China's first 3D TV channel will start a trial run on January 1, a spokesman from the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television said. After the test-run stage, the channel will be officially put into operation during Spring Festival later in January.
The satellite channel will offer 3D programs daily from 10:30am to midnight. Producing the 3D channel's content will be China Central Television, Radio and Television Beijing, Radio and Television Shanghai, Radio and Television Tianjin, Radio and Television Jiangsu Province and Shenzhen Television Station.
The programs will include animation, sports, documentaries, TV dramas, entertainment and live broadcasting of big events such as CCTV New Year's Gala and the London 2012 Olympic Games.
To watch the 3D programs, consumers need to buy a 3D TV set and install Capable TV's high-definition set-top-box. The channel will charge no viewing fees during its early phase of running.
TV fan and local company worker Jeffrey Qiu said 3D programs can create a more stunning visual experience. "3D TV is expected to be an inevitable trend," Qiu said. "However, it will still take a long time for 3D TV to be popular around the city because of the expensive equipment like the 3D TV sets."
According to Professor Gu Xiaoming, a TV and film expert from Fudan University, it is not necessary to remaster all TV programs into 3D, especially given the relatively high production and programming costs.
"The 3D technology is not a must and it should not generate too much extra expenditure," Professor Gu said.
"I hope the authority can provide more economic assistance for the first group of 3D TV audiences."
Eye experts suggest viewers limit their 3D experience to one hour at a time because too much may cause dizziness, nausea, headaches and myopia.