Telly addicts
Sky has confirmed that over 70,000 people have signed up for its 3D package, perhaps proving that the three dimensional technology is finally taking off in living rooms.
Sky launched its 3D offering in October, including Europe's first 3D channel, three dimensional sports coverage and a handful of 3D films.
"3D has got off to a great start with around 70,000 customers having signed up to the service in the first few months. We are very happy with the progress of 3D to date and are really encouraged by the feedback we are getting from customers," said Sky's chief exec, Jeremy Darroch.
A recent report by PwC describing the 3D market as ‘extremely profitable' predicted that 3D TVs will become more common, especially in the lead-up to big sporting events like the 2012 Olympic games.
Phil Stokes, head of media and entertainment at PwC said: "The market for 3D televisions is less developed than that of the film industry and the affordability of TV sets is a major factor impacting the growth of the sector. However, prices are beginning to fall and that, together with the availability of attractive 3D content, is helping to grow the market."
Another recent report by In-Stat predicted that 1 in 5 TVs bought in 2013 will be 3D- compatible.
John Cassy, Sky 3D's channel director, said that around half of all 3D TVs sold in the UK are connected to Sky 3D and thousands of people are apparently joining every week.
"The hugely positive response from customers, all of whom are tuning into Sky 3D on a weekly basis, gives us great confidence for the future," he added.
So far, Sky 3D has shown TV premieres of Avatar, Alice in Wonderland and the Toy Story trilogy and will shortly broadcast its 100th live sports game in 3D.
"We are also continuing to increase the breadth of our 3D programming, including performances by Diversity, natural history documentaries from Sir David Attenborough, and another world first, an upcoming broadcast of ENO's new production of Donizetti's Lucrezia Borgia," said Cassy.
Virgin Media had pipped Sky to the launch of a 3D service but has not disclosed any subscription figures yet, although it seems the 3D space is now the new battle ground for the 2 rivals.
