Is 3-D HDTV the Next Big Thing?

It seems as if 3D television may be the “next best thing.” Or, at least it looks like several companies within the HDTV industry are hoping it will be. In fact, many within the industry are hoping that 3-D technology will help revitalize the entertainment industry in general by helping to make audiences more engaged.

In February, Samsung announced that it would be launching a 50” 3D plasma HDTV with a price tag of around $4,000. In order to use this technology, you will need to use special software and goggles that will attach to your computer. This system is also designed to allow for playing video games in 3D.

Earlier this month, Mitsubishi announced that it will be releasing televisions equipped with 3-D technology later this year. Mitsubishi has also announced its plans to launch a 3-D Blu-ray disc player sometimes this year. Some movies, such as Beowulf, have aleady become available in 3-D. In addition, Disney’s Pixar has also announced that it will be releasing some of its animated Blu-ray movies in 3-D.

Sports are also getting involved in the 3-D action. The Dallas Mavericks, for example, had a 3-D presentation of their game against the Los Angeles Clippers earlier this year. The game was shown in a Dallas movie theater and the NBA has shown some other games in 3-D at some select cities.

It seems that the 3-D technology has been quite impressive so far.

“Everyone has a connotation of what 3-D is, but I know that when I put on the glasses and actually saw it, I was blown away by the viewing experience,” said Len Komoroski, who is the president of the Cleveland Cavaliers. “It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen. The ‘3-D HD’ tag underserves what the experience actually is.”

More than likely, you will see a big push in advertising for 3-D HD technology next year. Whether or not it will actually take off, however, remains to be seen. After all, many people may not be interested in having to wear goggles while relaxing in the comfort of their homes. At the same time, if it significantly enhances the viewing experience, it just might be worth the trouble.