Press release

3D experience delivered through Sky's existing Sky+ HD infrastructure

Sky’s research and development team has successfully demonstrated 3D TV at its West London HQ, becoming the first UK broadcaster to deliver a 3D TV experience into the home.  

The content was delivered using Sky’s digital satellite broadcast platform and playback, via a ‘3D Ready’ TV, was direct from the hard drive of a standard Sky+HD set-top box.   All content was filmed, produced and edited by Sky’s in-house team using Sky’s dedicated 3D TV cameras and rigs.  

A technological demonstration of Sky’s ability to satisfy any future demand for 3D services, the content included England vs New Zealand Rugby Union Test Match, Liverpool FC vs Marseille UEFA Champions League, Sky1’s Gladiators, and Ricky Hatton vs Juan Lazcano.  

Sky is currently working with others in the wider TV industry (including TV manufacturers and studios) to help establish the potential for commercial 3D TV services.  

Gerry O’Sullivan, Sky’s Director of Strategic Product Development, comments:  

“Today’s breakthrough is the latest in a long line of Sky firsts since our launch 20 years ago, including the UK’s first digital TV service, the ground-breaking Sky+ and the introduction of HD.  Our R&D activity is all about anticipating customers’ future demands, including the potential to turn HD into 3D.  

“With another first today, we’ve demonstrated that it’s now possible to offer a ”seeing-is-believing” 3D TV experience in the home.  And thanks to our high-capacity satellite network and HD boxes, we have shown that Sky+HD is already ‘3D Ready’.”

For an illustration of the 3D TV process, click here.

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