Sky 3D channel
3D Television employs some technique of 3D presentation, such as stereoscopic capture, multi-view capture, or 2D plus depth, and a 3D display – a special viewing device to project a television program into a realistic three-dimensional field. On 2010, television stations are started to air 3D programmes using the same technology as 3D movies, like in James Camerons Avatar. The world’s first 3D channel started broadcasting nationwide in South Korea by Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting.
Sky TV UK announced that they will be launching a Sky 3D channel in 2010. This will bring content such as sport, entertainment events, and other three-dimensional programming to its subscribers.
The Sky 3DTV system will require a special 3D ready television, Sky+HD PVR box and the special 3D TV shutter glasses, required for the 3D TV experience.
Sky 3DTV Channel
Although various tests 3D screenings have taken place in recent years, it was in January 2010 that Sky TV UK announced the start of their 3D programming.
Their first 3D TV programme was a UK Premier League football match, between Arsenal and Manchester United on Sunday 31st January 2010. This first 3D TV showing will take place at nine specially selected – and secret pubs in – London, Manchester, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Dublin.
Eight specially engineered 3D camera rigs will house sixteen of Sky’s high definition cameras, to provide multi-angle stereoscopic coverage. A purpose-built 3D outside broadcast truck will enable live mixing between shots, slow motion replays and the inclusion of 3D graphics. A dedicated commentary team will also support the 3D transmission.
From April, Sky will screen at least one 3D Premier League match in hundreds of pubs across the country in an attempt to drum up public enthusiasm before launching a dedicated 3D channel beamed into homes in the autumn.
The Sky HD box will be compatible with Skys 3D TV Service, and all users will need is a 3D TV.
Sky 3D launched on 3 April 2010 with the Manchester United vs Chelsea football match being broadcast in over a thousand pubs across the UK and Ireland in 3D.
On 1 October 2010, Sky 3D became available to residential subscribers.
Sky 3D will be compatible with the 3D ready TVs being launched in the UK from major manufacturers such as LG, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony.
3D ready TVs come in two different formats – Active and Passive. Sky 3D works with both. You’ll need to wear glasses with both types. All the major TV manufacturers are launching both Active and Passive models so check them both out and choose the one that works best for you.
The first 3D TVs and 3D glasses should be available to buy in the UK from Spring this year, with more arriving in Autumn 2010.
The Sky 3D channel will offer a selection of the best available 3D programmes including live Sky Sports and Sky Movies in 3D. Live 3D sports on Sky 3D include LIVE Premier League Football in 3D
Quote from the Sky 3D website:
“Skys 3D channel will be available to Sky+HD customers on Sky World with HD pack, and who have a new 3D-ready TV from 3 April. Customers who meet these requirements should call Sky on 08442 410 092 to request access.”
Sky 3D Frequently Asked Questions
Sky 3D is available on Sky channel 170
Sky 3D is available to Sky customers with the Family bundle – currently (January 2016) £36 per month.
In 2015 Sky removed its Sky 3D channel from it’s satellite TV line up.
Sky 3D is now only available via Sky On Demand by connecting your Sky+HD digibox to the internet