3D Magic TV show Derren Brown - The 3D Magic Spectacular

Magicians: Derren Brown, Daniel Madison and many more

Channel 4 is to begin showing programmes in 3D within weeks as part of moves which could change the way people watch TV in the future. The channel will air a range of shows including footage of the Queen's Coronation and a new magic spectacular from Derren Brown using the technology. This comes amid growing optimism that the moves could help revolutionise British TV viewing after earlier attempts at 3D television failed to catch on.

Sky has already announced it is planning to launch Europe's first 3D TV channel next year that will require a special TV set. Channel 4 is using different technology which will mean people can view the more lifelike content on their normal televisions. Channel 4 will be giving away special glasses, with amber and blue lenses, in supermarkets ahead of the shows it has lined up for the project. Channel 4 itself will air a week of prime-time 3D content this autumn and if the move proves to be a success, it could become a regular feature on the channel.

Channel 4 has done a deal with Sainsbury's to stock the glasses for free in most of its major stores in the week before the programmes air. Those doing their supermarket shopping over the internet will also be handed a free pair when their shopping is delivered.

The highlight of Channel 4's week of 3D programmes will be two hour-long documentaries featuring footage of the Queen. One will show 3D colour newsreel of her Coronation in 1953 while a second will look at a Garter Ceremony at Windsor Castle earlier this summer. Illusionist Derren Brown's 3D Magic Spectacular will feature specially shot tricks from a range of magicians, plus archive 3D footage