One of the recurring conclusions throughout several of panels during the first day of the 3D Creative Summit was that 4K/Ultra HD technology is not a threat to 3D and Chris Johns, Chief Engineer at Sky, echoed that it could be what 3D needs: “If and when they [4K TVs] come out later this year, it could mean full resolution 3D so I don’t believe 3D is dead. I think it’s a revolution and we are the start of a curve.” He even stated, “ Sky 3D viewers are increasing and that they are looking to diversify their 3D genres.”
BBC has been broadcasting 3D programming across a range of genres including Strictly Come Dancing, Mr Stink and Walking with Dinosaurs. The trial will end this summer. BBC was very excited when they started the trial but that each time a 3D show was broadcast, the ‘spike’ got lower, despite the growth in potential audiences. But unlike BBC’s experience, 3D audiences at Sky are rising. Johns continues: “3D is definitely not ramping back at sky. Subscriptions continue to increase. In April we are opening it wider so if you are now a movie subscriber you get to watch the 3D version and likewise with sports. This is another push to get up the viewing figures up.”
Sky will launch a £31.50/month basic-tier HD and 3D TV pack on April 1st called Entertainment Extra. Subscribers will be able to access non sports and movie 3D shows via Sky On Demand.
This marks the first time 3D content will be regularly available to those who do not subscribe to the top tier package.
Source: 3dfocus.uk
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