Canal+ to close 3D channel

French pay TV broadcaster Canal+ is to close its 3D channel following poor take-up.

The move marks the first closure of a 3D network from a major international pay TV provider and will have repercussions across the industry.

The Vivendi-owned platform reportedly had around 12,000 subscribers for the service, which aired live sporting events including English Premier League soccer and Hollywood movies including Shark Night 3D, Saw 3D and Jackass 3D. The channel launched in 2010 and will close on January 24th.

René Saal, deputy managing director in charge of programming and operations, Canal+ Group, said the company doesn’t believe anymore in 3D on TV, for the moment and added people are just watching a few minutes before
leaving for the same programme in 2D.

Saal added that Canal Plus may consider relaunching the service in the future if there is public demand.