French premium TV broadcaster Canal+ is preparing the launch of a dedicated 3D channel later this year, according to a report in La Tribune.
“We are already experimenting with shooting in 3D and are working on developing the technical chain,” said a spokesperson for Canal +. Some trials have already taken place with taping sports events in the new technology. Talks are also under way with a number of TV set manufacturers. The broadcaster has been working on 3D for the past year.
The announcement comes at a time, when 3D is one of the hot topics at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. In the US, five 3D channels have been announced by DISH Network, ESPN and Discovery. In Europe, BSkyB is at the forefront of 3D development, so Canal+ could not be left behind.
The move could wrong foot Canal’s pay-TV rival Orange. Last April the France Telecom-owned operation covered a OL (Olympique Lyonnais) and PSG (Paris Saint-Germain) Ligue 1 football match in the 3D format. It has previously run 3D demonstrations of French Open tennis.
