The Blu-ray Disc Association has published the final specification for 3D Blu-ray video. Blu-ray 3D employs an amended H.264 codec called Multiview Video Coding (MVC) to deliver stereoscopic 3D images, which is backward compatible and surprisingly only uses about 50% more data than equivalent 2D media.
The new standard incorporates 3D menus and subtitles, and works with many existing and yet-to-be-released display technologies, as well as the PlayStation 3 (via a pending firmware update). The completed specification will be available "shortly" and will offer the technical information required for manufacturers and content providers to develop, announce and bring 3D products to market.
While many people – including myself – have little interest in 3D media, BDA Global Promotions Committee Victor Matsuda says that when given the option, moviegoers prefer to watch theatrical releases in 3D over 2D. Do you plan to buy 3D-related products when available? Is this just another fad?