Best Buy Unleashes 3D TVs From Panasonic

The technology retail giant said its Full HD 3D Home Theater System will be available at Best Buy stores' Magnolia Home Theater division for a combined price of $2899.99. The system comprises a 50-inch Panasonic VIERA television for $2,499.95, with a pair of 3D glasses, and a Blu-ray disc player for $399.95. Extra glasses cost $149.95 each.

Best Buy now moves into the forefront in selling a new form of consumer technology, an analyst said.

"It's important for Best Buy to maintain a positioning as a destination for the greatest and latest consumer technology," said Ross Rubin at research firm NPD Group, according to The Wall Street Journal. "It's a statement to establish leadership in the new television technology. That's one way they differentiate from Wal-Mart and other competitors. We see a disproportionate interest from younger consumers in 3-D TV. This is clearly something Best Buy can pitch to the early adopters."

The popularity of 3D technology is just beginning, said Michael Vitelli, president, Americas, Best Buy.

"The demand for 3D technology in the home is just beginning for consumers," Vitelli said. "And Best Buy is uniquely positioned to bring this experience to life for our customers through our Blue Shirts and Geek Squad Agents. We are thrilled to partner with Panasonic as it allows us to be the first retailer to offer this complete 3D home theater solution and underscores our promise to always deliver on the latest and greatest technology."

"Television has successfully moved from black and white, to color, to high-definition," Panasonic senior vice president Bob Perry added in the statement. "But immersive, totally realistic 3D imagery has been the final frontier and beginning today, Panasonic has conquered that as well. Best Buy has been a proactive and important partner in bringing 3D into the living rooms of America and we are happy to share this milestone with them."

Amazon.com and Sears Holdings also sell 3-D TVs from Samsung Electronics, according to their Web sites, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Vitelli said television is a critical part of the company's portfolio and continues to grow. He added that the first people in line for the new units will most likely be those who were the first to adopt HD a decade ago.