100 3D TV Channels By 2014, Study Says

There will be more than 100 3D TV channels by 2014, predicts a new report from research firm In-Stat.

3D channels launched in North America, Europe, and Asia during 2010. The largest number of 3D channels is currently available in Europe, where the number of pay-TV providers play a role.

In-Stat expects more 3D TV channels to launch in 2011.

The firm also noted that 3D content is being made widely available on pay-TV providers VOD systems. Those who are experimenting with 3D VOD now are expected to make linear 3D channels available as well, according to In-Stat.

“Pay-TV providers around the globe who have HD systems in place have jumped on the 3D content being made available to them at a faster rate than many had expected,” said Michelle Abraham, principal analyst. “Many took advantage of the World Cup 3D coverage to test transmission of 3D over their networks, and some of them have now launched transmission of regular 3D TV channels. The competitive nature of pay-TV ensures that once one pay-TV distributor in a country is offering 3D, the others need to be fast followers unless they want to lose their top-tier customers.”

The new research also suggests that 3D live event coverage will grow in 2011 though challenges remain; sports, movie, documentary and music channels are most likely to move to 3D first; and as the costs to reproduce in 3D declines over time, 3D content production will grow more quickly.