Chris Johns, chief engineer at Sky, presented an overview of Sky 3D, which launched April 3 to over 1000 pubs in the UK.
–The satellite channel, which can be received using Sky’s currently available set top box and a 3D TV, will have its residential launch in the Fall. Johns suggested that this would be “appointment TV” as there is currently not enough content for 24/7. When 3D programming is not on the air, a 3D demo reel will be in rotation during most of the day.
–Demos will be presented in stores
–Initially Sky 3D is free to top tier Sky subscribers
–Johns cautioned that he’s had quotes up to 200 GBP for a pair of active shuttle glasses. “10 pairs of glasses for your friends costs more that the TV,” he said, adding that this could hurt the rollout.
–Sky will broadcast at least one Premiere League event per week.
–http://introducingsky3D.sky.com

The presentation was part of a panel that explored the multiple distribution channels for 3D to the home.

Commenting on the broadcast side, ATSC president Mark S. Richer stated: Broadcast bandwidth is limited. The future of broadcasting is wireless, and it must be leveraged. So if there is talk of broadcast 3D, it should be considered in this context.
He suggested 3D TV should deliver to mobile and handheld devices, in real time and nonreal time, aimed at personal size screens.

Dolby’s Pat Griffis moderated the panel. Additional speakers included Tony Jasionowski, senior group manager (packaged media) at Panasonic; David Broberg, vp consumer video technology, at CableLabs; and Jim Taylor, senior vp and chief technologist, Sonic Solutions.