Avail-TVN Announces 3D Programming Services

Avail-TVN, the largest digital media services company in North America, announced its plans for launching a suite of 3D programming services by the end of 2010 for both VOD and linear. Operators will have access to transactional 3D-VOD content and a companion free on-demand service, both in stereoscopic 3D.

In addition, Avail-TVN is planning two linear 3D channels – a transactional PPV channel offering movies, concerts, events, sports programming; and a free-to-the-consumer promotional 3D channel offering features, documentaries, music and specialty programming that will allow consumers to test their 3D sets and glasses.

Avail-TVN is developing its 3D services to work with its service provider customers' existing infrastructure. The company's 3D on-demand offerings will work with existing set-top boxes with minor OTA software updates.

"Commercializing a scalable 3D service for the industry requires coordination between content producers, operators, and technology vendors," said Michael Kazmier, Chief Technology Officer, Avail-TVN. "Our focus has been to bring these partners together in an integrated fashion so that we can deliver a broad selection of 3D programming—transactional and free—for consumers to enjoy on their new 3D TVs."

The transactional PPV and free linear channels will be available to customers during the fourth quarter of 2010. At that time, the company will also launch 3D VOD packages on a transactional basis with a free on-demand option tied to the 3D linear channel.

Source: Avail-TVN