Sony, which owns the exclusive 3D rights to the 210 World Cup football, has announced that it will open up public viewing venues in a number of countries including Germany and the UK.
In Germany, the World Cup rights are divided between ARD and RTL and for both broadcasters 3D is not an issue. They will therefore just bring the games in HD quality to the viewers. The same applies to the UK, where the BBC and ITV hold the rights and – at least for the moment – there is no 3D broadcasting outlet.
Instead of watching on television, fans will have to buy tickets to watch the games in one of the yet-to-be-confirmed cinemas or other public venues. For the UK, 50 venues are planned. In Germany, Berlin will be among the places with a 3D public viewing venue.
After the games, Sony and Fifa plan a special Bluray release in 3D, the 3D Fifa World Cup Film.