China launches 3D TV channel

China has launched its first three-dimensional television (3D TV) channel on a trial basis coinciding with the NewYear, a development considered significant in the booming nation's televisionindustry.

The channel, China3D TV Trial Channel, is jointly operated by state-run China Central Television(CCTV) and other five local TV stations in Beijing,Tianjin, Shanghai, Jiangsu and Shenzhen.

People can watch 3D-effect programmes with 3D TV sets andwired high-definition digital TV set-top-boxes.

The channel broadcasts a total of 13.5 hours every day from10:30 to 24:00, with 4.5 hours of first broadcast and two rebroadcasts.

The channel will be formally launched during the upcomingSpring Festival, or Chinese Lunar New Year starting January 23.

Programmes of performing arts, sports, cartoons and movieswith 3D effects will be broadcast on the channel, CCTV said.

"The launch of the 3D trial channel is a significantstep in the development of China'stelevision," said Cai Fuchao, head of the State Administration of Radio,Film and Television.

Cai added that the 3D TV channel can create a demand worthhundreds of billions yuan, if part of China's 500 million TV sets arereplaced by 3D ones.

Countries like Japanand South Koreahave already launched similar services. (With PTI inputs)