DirecTV to Launch ESPN's 3D Channel TVWeek

DirecTV has become the fist distributor to announce that it will carry ESPN's new 3D channel.

According to the ESPN announcement, "ESPN 3D will showcase a minimum of 85 live sporting events during its first year, beginning June 11 with the first 2010 FIFA World Cup match, featuring South Africa versus Mexico. Other events to be produced in 3D include X Games 16, 2010 college football ACC Championship, 2011 BCS National Championship game, college basketball and NBA games in 2011."

This 3D service is for the new generation of TV sets that are 3D capable. Viewers must wear special polarized glasses--some active, some passive--with clear lenses, to get the 3D effect.

DirectTV will not charge extra for ESPN 3D if a subscriber already receives ESPN.

Also, according to the announcement, DirecTV has some more details about the other 3D offerings it will have: "In addition to N3D™ powered by Panasonic, which will deliver the best 3D programming from programmers such as AEG/AEG Digital Media, CBS, Fox Sports/FSN, Golden Boy Promotions, HDNet, MTV, NBC Universal and Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., DIRECTV will also offer a 24/7 3D pay per view channel and a 24/7 3D DIRECTV on Demand channel, beginning this June. This June, DIRECTV HD customers will receive a free software upgrade enabling them to have access to the 3D channels on DIRECTV. DIRECTV HD customers will need a 3D television set and 3D glasses to view 3D programming on DIRECTV."