'ESPN 3D' was launched in the summer of 2010 and allowed fans to watch sports games that made it seem like they were actually at the game; however, these games were reruns that had been produced in 3D after they had occurred. At the 2012 CES, ESPN 3D launched a new aspect to the product, and it's a biggie: live sports in 3D.
If you thought 3D sports were impressive, now they will be available the moment they air. ESPN 3D gave a demo at the 2012 CES that broadcast the LSU vs Alabama BCS National Championship game in real-time. Spectators left the theater "wow'd" having seen the first live college football game in 3D.
ESPN's next big plan is to televise the 'Winter X Games' in full 3D format. If this kind of technology had been around back when Michael Jordan was winning championships, no one would have ever left their living room.
Live 3D Sports Broadcasts
'ESPN 3D' Goes from Reruns to Real-Time at CES 2012
Trend Themes
1. Live 3D Broadcasts - The trend towards live 3D broadcasts will continue as technology advances and consumer demand grows.
2. Virtual Reality Sports Viewing - As consumers become more comfortable with immersive media experiences, virtual reality sports viewing will become more popular.
3. Interactive Sports Broadcasting - Interactive sports broadcasting will become more prevalent as viewers seek to engage more deeply with the content they are watching.
Industry Implications
1. Sports Broadcasting - The sports broadcasting industry has significant opportunities to disrupt the market through the development of new 3D and virtual reality technologies.
2. Television Manufacturing - Television manufacturers will need to adapt to the rise of 3D and virtual reality broadcasting technology by creating more advanced displays.
3. Sports Entertainment - Sports entertainment companies have a chance to engage audiences in new ways through interactive and immersive broadcasting experiences.