BBC to put 3D on hold for three years

Kim Shillinglaw

The BBC is to take a three-year break from developing 3D programming from the end of this year, according to head of 3D Kim Shillinglaw.

Shillinglaw, interviewed in the current issue of the Radio Times, said the corporation would take a break from developing the format when its current two-year trial ends.

She said UK viewers had not take to 3D, with only a relatively small proportion of viewers equipped with 3D sets tuning in to the public broadcaster’s 3D broadcasts.

Shillinglaw, whose main job is head of science and natural history at the BBC, said that she had “never seen a very big appetite for 3D television in the UK” and that watching the format was still “quite a hassly experience” thanks to the need to wear 3D glasses.

The BBC recently confirmed it would show the last stages of this week’s Wimbledon tennis coverage in 3D. Its last big 3D show will be a Doctor Who anniversary episode at the end of the year.