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The Business of Professional 3D Video
Closing the loop between 3D video production and 3D video viewing has historically been arduous and expensive, catching the market in a predicament where the fundamental questions were difficult to answer – until today:
Q: Is there enough high-quality 3D content available to propel a technology boom?
A: Absolutely. From large commercial movie studios making millions upon millions in summer blockbusters, to independent studios, to anyone with a 3D video camera, there is a massive amount of 3D video being created. The question becomes, ‘How do I get my content everywhere?’
Q: Is the available technology advanced enough to create a compelling 3D experience?
A: Yes. With game-changing films such as Avatar, the waters have been successfully tested. It has been demonstrated how a rich 3D experience can enhance storytelling and drive huge box-office sales.
Q: Who can afford the proper 3D equipment in an embattled economic climate when HD just became mainstream?
A: Like any technology, with maturation comes a drop in price point. While top-of-the-line 3D video cameras are readily available, so are inexpensive devices at your local retailer. Even smart phones and tablets are becoming 3D enabled, with the ability to shoot and view 3D video. Major hardware manufacturers have already delivered mainstream technology to the market at low price points, breaking the barriers to entry.
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Users only need a 3D-enabled device and 3D glasses if required. The next step is identifying a ‘future-proof’ 3D platform for monetisation, and customer-facing functionality, ensuring that the following key functions are addressed:
• Cloud-based video upload, ingestion, transcoding and storing.
• Cloud-based 3D frame packing and management.
• Digital Rights Management.
• Bandwidth detection and adaptive bit-rate streaming.
• Custom CMS and web portal support.
• Video on demand and eCommerce functionality.
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