Blu-ray 3D blockbusters like The Amazing Spider-Man and The Hobbit could be a significant force in sustaining 3D TV sales, together with a steady growth in the number of BD 3D titles entering the market, according to Futuresource Consulting's latest survey. By 2016, 3D Blu-ray is expected to account for 24% of total Blu-ray sales in the US and close to 35% in Western Europe.

The industry analysts estimate that by the end of 2012 some 175 titles will be available in the US, and with a further 105 expected to be released in 2013, total title availability will reach close to 300, made up of blockbusters and indie films as well as niche and documentary releases.

In figures quoted in 3D Focus, within Western Europe, 3.1 million homes were 3D Blu-ray capable in 2011 (households owing both a 3D TV and either a standalone 3D Blu-ray player or PS3). By 2016, 41% Western European homes will be 3D Blu-ray capable.

In the US last year 4.8 million 3D Blu-ray sales were recorded with a further 3 million units in Western Europe where 3D titles represented 5% of total sales.

This year, Futuresource's consultancy director Jim Bottoms expects US Blu-ray title sales to reach 11.5 million units, accounting for 9% of total Blu-ray units. Western European sales are forecast to reach 8 million units and will account for close to 11% of total Blu-ray title sales.

While consumers would prefer an auto-stereoscopic glasses-free road to consuming 3D content, Bottoms believes that several elements must fall into place before this becomes widely available. "Not only must manufacturing costs be reduced to a level where the displays can be sold at a mass-market price point, the sets must also be able to deliver a 3D experience equivalent to, or ideally exceeding, the quality of today?s active shutter 3D displays," he told 3D Focus.

Story filed 11.07.12