Jupiter Telecommunications Co., Ltd., a CATV multiple system operator associated with Sumitomo Corporation, has been building up focus on the 3-D video programming distribution business since it launched the service on a subscription video-on-demand (VOD) basis on April 16. The multi-channel operator, better known by the brand name J:COM, provides 24 video titles available for 3-D presentation (as of May 7), including some which are offered free of charge, with a wide variety of content ranging from Japanese films, golf programs, Korean movie stars fan gatherings to natural landscape shows. J:COM subscribers can watch 3-D programs anytime at home.

Following the rollout of the new service, J:COM started a demonstration campaign at 43 of its J:COM outlet shops across Japan, inviting visitors to view sample 3-D pictures in purpose-built booths from April, 23. Aiko Makita, head of the J:COM shop in Kyodo (Tokyo), operated by J:COM Setamachi, says that the campaign seeks to provide opportunities to view 3-D images for people who have not yet had the chance to do so. Expectations for the 3-D video distribution service appear to be growing, as it becomes more popular, as illustrated by an example of feedback from a sample viewer: "3-D pictures on TV are more thrilling than those shown in theaters since it is closer to the eye. I really hope 3-D programs will become a norm in daily life."

As another advertising campaign, J SPORTS, nationwide #1 sports broadcaster,  majority owned by J:COM, will hold Japan's first public viewing 3-D live sports event--rugby match between Japan and Kazakhstan in the HSBC Asian 5 Nations 2010, Asian final qualifier for the 2011 Rugby World Cup on May 15th. The public viewing of the match, scheduled to kick off at 14:00, will be staged at the UDX Theater in Akihabara. The 3-D live broadcast of the match is also to be shown at three J:COM shops (one in Kanto and two in Kansai). The event invites as many people as possible to come and be amazed by the stunning visual effects created through 3-D technology.