Report: 50 Million 3DTV Shipments by 2015

By : Erik Gruenwedel | Posted: 06 Oct 2010
egruenwedel@questex.com

The worldwide 3DTV market is projected to surge by 2013 resulting in unit shipments approaching 50 million by 2015, according to a new report.

ABI Research in Scottsdale, Ariz., said ongoing popularity of 3D movies in the theaters coupled with increased 3D Blu-ray title selections and consumers in the market for a new TV will drive growth. The 3D format is seen as the next step in packaged media and a driver for the continued rollout of Blu-ray technology, including as a conduit for Web-based content.

“The 3D TV market is moving faster than expected,” said ABI analyst Michael Inouye. “There was widespread skepticism that production models would be available so quickly. But by June this year, many TV manufacturers had 3D models in their lineups. Most 3D TVs will be Internet-connected.”

The report cautions that 3D programming ultimately will be selective as the theatrical 3D experience doesn’t always translate well to the smaller screen. Specifically, Inouye said, some sports programming featuring wide fields and big stadiums don’t lend themselves to 3D. The analyst said video games in 3D make “a lot of sense,” considering the huge installed base of game consoles and that both the Xbox 360 and the PS3 are capable of supporting 3D content – the latter also supporting 3D Blu-ray.

Other challenges include that premium prices are attached to 3DTVs, Blu-ray player compatibility and that active infrared glasses required for most 3D technology can vary by TV manufacturer.

“Everything looks good in HD, but not everything looks better in 3D,” said analyst Jason Blackwell said. “Content producers should be selective about what titles they assign to 3D production release.”

http://www.homemediamagazine.com/3-d/report-50-million-3dtv-shipments-2015-20787