Growth in the 3D TV market will start to accelerate in 2013, and global shipments of 3D TV sets will approach 50 million in 2015, according to ABI Research.
Growth in the 3D TV market will start to accelerate in 2013, and global shipments of 3D TV sets will approach 50 million in 2015, according to ABI Research.
“The 3D TV market is moving faster than expected,” said ABI analyst Michael Inouye. “There was widespread scepticism that production models would be available so quickly. But by June this year many TV manufacturers had 3D models in their line-ups. Most 3D TVs will be Internet-connected.”
The popularity of 3D movies has been a primary driver. despite a comparative lack of titles and the view that the 3D movie experience doesn’t always translate well to the smaller screen.
“Some sports programming is also problematical: wide fields and big stadiums just don’t lend themselves to 3D,” according to Inouye.
Another inhibitor is expense, adds digital home practice director Jason Blackwell. “Not only do 3D TVs command high prices, but the active infrared glasses needed for the most common 3D technology can cost $150 a pair, and glasses from different manufacturers are incompatible.”
