TV to Go 3D in 2010

HDTV is about to become old hat. Sony, Panasonic, Mitsubishi, and JVC all intend to debut new 3D television sets next year. The manufacturers are likening the move to the standard-to-high-def switch—or even the shift from black-and-white to color. “TV finally becomes real,” a Panasonic VP tells CNN. “You’re in it. It’s the next frontier.”

To get in on the revolution, you’ll need a new TV and, yes, the glasses. Sony and Panasonic’s “active” eyewear operates like rapid-fire Venetian blinds, while JVC is working on a set using polarized glasses. You’ll also need 3D programming, which could be a bigger hurdle. ESPN is test-recording games in 3D, but most broadcasters haven’t bought in yet. (More HDTV stories.)