Sky to Launch 3D TV Services in the U.K. & Ireland

LONDON/BURBANK: BSkyB and 3ality Digital are teaming up to launch the first 3D TV services in the U.K. and Ireland, to be available via the current Sky+HD set-top boxes, which 1.6 million homes are already equipped with. 

Sky’s 3D TV services, set to launch this year, will use 3ality Digital’s state-of-the-art camera rigs and image processors to capture much of the programming it plans to broadcast. The programming will then be broadcast across Sky’s existing HD infrastructure. To watch 3D content, Sky+HD customers will need to upgrade to a 3D-enabled TV set, a wide range of which will begin to be retailed this year.

"The launch of Sky’s 3D TV services this year will mark a milestone in British broadcasting, giving customers a whole new dimension to their TV viewing experience," said Brian Lenz, Sky’s director of product design and TV product development. "Utilizing 3ality Digital’s technology and equipment will be a key component in providing our customers with a cutting-edge entertainment experience."

"Sky is leading the way in its commitment to offering the next generation of television," commented Steve Schklair, the CEO of 3ality Digital Systems, the technology and production arm of 3ality Digital. "The success of its 3D broadcasting initiative is critical to the industry. We are proud that Sky has selected 3ality Digital as the camera and image processing systems supporting its launch."

"We’re proud to collaborate with Sky as the company works to deliver on its commitment to pioneer 3D broadcasting," added 3ality Digital’s CEO, Sandy Climan. "Our state-of-the-art automation processes and the full metadata capture built into our camera platforms will ensure Sky 3D programming is compelling, immersive and dynamic."