Scanning the Issue

Digital media, networking, and information technologies are now adding a new, third dimension to all forms of visual communications. Emerging 3-D media services are expected to further blur the lines between the physical and virtual worlds, and the experience associated with 3-D media will transform the way people live, work, and play. Threedimensional media will allow greater flexibility and choices for the entertainment, broadcast, education, and telecommunications industries, as well as consumers. 2010 was a breakthrough year for 3-D media. Numerous 3-D movies were released to theaters and created large revenues. The most successful films ever made are now in 3-D. Threedimensional consumer items entered the shops and stereo displays are now in the living rooms. Major events, such as the 2010 FIFA World Cup, were broadcast in 3-D, and the first commercial 3DTV channels are now on the air. Global players in consumer electronics predict that in 2015 more than 30% of all high-definition (HD) panels at home will be equipped with 3-D capabilities. Gamers can also enjoy interactive and immersive entertainment in a new dimension. Mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), laptops, and similar devices can provide us the extended visual sensation anytime, anywhere. Three-dimensional camera systems are already available for professional and private users. Unlike previous attempts to make 3-D media widely available, there are good reasons to believe that this time it will be a sustainable trend. Stereoscopic 3-D technology is now mature enough for the market in terms of quality of experience and content. There is a clear demand from the user side and attractive business opportunities are visible. The content and value chains are in place for various application scenarios.