iSuppli tips 3D TV shipments to grow 463% in 2011
Consumers are increasingly beginning to see the appeal of 3D TV.
New and improved marketing techniques and falling prices are set to spark a major increase in 3D TV shipments by the end of 2011, according to IHS iSuppli.Projections from the analyst claimed global sales of these digital TVs will reach 23.4 million this year, up 463 per cent on the figure recorded in 2010.
Triple-digital growth is also predicted in 2012, with shipments expected to increase by 132 per cent to 54.2 million units. By 2014, the industry will see sales breach the 100 million mark, before hitting 159.2 million the following year.
As well as new promotional strategies and a drop in upfront costs, IHS iSuppli said the creation of more 3D content will contribute to this surge in purchases.
The technology launched in the US and UK last June and October respectively and by the end of 2010, more than 80 live sources of 3D programming had been broadcast.
More options will be made available throughout 2011, the analyst noted, with sports-related events set to be the most popular form of 3D content. Documentaries, films and primetime entertainment in 3D will also become more prevalent, it added.
Last month, Sky claimed it will become the first broadcaster in the world to screen a live music festival in 3D with its coverage of the Isle of Wight and Bestival music concerts.
The events will see performances from the likes of Kings of Leon, Primal Scream and Foo Fighters.
Riddhi Patel, director for television systems and retail services at IHS, commented: "In a major recalibration effort, television brands are changing strategies this year following lukewarm response to 3D in 2010 when consumers balked at the high price of sets and the lack of 3D content.
"In 2011, however, brands are marketing 3D not as a must-have technology but as a desirable feature, similar to the approach they have taken with internet connectivity."
