DirecTV will be the first multichannel video program distributor (MVPD) to sign on to carry 3net, the 3-D channel from Sony, Discovery Communications and Imax.
DirecTV will begin broadcasting the channel on Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. EST.
Consumer desire for 3-D TVs has been tepid so far, as measured by sales figures for 3-D TVs thus far. Except in Germany. For some reason, 3-D has been reported to be more popular in Germany than elsewhere.
The companies involved in today’s announcement are clearly hoping the arrival of another channel with 24-hour-a-day 3-D will increase interest.
“3net will deliver compelling, native 3-D content to the marketplace and thus serve as a critical driver for consumer adoption of in-home 3-D entertainment,” according to the group.
“The broad availability of high-quality, native 3-D content is a critical step toward consumers fully embracing 3-D,” said Rob Wiesenthal, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Sony Corp. of America. “3net is an important element in our strategy to maintain a leadership position in all things 3-D.”