San Francisco—Jul 31, 2006
Dolby Announces Deal With Infitec GmbH to Provide 3-D Technology for Dolby Digital Cinema
New technology to Provide High-Quality and Flexible Digital 3-D Solution
Dolby Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE:DLB) announced today that it has signed an agreement with Infitec GmbH, a leading provider of virtual reality 3-D technologies based in Germany, to develop a new 3-D system specifically for digital cinema. The agreement is part of Dolby's dedication to improving the moviegoing experience. The new 3-D technology will provide exhibitors with a 3-D solution for digital cinema that offers superb quality as well as operational flexibility from Dolby, the leading supplier of innovative technologies to the cinema industry.
"For the past 30 years, directors, studios, and exhibitors have looked to Dolby to provide innovative technologies that will uphold the unique experience of going to the movies," said Bill Jasper, President and CEO, Dolby Laboratories. "By collaborating with Infitec GmbH, Dolby will enable exhibitors to provide audiences with stunning 3-D images from an easily integrated system that comes with Dolby's trusted reliability."
Dolby's 3-D technology solution will integrate with the Dolby® Digital Cinema system to provide exhibitors with a compelling enhancement for moviegoing audiences that can't be duplicated outside the cinema.
Infitec's developments in 3-D technology will enable the system to project a 3-D image directly on to the exhibitors' existing white screens, without the need for a special silver screen. Currently, this is possible only by using expensive, battery-powered glasses. Dolby's solution will eliminate the need for battery-powered glasses but will use the lightweight, comfortable glasses to which audiences are becoming accustomed.
"Recent 3-D digital movie releases have demonstrated true audience demand," said Tim Partridge, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Professional Division, Dolby Laboratories. "Per screen attendances for 3-D digital screens have been more than double those of traditional showings, which is why we believe that combining the 3-D experience with our Dolby Digital Cinema solution is a win-win proposition for exhibitors and moviegoers."
"We are thrilled to be working with Dolby on taking the 3-D moviegoing experience to the next level," said Helmut Jorke, CEO, Infitec GmbH. "Dolby is highly regarded for introducing innovative technologies to the motion picture industry and the perfect partner to build on the success of our core technologies."
Dolby's new 3-D technology is expected to be available in spring 2007. To date, more than 50 digital movies have been presented on more than 160 screens worldwide using Dolby Digital Cinema.
