The Fall of 3D TVs. Here’s Why They Disappeared As Fast As They Came.

Let’s get real for a second. How many times have you really watched anything in 3D? If it is countable, you are part of the vast majority. That’s pretty much about 3D TV. The fall of 3D TVs was tragic for those who really enjoyed it. Could it possibly return in the future? For those who don’t know what these TVs are, let’s start from the beginning.

What are 3 Dimensional TVs?

This is a device that renders 3D content that contains extra visual information. These televisions use extra visual information to create a somewhat realistic image that appears to have depth or seems to project into three-dimensional space in front of the TV. The TVs use either active or passive eyeglass technology. Active 3D TVs use shutter glasses to synchronise with the TV to open and close each lens at the right time. Passive 3D TVs use cheaper polarised glasses that separate the stereo frames by polarization. There are also some 3D technologies that do not necessarily require the use of glasses.

What brought the fall of 3D TVs?

Quite a number of things combined brought the fall of the 3D TV before it started:

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1. Limited amount of 3D content. There was not much 3D content produced from regular channels or streaming services. This is because it is complex to create a 3D stream and requires and huge bandwidth which is costly.
2. High prices. The 3D TVs were very expensive and since there wasn’t enough 3D content, it made no sense to spend hundreds of thousands to pay for a feature that will be barely used. They didn’t add much value to home broadcasting, unlike cinemas where the big screen and sound gives 3D great uniqueness.
3. Restrictive viewing. It’s best to view at 90 degrees perpendicular and the 3D effect greatly diminishes the more you move. You may have also noted at the movies, it is better to sit at the centre other than on the farthest left or right. Viewing could get difficult.
4. Uncomfortable eyewear. Most 3D TVs require active eyewear, which is expensive and heavy and needs to be constantly charged. This is especially not great for people who wear prescription glasses.

Where are they now?

With the drastic fall of 3D TVs, major manufacturers stopped production of 3D TVs as of January 2017. 3D TVs making a comeback doesn’t look likely unless it comes implemented and modified with other technologies.