3D channel closures outpace launches
April 15, 2014
By Chris Forrester
A report from IHS Technology says that there are now more 3D channel closures than launches. The most recent was with Nordic satellite operator Viasat closing its 3D channel in January 2014. In addition High TV 3D is no longer transmitted from Astra’s 23.5 deg East orbital position.
The IHS criteria omit demo or trial 3D channels, or channels that are only showing a 3D programming block, or VoD services.
3D TV transmissions first appeared in 2010, and 19 channels were launched that year, states IHS. “At a worldwide level growth in 3D channels began to ease in 2012. In 2013 closures outpaced launches.” Some 17 out of the 26 active 3D channels are available on DTH, while cable and IPTV offer only 4 each, although Sky Deutschland’s 3D is also available on cable and IPTV.
Pay-TV broadcasters now account for 88 per cent of active 3D channels. IHS specifically mentions BSkyB which “holds important rights to movies and sports content” in 3D. It is also clear that the complete ‘family’ of Sky channels (BSkyB, Sky Italia and Sky Deutschland) are not just happy with their 3D efforts but continue to positively support the format.