BSkyB to launch Europe's first 3D TV channel next year

BSkyB is to launch Europe's first 3D TV channel offering movies, entertainment and sports programming in the UK next year.

The satellite broadcaster, which recently said that 3D TV could be a reality within several years, has stepped up its roll-out programme after a major boost in the numbers subscribers to its Sky+ HD set-top boxes, which are capable of broadcasting 3D services.

BSkyB, which has doubled the number of customers with Sky+ HD boxes in the last year to 1.31m, said that it will launch a channel offering 3D movies, entertainment and sport.

However, to watch 3D programming customers will also require a new "3D ready" TV set, which are expected to be on sale in the UK next year, and special glasses.

At a recent demonstration BSkyB used a Hyundai TV which retails at £2,500, although the broadcaster hopes that ultimately 3D TV sets will not cost much more than a standard HD plasma screen.