Apparently 3D stands for 3 dips, because that’s what it looks like it’s going to take to get “Avatar” on 3D Blu-ray.

According to the Los Angeles Times, “Avatar” will receive an initial bare-bones, movie-only release on DVD and Blu-ray on April 22.

The Los Angeles Times also cites “Fox sources” who say previous reports of a 3D version being released in 2010 are incorrect.

James Cameron, who postponed the making of “Avatar” in order for 3D technology to catch up, is waiting for the fledgling home 3D market to do the same before the 3D Blu-ray version will be released. A multi-disc set is planned for sometime in November 2010, says the Los Angeles Times.

In a small twist of irony, in order to coincide with Earth Day, the Smurfs-meet-Pocahontas eco-tale will be released on a Thursday instead of the traditional Tuesday release day.

Will the delay of the 3D Blu-ray version of “Avatar” stall 3D’s momentum? Will people actually drop more than $3,000 on a display/player/glasses knowing all they’ll be watching is “Monsters vs. Aliens” and “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs?”

Stephen Hopkins

Stephen Hopkins is chief technology editor for EH Publishing. He writes product reviews, features, and focuses heavily on 3D TV, iPhone and iPad apps, and digital content.