The Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) has finalised its specification for the use of 3D, opting for ‘Full HD 3D’, and marrying its proposal with recommendations for a broadcast standard.
The format is the same as that recently recommended as a broadcast standard by ZetaCast in its report for the UK regulator Ofcom. The backwards compatibility means that it is possible to purchase a 3D title now, even if an affordable 3DTV display is still a little way off. However, the system differs from Sky’s own 3D HD proposals that will use the existing fleet of Sky+ HD receivers with the side-by-side format that effectively halves the current HD resolution.
“Throughout this year, movie goers have shown an overwhelming preference for 3D when presented with the option to see a theatrical release in either 3D or 2D,” said Victor Matsuda, chairman, BDA Global Promotions Committee. “We believe this demand for 3D content will carry over into the home now that we have, in Blu-ray Disc, a medium that can deliver a quality Full HD 3D experience to the living room.”
Blu-ray 3D will offer full 1080p resolution to each eye, maintaining the picture quality established with HD; it will be able to display on any 3D display regardless of the technology behind it.
Consultants Futuresource said it expected an upsurge in the adoption of high definition and Blu-ray during 2010, strengthened by a clearly defined 3D roadmap.
“Following the success of 3D in the cinema there is a major industry push to establish 3D in the home,” says Jim Bottoms, Director, Futuresource, “and today’s announcement by the BDA ensures a unified route forward. The quality and experience of high definition via Blu-ray disc is unparalleled, and for those consumers not yet convinced by the HD experience, 3D will be another key selling point and a highly persuasive reason to upgrade. Our research shows that 3D-enabled BD players will be available in Q2 next year to support the major push on 3D TVs that will start at CES and build throughout the year. Further interest will be driven by owners of PS3 consoles, which will be able to play ‘Blu-ray 3D’ content.”
According to Futuresource, falling prices have kept the consumer’s interest in 3D, despite recessionary pressures.
