LG 3D TVs in time for World Cup

LG is promising its first 3D TVs will arrive in the UK by May - in time for football fans to watch this summer's World Cup in the extra dimension. Its first 3D ready TV, the LX9900, comes in 47-inch and 55-inch options and plays 1080p high-definition images - the highest quality available.

LG's TV uses an active 3D system - unlike those found in cinemas. A set of battery-powered 'active' glasses shutter the right and left eye at high-speeds to create 3D images. The advantage of the active system is TV can be enjoyed without a set of glasses and won't look blurred.

In April, Sky is launching the first dedicated 3D channel and promises to screen a weekly Premier League football game in the new format. However, non-Sky customers can still watch 3D pictures with LG's new Blu-ray player, the BX580 which brings the latest 3D blockbusters to the home.

No official prices have been announced, however, LG offered guide prices of £2,500 to £3,000 for the 47-inch LX9900 and around £300 for the BX580 Blu-ray player.

Samsung's 3D TVs are expected to be the first to arrive in the UK. The first sets could be on the high street next month.

Bill Moir, head of marketing at Comet said: "Our first 3D TVs will be available to pre-order online from the end of March and available in stores in April. We've already seen a lot of demand for the new technology. Thousands of customers have already registered their details online with us to receive more information about 3DTV ahead of the UK launch."

Sony's 3D TVs are not expected until June.

Source: The Press Association