Will DirecTV be launching a 3D channel in 2010?

Like it or not, 3D is coming to your HDTV in the future, and signs point to that future coming really quickly. According to HDGuru.com, DirecTV is looking to jump start things by introducing the country's first 3D channel at next month's CES event. The station will feature a mix of different programming all recorded in 3D HD, and should may start broadcasting as soon as March, when the company's latest satellite launches into orbit.

How will DirecTV subscribers be able to watch this station? Obviously, they'll need a 3D set from the growing list of manufacturers promising to offer compatible HDTVs, though most of these models don't exist yet. Ones that are available, in the form of Mitsubishi DLP sets, will need a special 3D converter box. You won't need a new set-top box, however, as that part of the technical equation will be taken care of in the form of a firmware upgrade. And, of course, you'll need those special glasses to actually view that third dimension.

More details should be forthcoming during the convention next month. By then, you'll be inundated with announcements concerning numerous new 3D HDTVs and probably more 3D programming options. Brace yourself for 3D frenzy.