ESPN Preps 3D Network

BRISTOL: ESPN has announced plans to launch the industry’s first 3D television network in June in time for the World Cup opening match between South Africa and Mexico on June 11.

ESPN 3D promises at least 85 live sporting events in the first year, including up to 25 World Cup matches, the Summer X Games, college basketball and college football. The sports broadcasting giant has been testing the technology for the last two years. George Bodenheimer, the co-chairman of Disney Media Networks and president of ESPN and ABC Sports, commented: ”ESPN’s commitment to 3D is a win for fans and our business partners. ESPN 3D marries great content with new technology to enhance the fan’s viewing experience and puts ESPN at the forefront of the next big advance for TV viewing.” 

Sean Bratches, executive VP of sales and marketing, added: “This will be a meaningful step to drive adoption of 3D television sets and afford opportunities for our affiliates to create value through new product offerings, and our advertisers, who want fresh sponsorship opportunities."