Netflix Offering 3D Streaming

8 Jan, 2013 By: Erik Gruenwedel

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Netflix Jan. 8 said streaming subscribers have access for the first time to a limited number of 3D titles through its Open Connect content delivery network (CDN).

The titles, which require a 3D-compatible television and appropriate eyewear, include action-fantasy-drama Immortals, Red Bull Media House's snowboarding documentary The Art of Flight, and a number of titles from the Discovery/Sony/Imax joint venture 3net Studios, including the native, original 3D series "African Wild," "Scary Tales" and "Live Fire."

Netflix said it will consider adding 3D titles and expanding availability to international markets depending on subscriber interest.

Launched last year, Netflix’s open source CDN is capable of handling Super HD and 3D video formats. The Los Gatos, Calif.-based rental service offers Open Connect free to third-party ISPs delivering Netflix streams.

Cablevision, the New York-based multichannel video distributor, recently joined the CDN.

"With Open Connect, we are establishing a direct local connection with Netflix that delivers a higher-quality Netflix viewing experience for Optimum customers than Verizon or AT&T can provide, including access to new Netflix Super HD and 3D TV shows and movies,” CEO James Dolan said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Netflix members can verify their ISP is part of Open Connect and provides access to Netflix Super HD and 3D by checking

ISPs that are not yet on Open Connect can contact Netflix at . As part of Open Connect, Netflix is also sharing its hardware design and the open source software components. These designs are suitable for any other provider of large media files and are very cost efficient.

“These new Super HD and 3D formats are more challenging to deliver than our other video streams, which is why we will deliver them through Open Connect," said Ken Florance, VP of content delivery at Netflix. "Any ISP that wants to be able to deliver our new formats can do so easily and for free."

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