BBC puts 3D project on hold due to lack of appetite for the technology

The BBC has said that it will be taking a three-year break from developing its 3D programming due to a lack of interest in the technology from the British public.

The BBC’s head of 3D, Kim Shillinglaw – who has been overseeing the corporation’s two-year pilot for 3D – this week told the RadioTimes.com that the take up of 3D has been ‘disappointing’, which she believes is because watching 3D is a ‘hassly’ experience in the home.

“You have got to find your glasses before switching on the TV. I think when people watch TV they concentrate in a different way. When people go to the cinema they go and are used to doing one thing,” Shillinglaw said.

During the pilot, the corporation has experimented with televising shows and events in 3D, including wildlife documentary Walking with Dinosaurs and last year’s Olympics.

Despite the hiatus, which will begin at the end of this year, the BBC is to see through projects including the 3D Doctor Who anniversary episode in November and two other minor projects.

The news might also be a bit of a surprise for some, as the BBC has been advertising that it will be broadcasting Wimbledon matches in 3D this coming weekend.

“After that we will see what happens when the recession ends and there may be more take up of sets but I think the BBC will be having a wait and see,” Shillinglaw said. “It’s the right time for a good old pause.”