The big AV buzzword following this year's CES was 3D TV, with numerous manufacturers demoing 3D-ready screens. And on the broadcasting front, Sky has been a leading proponent, already having claimed that we will be watching the 2012 London Olympics in 3D.
But with recent developments it seems we may be getting 3D Sky as soon as the end of this year.
Chris Johns, Sky's chief engineer of broadcast strategy, has announced that the company is significantly upping its investment in the technology and could offer 3D viewing within 12 months.
'We have the luxury to be able to test and trial 3D', with, 'capability for homes to see 3D by year-end', he commented to a Digital Television Group conference.
Sky is already filming sporting events in 3D in an effort to build its back catalogue, with more general entertainment programming expected to follow suit soon. 'Our aim is to refine 3D techniques and TV production and build a content library over the coming year'.
Sky is aware that its service will have to conform to current restrictions in the technology, which means viewers having compatible equipment and needing to wear special glasses to utilise the technology.
'Sky is in a unique position,' commented Johns. 'We want to deliver the first generation of 3D and I envision it will be glasses-based in some form, and to get the impetus going for the first generation and to be read for other generations which will happen in five, six or seven years time'.
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