3D television expands to adult programming

Far beyond animated kids movies and superhero films, 3D technology is moving into adult entertainment, as Penthouse readies the launch a 3D channel devoted to original adult-oriented programming.

The Penthouse 3D channel supplements the lineup of 30 platforms in more than 15 countries as part of the FriendFinder Network, an internet company. The new venture is expected to be broadcast to the public in the second quarter of 2011.

Penthouse, which began as a competitor of Playboy Magazine, isn't the only publication going 3D. Sports Illustrated announced at the CES Show in Las Vegas that its upcoming swimsuit issue will offer a 3D video version of the famed annual photo spread.

Sony will make the half-hour video available to rent or purchase on its PlayStation 3 and on web-enabled, 3D-compatible Bravia TVs and Blu-ray players as of February 15.

The effort to provide desirable 3D content is intended to encourage the use of 3D television sets, which has been slower to catch on than expected, according to Hollywood blog TheWrap. Sony anticipated that 3D TVs would account for $11.2 billion in revenue.

Sports programming may move 3D along with ESPN 3D expands its programming to 24/7 on Valentine's Day, February 14. Currently the channel airs only select games and events.

RC