JJ Abrams' highly anticipated Star Trek sequel is set to be shown in 3D.

The follow-up to the hit first film in the rebooted franchise, which became a box office hit in 2009, is reported to be released in 2013, reported Deadline.

JJ, who is directing and co-writing the sequel with Lost's Damon Lindelof, was previously unsure about the idea, telling The Playlist: "I have nothing against 3D in theory. But I've also never run to the movies because something's in 3D.

"[As for Trek], as soon as I read the script, if it says, 'Somebody pushes a weapon toward the camera in a menacing way,' and we think, 'That'd be better in 3D!' I dunno."

Zoe Saldana, Zachary Quinto and Chris Pine will all return for the second instalment, with Chris starring as Captain James T Kirk, while Zoe and Zachary play members of his crew Uhura and Spock, who found love in the first film.

Anton Yelchin has confirmed he will return as navigator Chekov, and Simon Pegg is expected back as Scotty.

Benicio Del Toro is said to be in talks to play the villain.

Production is expected to start in early 2012.