BRISTOL, CONN. and SILVER SPRING, MD.: ESPN and Discovery have announced plans to launch 3D channels in the coming months. ESPN will go live with the first 3D network in the United States with the debut of ESPN 3D this summer. The sports network said it would go live with the network in time for the June 11 telecasts of the 2010 FIFA World Cup soccer matches.

ESPN said the network would do a minimum of 85 live sporting events in 3D during the first year. Other planned 3D coverage includes the 2011 BCS National Championship Game, college basketball and football contests, up to 25 World Cup matches and the Summer X Games. Additional events will be announced at a later date.

Discovery Communications, in partnership with Sony and IMAX, said it intends to launch a full-time 3D network some time next year, published reports indicate. Discovery will provide the provide network, sales and technical services as well as 3D rights to its content plus promotion on its suite of TV channels, The Wall Street Journal said. Sony will pitch in advertising and sponsorship and 3D rights to film and music content. IMAX will also provide licensing for future 3D films as well as patented image technology.