3D TV tracking ahead of HD

Japanese technology giant Panasonic has claimed that 3D TV is already tracking ahead of HD TV sets when it comes to comparable unit sales at this point in the tech’s lifespan.

"Within North America, the industry shipped some 2million Full HD 3D enabled televisions after just nine months on the market," chief technology officer Eisuke Tsuyuzaki told TechRadar.

"This is a significant milestone. It means we have already surpassed what I call the laserdisc threshold. We have already taken 3D from geekdom to an early mass market.

"Compare this to the rollout of HD TV. The industry sold less than half a million HD sets in five years. Consumers who have purchased home Full HD 3D are not just the early and affluent videophiles, but also young gamers and (surprisingly) young families.

"In our research we know that an equal number of male and females are actively involved in the purchase decision. 3D has to cater to all genders and demographics."

The exec also claims that the 3D moving is already addressing the content issues that slowed the initial growth of HD display sales.

"Many of the big 3D Hollywood movies you’ve seen in theatres are now coming to PPV and VOD services, in addition to WWE (wrestling) and adult content," he added.

"It’s similar to those early HD TV offerings, but at a much faster rollout. With 3D now a feature on affordable video camcorders and digital still cameras, as well as video games and YouTube, the format will stop being just an added entertainment value and become an integral part of our social lives."