French cable network Numericable has officially launched a dedicated 3D channel. Ma Chaîne 3D will be available in over eight million households and will include coverage of the WBA heavyweight boxing fight on November 13 between David Haye and Audley Harrison, which is being shown as a simulcast with Ma Chaîne Sport.
Ma Chaîne 3D was initially launched as a pilot last September. As a full blown channel it will include films, animation, documentaries and sport, both free and on pay-per-view. Prices range from €0.99 for short films to €6.99 for movie titles.
More than 20 titles will be available at launch and the cableco anticipates being able to carry additional content on a weekly basis. It already has over 40 titles in its library.
The channel will be receivable on Numericable’s installed base of 3D decoders. Transmissions, which require an image resolution greater than 50 megapixels, will be at between 11 Mbps and 16 Mbps.
A special 3D pack, including a pair of €150 3D glasses, is being offered as an incentive to new subscribers. Its high street stores are being kitted out with the latest Panasonic screens to lure in audiences.
By Julian Clover
source: http://www.broadbandtvnews.com/2010/11/08/numericable-launches-3d-on-demand/