In a ‘what-to-expect’ release, the Blu-ray Disc Association has laid out the specifications of the upcoming 3D Blu-ray disc. The release reveals features like 1080p resolution and cross-compatibility of the discs and the player as well. In other words the 3D and the 2D disc can be played on the 3D player as well as the 2D player, while the existing 2D player will be able to run the 3D disc as well. The 3D specification also specifies the use of an extension of the AVC codec, the MVC codec.
As per the BDA, “throughout this year (2009), movie goers have shown an overwhelming preference for 3D when presented with the option to see a theatrical release in either 3D or 2D” Further flaunting the new standard the BDA puts forth, “from a technological perspective, it is simply the best available platform for bringing 3D into the home”
The specifications don’t necessarily spell the obsolescence of existing devices. The outlined specifications contend that the 3D version will be compatible across existing ‘3D display’ output device. Moreover, the above-mention backward compatibility feature would help consumers to play the new standard on their 2D devices. So effectively, the existing Blu-ray player and the HD television would be able to run the new media, but would need upgrade to give you the all the 3D experience, that the new format promises.