^{Wednesday 17th March 2010}

Panasonic has announced that their 3D TVs have sold out in their first week of sale in the US, with success of the record breaking film Avatar believed to be behind most sales.

The shortage of 3D TVs in the US is prompting Panasonic, the world’s largest plasma TV maker, to take waiting list orders from retailers. Analysts believe that Avatar, the highest ever grossing film at the box office, and sports event such as the 2010 World Cup will potentially drive demand for 3D viewing.

The company became the first major TV maker to sell 3D sets in the US when its 50 inch full HD TV went on sale with a pair of glasses and 3D Blu-ray player for $2,899.99 on March 10th. Samsung began offering a 55 inch 3D model from March 14th and Sony plans to start selling 3D models from June.

The success of Avatar and current success of Alice in Wonderland have prompted analysts to predict that the global shipment of 3D TVs may reach 4.2 million this year and more than triple to 12.9 million in 2011. Samsung has already announced that it plans to sell more than 2 million 3D sets this year.

3D technology had gathered pace over the past decade with improved picture quality which is attracting the 3D TV buyers to the market. Samsung have announced that they plan enhanced glasses in the near future which will make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

In Japan, Panasonic’s shares rose 1.7% to 1,343 yen, while Samsung advanced 4.3% in South Korea.

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_{Source: Bloomberg 17/03/2010 'Panasonci 3-D televisions Sell Out in U.S. Stores'}