Free-to-air channels appear to have abandoned 3D technology even though Australians splashed out more than $361 million on 3D TVs after successful 3D trials last year.
Broadcasting groups confirmed that 3D TV transmitters had now been removed from transmission towers in Australia's capital cities, and the Australian Communications and Media Authority had received no further applications for 3D TV trials, even though its transmission channel would remain available until December.
The lack of interest will mean major events, including the Rugby World Cup, will not be televised in 3D despite being filmed and available in three dimensions.
Fusion Strategy media analyst Steve Allen said the lack of action could relegate 3D TV technology to a "fad" at least for the time being and the situation would not change until 3D TV viewers complained to broadcasters in large numbers.
"The problem for telecasters is that 3D is all very interesting but it costs a lot more to telecast, so until there's a big demand they're not going to do it," he said.
"My feeling is that 3D was a fad and it has stalled.
"It may pick up again but that's not going to change in the short term."
Broadcast ONE managing director Darren Kirsop-Frearson said the 3D transmitters used to broadcast 3D coverage of the State of Origin and FIFA World Cup last year had been removed, though he said free-to-air TV networks could still hold more 3D trials if they had a change of heart.
"Technically, it can be done," Mr Kirsop-Frearson said. "The antennas are still there but they require a separate (3D) transmitter to send these broadcasts.
"It's probably a case of economics. It's not cheap to do, especially for just a couple of weeks. Last year they had a sponsor."
If the reluctance to broadcast 3D footage continues, Australian viewers may miss out on 3D coverage of the 2012 London Olympic Games.
Currently 3D TV owners can watch 3D movies on Blu-ray Discs and through pay-TV provider Foxtel. The company recently aired 3D footage of the X Games, though a spokeswoman confirmed it had no plans to broadcast the Rugby World Cup in 3D.
The Rugby World Cup final, bronze final and semi-finals will be filmed in 3D, however, with 3D broadcasts at selected Event Cinemas.
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