"I believe 3D is how we will experience movies, gaming and computing in the near future," Cameron said, regarding his deal with Panasonic.  "We want to get global interest rolling," he continued.  "As a consumer electronics company, they are setting new standards in technology. Panasonic’s brilliance is demonstrated by their 3D presentation for the home.  I’ve had an opportunity to view Panasonic’s Full High Definition 3D technology first hand and it was remarkable."

The advertising deal makes sense as Cameron and Twentieth Century Fox Film prepare to release the movie "Avatar," a film that has been shot in 3D only.  Panasonic has rented several trailer-vans that will tour parts of the United States and Europe promoting the film, using a large-screen 3DTV on the outside of the van to show viewers trailer clips from "Avatar."

Even though several 3D animated films have been released in 3D only, "Avatar" will be the first live-action Hollywood movie to be released in 2D and 3D.

Although several other companies are working with 3D technology, including Sony, Samsung and others, there is a major issue that faces companies hoping to become involved in 3D.  There is no working agreement on broadcast or disc formats, which opens the door for a pricey format battle.

Last November, Panasonic submitted a proposal to the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) that would create guidelines for companies and studios using "left / right-eye two-channel Full HD images" on HDTVs with Blu-ray.  Furthermore, the company also created a 3D research lab in Hollywood, and gives researchers a place to develop 3D technology.

In the future, a 3D broadcast and disc format must be created -- and agreed upon -- by a majority of the companies, hopefully avoiding a content war.