3D TV on Sky

Sky launched Europe’s first 3D channel in October 2010, bringing the exciting new TV revolution into the home. While animation and kid’s movies might have taken the lead in 3D so far, the Sky 3D channel hosts a range of different genres, from fantastic movies for all the family, to groundbreaking documentaries and some of the best live sporting events on the calendar.

With programmes like David Attenborough’s Flying Monsters, Avatar, Toy Story, The US Masters and The UEFA Champions League Final, Sky 3D has got everyone’s favourite entertainment, but in a totally new dimension. They’ve really shown that it’s still about the quality of the content, it’s still about how good the game is, how breathtaking the documentary. The technology doesn’t replace these things – it enhances them.

Sky is clearly dedicated to the future of 3D and is proud to lead the way in TV entertainment. It’s already been making the most out of 3D technology but there are exciting new developments on the road ahead – Sky has agreed with all the major movie studios to showcase the very best of Hollywood in 3D. So far they’ve showcased the world’s first live opera in 3D as well as stunning live ballet, not to mention some of the biggest events on the sporting calendar.  Sky 3D customers can now enjoy a cinema-like experience while watching amazing 3D from the comfort of their own home.

Upgrading to 3D comes at no extra cost. You just need to be a Sky World HD customer with a 3D TV, which means you must have all six entertainment packs: the Sports Pack, Movies Pack and have a Sky+ HD box with the HD pack.

Sky 3D TV technology is compatible with every 3D TV on the market including LG, Sony, Panasonic and Samsung. LG is the only manufacturer that offers both Active and Passive 3D TV sets. You can then activate the Sky 3D channel whenever you want – just go to sky.com/3D to find out more. When the channel is activated, all you need to do is switch your TV to 3D mode, put on your 3D glasses and enjoy the incredible world of Sky in 3D. You’ll find it on channel 217 on your Sky HD+ Box.

Here are some frequently asked questions…

Are the glasses the same ones you use at the cinema?
Your TV will be either active or passive and this will determine what glasses you need.  Active glasses work by alternating the image between the right and left eye at high-speed. Each lens alternately opens and shuts very quickly, and don’t worry, you won’t notice a thing. It works to give the image more depth. Passive glasses are called “passive” because they don’t rely on batteries and are completely the same as the ones you get in the cinema. These work with polarised filters that block out certain colours from each eye in turn. 

Is there a 3D TV that doesn’t require glasses?
Yes, there’s a TV that uses a corrugated screen which reflects light at an acute angle but the image quality is not very good as you have to sit facing the screen directly. Any slight movement can lessen the 3D experience. These aren’t on sale as yet.

How is 3D captured?
3D is all about creating the illusion of volume and space. It’s achieved by simultaneously projecting two images on to a screen which are obtained by initially recording films with two cameras. Then once you pop on your 3D glasses and switch on your 3D TV setting, geometric correction ensures that the images are perfectly aligned so your brain instantly adjusts.
For more information go to sky.com/3D