IBC 2007 (Stand 1.181, 4.254, 10.360)
Eventis will be demonstrating 3D video-on-demand (VOD) at its IBC booth this year, using the Philips 3D (’2D-plus-depth’) LCD screens. Using eventIS metadata management system, according to the programme delivery software vendor, this proves that the new 3D video format can easily be integrated into existing media distribution and management systems such as VOD via cable, satellite, Internet or terrestrial broadcasting. So 3D VOD can become a commercial reality within a few years.
“Easy distribution of any 3D content over existing infrastructures will be a key success factor for 3D-TV”, said Jos Swillens, CEO of Philips 3D Solutions. He added that: “The 3D format known as ’2D-plus-depth’, is now standardized in MPEG and offers the flexibility to deliver a high-quality 3D viewing experience with minimal bandwidth requirements”.
At IFA last week senior Philips executives expressed their belief that its 3D screens and services could be in homes within five years. Judging by the few demonstrations of Philips current line of 3D screens I have witnessed, these are not yet ready for home use, being optimized for viewing from a specific distance, as required in public display applications.
Philips is promoting its ‘no-glasses’ passive 3D technoloy, however. Mitsubishi recently announced it will launch its 3D capable blu-ray players and accompanying DLP and LCD screens to American homes some time in 2008. They will use shutter glasses as passive 3D is prone to cause headaches more easily. And from the demonstrations of both Philips and LG 3D LCD screens I can say I am personally quite sensitive to this effect. But will the required use of shutter glasses halt 3D penetration at the early adopter market…
The latest Philips 132 inch multi-screen 3D WOWzone will be on show at the company’s stand in hall 10.
"In an industry that experiences rapid change and often a confusing subsequent
constant supply of news, it is often refreshing to read an insightful perspective. Broadband
TV News and its editorial team regularly provide a context and
helpful analysis to breaking news.”
Broadband TV News is the must-read publication for those working in the Business of the Multiscreen Television. We deliver news, insight and data direct to your desktop. As well as our constantly updated website you can sign-up to our Daily and Weekly email bulletins. 
Connected TV Forecasts NEW REPORT. The number of TV sets connected to the Internet will reach 551 million by 2016 for the 40 countries covered in this report from Digital TV Research, up from 124 million at end-2010. The report states that this translates to 20% of global TV sets by 2016, up from only 6% at end-2010. Published in November 2011, this 83-page PDF report is the most geographically comprehensive to ever be published.