glasses for an unparalleled viewing experience. Plasma technologies have excellent video response which delivers an immersive, movie-theatre-like experience where viewers can feel as if they were part of the action.’’

Rob Shaw, General Manager CTV & HP, adds: “3D TV is a key focus for Samsung and we are committed to the continued delivery of this technology to homes in the UK. Samsung launched its first 3D Plasma TV in 2008 and has continued to innovate and develop this cutting edge technology. In 2010 we will offer 3D ready capability in all our TV screen technologies, including LED, LCD & PDP. Our televisions offer incredible picture quality and choice, and coupled with the forthcoming Sky 3D TV service, Samsung customers can look forward to a truly immersive viewing experience.”

Yoshihisa (Bob) Ishida, President of Home Entertainment Business Group, SVP, Sony Corporation, adds: “We are excited to have Sky’s 3D TV service available for users of 3D compatible BRAVIA LCD TVs in UK and in Ireland. To grow the 3D home entertainment market it’s imperative that the industry offers consumers as much attractive 3D content as possible.”

Sky to launch 3D TV in 2010 following record Sky+HD growth

Sky has announced that the number of customers choosing Sky+HD, the UK’s only high definition (HD) service currently capable of broadcasting 3D services, has increased to 1.313 million following record growth.

Customers have responded in record numbers to Sky’s high quality and great value HD service. Sky has more than doubled the number of HD customers in the last year alone with over 90 customers* an hour joining Sky+HD.

In the next step in the Sky+HD journey, Sky today announced that it will launch the UK’s first 3D channel next year. The channel will offer a broad selection of the best available 3D programming, which is expected to include movies, entertainment and sport. The service will be broadcast across Sky’s existing HD infrastructure and be available via the current generation of Sky+HD
set-top boxes. To watch 3D, customers will also require a new ’3D Ready’ TV, which are expected to be on sale in the UK next year.

This commitment follows extensive research and development activity into 3D, which included Sky becoming the first TV company in Europe to broadcast a live event in 3D TV. On 2nd April 2009 Sky successfully broadcast a performance by Keane live from Abbey Road Studios via the company’s satellite network to a Sky+HD set-top box and domestic 3D Ready TV.

Sky has also confirmed the launch of a comprehensive ‘pull’ video-on-demand (VOD) service next year, to provide Sky+HD customers with additional choice and control to complement Sky+ and the current Sky Anytime ‘push’ VOD service. This new service will use the broadband capability of existing Sky+HD boxes.

Brian Sullivan, Managing Director of Sky’s Customer Group, comments:

“Well over a million homes have future-proofed themselves with Sky+HD, a platform for choice, quality and future innovation. With Sky+ as standard, our customers are already enjoying amazing picture and sound quality on a range of high-quality HD channels which cater to the interests and passions of the whole family.

“Next year we will make our HD boxes work even harder for customers by launching Europe’s first 3D TV channel, as well as introducing a comprehensive video-on-demand service to complement Sky+ and the current Sky Anytime service.

“3D is a genuinely ‘seeing is believing’ experience, making TV come to life as never before. Just like the launch of digital, Sky+ and HD, this is latest step in our commitment to innovating for customers.”

Sky launched the UK’s first national HD service in May 2006 which has since become Europe’s most successful HD service. Today Sky+HD customers can watch 33 HD channels from leading brands such as Sky Movies, Sky Sports, Channel 4, Disney, MTV, BBC, Discovery, FX, Sky1 and National Geographic. Sky+HD customers can choose up to 400 hours a day – or 13,000 hours a month – of quality HD content, which is significantly more than any other TV platform.

Further channels are due shortly, including ESPN HD (August 2009), and Sky News HD (Spring 2010), with a view to growing the offering to 50 channels over time.

Further details on Sky’s pull VOD and 3DTV services, including pricing, packaging and entitlement, will be announced closer to launch.

* On average in the year to end June 2009

Sky+HD:
Sky reported today that in the fourth quarter of 2008/9, it added 291,000 Sky+HD customers, to reach over 1.3 million – more than double the number just a year ago. This means that 14% of Sky’s customer base now chooses Sky+HD (up from 6% last year).

About Sky:
Sky is the UK’s leading entertainment and communications company, operating the most comprehensive multi-channel television service. Over 9.4 million homes – a third of households across the UK and Ireland – enjoy the very best entertainment, movies, news and sports channels. In delivering entertainment through the TV, PC and mobile, customers have more control and flexibility over what, how and when they watch. Almost 5.5 million customers now choose Sky+, Sky’s digital video recorder, to record and store their favourite programmes and 1.3 million enjoy the unprecedented picture and sound quality of Sky+HD, which offers 33 dedicated HD channels. Sky is also the UK’s fastest growing broadband and fixed-telephony provider with over 2.2 million customers taking Sky Broadband and over 1.8 million customers taking Sky Talk.

About Sky 3D TV:
There will be no need for customers to upgrade their set-top boxes to access to the new 3D channel, as all existing Sky+HD boxes are already ‘3D Ready’. However, customers will need a new 3D Ready TV, which are expected to be on sale in the UK during 2010. More details on the channel, including timing, pricing and packaging will be provided in due course.

What has Sky captured in 3D?
On Thursday 2 April Sky successfully broadcast the UK’s first live event in 3D TV to a domestic 3D TV set, via its satellite network and existing Sky+HD set-top boxes. Using polarisation technology, this was the first time an event had ever been broadcast live to a domestic TV screen in the UK.

Other events recorded in 3D include:

• Usain Bolt, sprinting 150 metres down a specially designed track on Manchester’s Deansgate during the Bupa Great City Games (17 May 2009)
• Swan Lake, a special performance by English National Ballet to capture the UK’s first ballet for 3D TV (9 April 2009)
• England vs. New Zealand Rugby Union Test Match (29th November)
• Sky1’s Gladiators (December 2008)
• Liverpool FC vs Marseille UEFA Champions League (26th November 2008)
• Ricky Hatton vs. Juan Lazcano (12th March 2008)

3D explained
The human eye’s ability to see things with variable depth and wide perspective is based on how the brain processes two separate images, as received by each eye. When someone looks at something the brain is able to merge two separate images together to create a field of vision which is both three-dimensional and allows the viewer to focus on specific areas within any given scene.

The jump from 2D to 3D
TV has traditionally only been able to deliver a single image to a television screen. For all the innovation that we’ve seen in TV (including the move to colour, the migration to digital, and more recently, the launch of high definition services), all of these developments have only been able to work within the parameters of a single incoming TV feed – a 2D experience.

So even though HD delivers an intensity and richness which results in exceptional clarity and detail, it is still based on the same underlying picture delivery mechanism as previous TV formats.

3D TV is possible because of a series of major breakthroughs (principally in camera, post-production, encoding, set-top box and TV set technology) which means that domestic TVs are now capable of processing an image in a way that can deliver the depth information to the brain – much like the human eye – and hence add a further dimension to HD.

For the first time, two images can now be merged and played out simultaneously on the same domestic TV display. Polarising glasses are currently used to help direct the correct left or right full colour on-screen image to the corresponding eye. The brain then processes each feed to create a single image, providing a level of depth and focus which means that the content is able to move to and from the foreground and therefore becomes three-dimensional.

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