What you'll watch
High-def 3D movies
3D Blu-ray movies are the highest-quality video content, and they'll deliver the vivid dimensionality and picture depth you'd expect from a 3D movie in a theater. 3D Blu-ray titles should begin to appear by this summer.
3D TV programming
A few networks plan to launch 3D channels later this year, so the pipeline for 3D content is already being laid. DIRECTV® recently introduced a trio of 3D channels, including ESPN® 3D, and even offers 3D content on demand.
3D gaming
Some video game titles will also be available in 3D. Sony has announced two updates for the PlayStation® 3 this summer that will allow the console to play 3D games as well as 3D Blu-ray Discs™.
2D content in 3D
Most 3D TVs will have special video processing built in to convert standard 2D video into 3D. The effect won't be as compelling as true 3D, but you'll see a noticeable difference from regular 2D, and it's a great way to watch more shows and movies in 3D.
The technology behind 3D TV
You need to wear special 3D glasses to see the three-dimensional effect. These liquid-crystal "active" glasses alternately darken the left or right lens in sync with the TV, so that only your right eye sees the right image and only your left eye sees the left image.
Your brain combines these two images into one seamless whole, just like it does every day with the slightly different views you get with your right and left eyes.
The TV uses an "emitter" to perfectly coordinate the interaction of the glasses and TV screen. And voilà – you're seeing a 3D picture.
Our article about 3D TV details what you'll need to get 3D at home, and explains today's 3D technology.
Get more information
Commonly asked questions
- Do all manufacturers use the same 3D technology?
- What's the resolution of 3D video?
- How is 3D TV different from 3D at the movies?
- Find the answers to these questions and others in our 3D TV FAQ
Learn more
- Our article about 3D TV details what you'll need to get 3D at home, and explains today's 3D technology.
- Our video about 3D TV takes a look at the latest technology and offers a peek at a 3D TV.
- Check out our Research articles and videos on 3DTV.