Consumers buying 3D TVs – but challenges loom
May 28, 2010
Worldwide shipments of 3D TVs introduced to the market for the first time in March are expected to reach 4.2 million units in 2010, thanks to increasing traction and acceptance from enthusiastic early adopters. Global 3D TV shipments will then triple to 12.9 million units in 2011 and then more than double to 27.4 million units in 2012.
In 2015, 3D TV shipments will reach 78.1 million units rising at a vigorous Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 80.2 per cent from 2010, says iSuppli.
However, 3D glasses are proving to be a big concern. 3D glasses are among the most common 3D TV bundles preferred by consumers, aside from 3D Blu-ray players and 3D Blu-ray movies. While television manufacturers might throw in one or even two pairs of 3D glasses to sweeten a 3D TV purchase, additional glasses to accommodate more viewers – either other family members or guests to share the 3D viewing experience – could be expensive. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that 3D glasses will be interoperable among brands – so 3D eyewear bundled or purchased with a particular TV won't necessarily work with another.
Meanwhile, Panasonic says it expects to sell around 1 million 3D TV sets this year.