Beginning with the Westfield shopping centre in West London this Friday, you will be able to see first hand, Sky's 3D technology in action with the first of many 'showcase' installations.

Unfortunately, Sky have not released a definitive list of 3D installation locations, stating that "Over the next 12 months Sky expects to have over 100 3D shopping centre demos". If you visit the Sky 3D demo homepage you can keep up to date with news and developments.

Utilising their existing High Definition infrastructure, Sky have confirmed that they will launching a dedicated 3D TV channel in the UK (in pubs this April, available to households later in 2010); they are keen to give consumers a taste of this exciting new technology before it goes live.

The great thing for existing Sky HD subscribers is that the technology works with an unmodified Sky HD box. Those with Sky's top subscription package and the Sky HD pack will have access initially at no extra cost. Of course, there will still be the requirement for a 3D enabled TV. Samsung, Sony, LG and Panasonic are introducing 3D TV's this year compatible with the service.

Although it is not clear at this point in time exactly what programmes will be available, Sky have been filming a number of sporting events in 2009 with purpose built 3D cameras. The broadcaster has promised a wide range of material, including films, sport, documentaries, entertainment and arts programmes.

Sky's 3D system works on the same principle as IMAX 3D technology. Polarising glasses filter one of two slightly different images (one for each eye), fooling the brain into thinking it is viewing an image in three dimensions.

Early indications are that Sky's 3D technology works well but needs refinement. Concentrated on screen action such as a boxing match gives a genuine 3D effect which is somewhat lost when the viewer needs to appreciate the whole screen when viewing events like football or rugby matches.

On the 31st Jan, Sky broadcast the premiership football match between Arsenal and Manchester United in 3D, around selected pubs in the UK. As the players emerged from the tunnel they seemed to walk straight onto the pub floor, bringing gasps of delighted surprise from pub goers. The overall experience however brought a mixed reaction with some genuinely enthused by the technology while others were quite neutral.

Sky are sure to introduce a refined version of the technology when their 3D channel goes live this April.

If you would like to find out more about the technology you might like to read our 3D TV, Cinema & Gaming Guide

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