AUSTIN – DisplaySearch today raised its forecast for 3D-capable TV shipments as hype turns into “real products.”

The research firm said shipments would grow from 2.5 million in 2010 to 27 million sets in 2013, dominated initially by developed regions, with North American shipments accounting for more than half of shipments this year.

“In 2009, we saw the first 3D-capable TVs, with the market greatly accelerating at CES 2010. Now we are seeing the hype turning into real products,” said Paul Gray, director of TV electronics research. “The key issue will be how consumers react to the initial product launch, and what the industry will learn from the feedback of early adopters. Complications in the TV supply chain – especially 3D content shortages – remain the biggest hurdles to overcome.”

The video processing and extra display performance required for 3D remain relatively costly compared to entry-level models, says the research firm. As a result, 3D is constrained by the penetration of double or quadruple frame rate sets in the market.

While 3D is forecast to show rapid growth, DisplaySearch indicates only 27% of 40" or larger sets shipped in 2013 will be 3D-capable. Furthermore, Blu-ray Disc and HD broadcast have low penetration in Western Europe, and as a result, a content gap remains that needs to be filled before 3D can flourish.