Discovery and ESPN Set to Launch 3D TV Channels

One of the first major tech breakthroughs of the new decade will see television channels being offered in 3D.

Discovery Communications recently announced a joint venture with Sony and IMAX to provide 3D viewing service to millions of people across the United States. The announcement came ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, where sources have been buzzing about a 3D feel to the event.

While details are still forthcoming, the channel will provide 24-hour content filled with movies, nature programs and other material that will lend itself to 3D viewing. (Source: networkworld.com)

Sports to be Broadcast in 3D

On a separate note, ESPN is looking to make a big splash with sports fans by offering live events in 3D. To accentuate the magnitude of the new television viewing experience, the first broadcast is slated for June 11, the date that the 2010 FIFA World Cup is to set to start. Soccer is the most popular sport across the world, and its reputation in America continues to grow by leaps and bounds each year.

While the 3D channels will offer couch potatoes a truly unique viewing experience, the underlying factor for those offering the service is money. Many electronics makers are looking for 3D television to encourage consumers to upgrade to new televisions.

Too Soon for HDTV Owners?

Some analysts are critical of the service, stating that most would-be consumers will be reluctant to pitch their still-new HDTVs in favor of a 3D-ready set.

Still, the industry is acting confident that the viewing experience will be impressive enough to get people on board. "It is clear to us that consumers will always migrate to a better and richer entertainment experience," Sony Chairman and CEO Howard Stringer said in a statement announcing the Discovery service. (Source: computerworld.com)

The Discovery service will launch initially in the U.S., but the companies said they will explore taking it overseas. They didn't provide a launch date in their statement, but reports said the service will begin in 2011.