2012 London Olympics – Less Than 0.5% Of BBC Viewers Watched In 3D
The Olympics as an event was something that 3D TV makers were looking forward to to get a feel of viewers’ reaction to the new display format. That BBC had announced telecast of the event even though it was to be only some segments of it in 3D had been added reason for these 3D advocates to think about increased interest for this viewing format. Survey carried out by BARB, that is Broadcasters’ Audience Research Board however has come back with very dismal figures. It is only just 0.5 percent of BBC viewers who have responded as having viewed the opening ceremony in 3D.
The coverage in 3D had been aired via the BBC HD channel. As per Attentional — the bureau that collects the BARB data, the total number of viewers who actually changed to the BBC HD channel was 113,000. The only positive aspect about this number is that this marked an increase when compared to previous events that has been aired in 3D. The number when compared to the total viewership base however is yet miniscule. The total viewership in the UK is 26.9 million.
Compare this number of 3D viewers of the opening ceremony of the London Olympics to that of the men’s single event of the Wimbledon last month. The number of viewers then was 17 million in 2d and just 30,000 who watched it in 3D. The comparator percentage between 2D to 3D works out to 0.18 percent then which has since increased to 0.42 percent for the Opening Ceremony broadcast of Olympics 2012.
One of the most sought for event of the Olympics is the men’s 100 meter final and that has been broadcast in 3D with some footage of pre-event clips as well. There is also the closing ceremony scheduled on 12 August that would be precluded by some review program, which also is supposed to be holding some interest amongst viewers in 3D.
BBC is also showing an hour long days highlight every evening at 11 pm. This also is being aired in 3D. One can get the show on Freeview channel 54; Freesat 109; Sky 169; and Virgin 187 channels.
via hdtvtest
Sovan Mandal is the senior tablet and tech corespondent for goodereader.com and 3D Specialist. He brings a international approach to news that is not just applicable to the North American market, but also Asia, India, Europe and others. Sovy brings his own writing flavor to the website and is interested in Science Fiction, Technology and Writing. Any questions, send an email
