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Netflix brings 3D, 'Super HD' video to some customers

The video streaming service adds a limited number of 3D movies to its library. The hitch? You can only access them if you've got an ISP that uses its Open Connect network.

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Desiree DeNunzio is the gift guide editor for CNET's Commerce team. When she's not writing and editing, she's either hiking through the redwoods or curled up with a good book and a lazy dog.
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Desiree DeNunzio
Netflix
After months of rumors, Netflix has finally announced a "Super HD" streaming option as well as a handful of 3D additions to its video library. Super HD is Netflix's higher-quality version of its standard 1080p HD format.

But there's a catch: Only Netflix customers who are signed up with ISPs that use Netflix's Open Connect network will have access to both Super HD and the new 3D titles. Netflix debuted Open Connect in June, saying it could lower costs and improve content delivery.

"Leading-edge ISPs around the world such as Cablevision, Virgin Media, British Telecom, Telmex, Telus, TDC, GVT, among many others, are already participating in Open Connect to provide the highest-possible quality Netflix service to consumers," Netflix Chief Reed Hastings said in a statement. "Our goal is to have all of our members served by Open Connect as soon as possible."

The company announced the new streaming options at CES today in Las Vegas. The 3D videos, which are only available in the U.S., include "Immortals," snowboarding documentary "The Art of Flight," and a variety of titles from 3net Studios.

Netflix said subscribers can check here to find out if their ISP is part of Open Connect.