(April 1, 2010) — Ten years ago, people went rushing into electronic stores to purchase a high-definition television. A couple years later, consumers upgraded to a more eco-friendly LCD TV. Recently, LED TVs have been the main commodity. However, later this year, a new trend may be born. Movie buffs will no longer have to go to a theatre to experience the thrill of three dimensional graphics. TV manufacturers Toshiba, Samsung, Sony, Panasonic and LG have announced their plans to release 3-D televisions in the coming months. Not only will viewers be able to watch 3D movies in the comfort of their homes, but they will also be able to view sports, video games and shows. Although audiences will still have to wear glasses in order to appreciate programs in 3D, 3D TVs will have full color and 1080p HD resolution, according to CNET.com. That means 3D TVs will have the same resolution quality as today’s top TVs. Since a 3D TV has a smaller screen than one at an IMAX, viewers will have a narrower field to view the projected images. Depending on the size of the screen, it is recommended that viewers watch from a distance of at least 6 feet, to enjoy quality 3D graphics. While IMAX films use passive 3D glasses, 3D TVs will operate using shutter glasses. Shutter glasses function by alternately opening and closing each lens to show each eye a different image. Even though movie junkies like junior Ajmin Sarian will be able to watch 3D at home, there are some drawbacks. Many 3D TVs will either come with only one pair of 3D glasses or none at all, so families who want to watch together will be expected to pay at least $100 per pair. In addition, viewers who want to watch Blu-ray movies in 3D will have to purchase a 3D Blu-ray player, costing upwards of $250. One of the first 3D TVs available on the market is Samsung’s UNC7000. It is available in dimensions of 46, 50, and 55 inches. A 55-inch TV costs around $3000. Since it is one of the first TVs with 3D compatibility, experts consider the price tag to be a bit steep. They are urging prospective buyers to wait for more models. “Even if a 3D TV costs a lot, I think it is worth the money.” As was the case with HDTVs when they first came out, it will take a few years for 3D TV prices to drop. With time, 3D technologies should also improve. For some, like freshman Tania Kartolova, watching something in 3D is disorienting. “I only watch movies in 2D because it hurts my eyes.” But 3D TVs will also give owners the flexibility to switch back to high definition 2D. However, due to the high costs of 3D TVs, Kartolova believes few people will buy them. “The idea of 3D TVs sounds highly doubtful, but anything is possible.”