SPECIAL AWESOME: stereoscopic resource

Glasses-free 3D LCD TVs Likely out by 2015

2011-09-18T09:55:00.000-07:00

By Dan Nystedt, IDG News May 28, 2010 2:30 am

Consumers will likely see 3D LCD TVs that don't require people to wear polarized glasses out on global markets by 2015, according to a Taiwanese research group that showed off an early version of such a device this week.

Taiwan's Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) displayed a 42-inch glasses-free 3D LCD TV this week, and the company can currently make them with screens as large as 65 inches, according to Stephen Jeng, director of ITRI's 3D System & Application Division.

The technology is considered vital to getting 3D into more people's living rooms. Analysts say most people don't want to wear polarized glasses to watch 3D TV, and many balk at the price, up to $200 per pair for some of the glasses. The high price might make a person think twice about hosting a World Cup or Super Bowl party with friends.

Jeng says ITRI's technology will be used in digital signs and 3D digital photo-frames initially. The main issues for glasses-free 3D TV are broadcasting, availability of content, and eye safety, he said. Small quantities of glasses-free digital signage and 3D photo frames are already available on the market, he said, but may yet take a year or two to take off.

The glasses-free 3D LCD TV on display from ITRI this week showed pictures of objects that ITRI's software converted into a 3D image. The image was blurry and the technology appears to still be a long way from being ready.

The research group is using parallax barrier technology to create the 3D effect on the TV. The TV was branded Chi Mei, from Chimei Innolux, but Jeng said the company gave ITRI a regular LCD TV to use for the show and that ITRI added its 3D technology to the set on display. Chimei Innolux is not making glasses-free 3D TVs.

A number of companies are working on glasses-free 3D TVs, mainly in Japan and South Korea.

The 3D TV concept took off early this year at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas as most major TV makers, including Samsung Electronics, showed off sets that are 3D-capable, meaning people can use them as regular high definition (2-dimensional) TVs or as 3D TVs.

The global 3D TV market this year will likely reach 6.2 million units, according to market researcher Displaybank, with sales growing to 33 million units by 2012.

http://www.pcworld.com/article/197422/glassesfree_3d_lcd_tvs_likely_out_by_2015.html

2 phones compete for emerging 3D mobile market share

2011-08-11T20:17:00.000-07:00

Here's an interesting new site: 3dphonereview.com

Currently they are announcing the new HTC EVO 3D and publishing a comparison between it and the LG 3D Optimus. Both run Android OS 2.3 - what we find interesting (exciting) is that there is a growing buzz and competition in this space as more and more products emerge and more and more critics, pundits, and consumers enter the fray.

and yet another viewing option... VUZIX eyewear

2011-08-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

Vuzix is now shipping their Wrap 1200 3Ds, a pair of $500 glasses (a headtracking model called the 1200VR is coming later this month) that displays a 75-inch virtual screen in front of your face and supports 3D content. You have separate focus settings for each each eye and these are as light and small as a standard pair of sunglasses.

The Vuzix 1200s also allow you to wear your own prescription lenses under the device.

I’ve used earlier Vuzix video glasses on flights before and, barring the dork-feel of wearing a pair of video glasses, the experience is fairly interesting and impressive. Now, however, with HD, 3D and a huge screen these things could, feasibly, replace a standard monitor in some situations.

The glasses include a pair of headphones for audio and you can buy optional DVI adapters and light shields as well as a head-position sensor for more advanced tricks like real-time VR. The future, as they say, is already here. It’s just not evenly distributed.

http://techcrunch.com/2011/08/11/vuzix-wrap-1200-3d-glasses-hang-a-75-inch-screen-in-front-of-your-nose/

Sony HDR-TD10 hits the market

2011-07-13T10:02:00.000-07:00

We've been watching the development of the consumer 3D camcorders for a while now. Panasonic were the first with a prototype and their entry into the market has been a long time coming now. Sony have quietly been developing their device as part of their stated commitment to 3D on all screens and platforms, now with the Sony 3d camcorder.

Sony HDR-TD10 3D camcorder

4.5 stars for new LG 3DTV with passive display system

2011-07-07T17:26:00.000-07:00

All I can say is: FINALLY.

At NAB when 3D was really new and all the rage there were all sorts of PASSIVE 3DTVs being shown - the models from JVC were amazing. It all looked bright and sunny for the future of 3D in the home, and then.... All the big electronics manufactures started bringing out ACTIVE 3D TV systems. Those of us in the know were aghast - the active shutter glass system is, and has always been inferior. The logic I believe, was that the active systems could be inexpensively retrofit to the new generation of high refresh sets, thus getting a jump on the 3D bandwagon without making it a vanity product with an unreasonable pricetag. This would (presumably) give them time to reduce the manufacturing costs of the superior passive system sets - passive is like you see in the RealD theaters - inexpensive lightweight plastic glasses with polarizing filters in each lens. Whatever the reasons were, we are finally emerging from the active systems days. This set of reviews show consumers' opinions of the new LG screen - and the feedback is excellent. A pricetag of $1600 is not bad either.

(link to consumer opinions) 4.5 STARS FOR LG 55LW5600

Nintendo 3DS video content

2011-07-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

(from the 3DS Wiki)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3ds#Video_content

Video content

The system also has 3D movie and video playback capability. Nintendo has made deals with Warner Bros, Disney, and DreamWorks to deliver 3D movies.[91] Although no titles have been announced yet, the trailers for DreamWorks' How to Train Your Dragon, Warner Bros' Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, and Disney’s film Tangled were shown on the 3DS during the E3 Expo.[92] On September 29, 2010, Nintendo of Japan announced that it will be partnering with Fuji TV and other Japanese broadcasters to distribute free 3D videos to Japanese Nintendo 3DS owners.[93][94] On January 19, 2011, Nintendo of Europe announced at their press conference that they will be partnering with EuroSport and Sky 3D to bring content to the Nintendo 3DS at a later date in 2011. Richard Goleszowski is also locked to bring exclusive 3D episodes of Shaun the Sheep to European Nintendo 3DS market by the end of the year. During the 2011 Game Developers Conference, Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime announced that the Nintendo 3DS will support live streaming from Netflix.[95] Also at the same conference, Nintendo announced a short-form video service for the Nintendo 3DS. This channel will offer a wide variety of video content, from comedy to music, all curated by Nintendo.[96] As part of an initial firmware update for the system, Nintendo 3DS systems in North America include the 3D version of the music video for "White Knuckles" from OK Go.[97]

Nintendo 3DS: Developers' Comments - E3 2010

2011-06-30T10:36:00.000-07:00

3D TV shipments to soar 500 percent in 2011

2011-05-18T15:07:00.000-07:00

More and more 3D TVs are on the way.

(Credit: Sarah Tew/CNET)

Televisions boasting 3D capabilities will be far more popular this year than last, market researcher In-Stat predicts.
According to an In-Stat report released today, 3D TV shipments will be up nearly 500 percent worldwide this year, compared with 2010. In-Stat also predicts that sometime soon all televisions with screen sizes of 40 inches and above will come with 3D functionality.
There are still barriers, though, the 3D TV expansion..
Last month, market researcher NPD Group released findings on consumer interest in 3D TVs. NPD found that 45 percent of people who won't buy a 3D TV cite price as the barrier and 42 percent say its the special 3D glasses.
Perhaps of more concerns for 3D TV makers, those figures are up. According to the NPD, last year 37 percent of people who won't buy a 3D TV pointed to price and 32 percent blamed the glasses.
But as In-Stat's study has found, consumers may not have much of a choice. Vendors are continuing to add 3D capability, especially to bigger-screen sets. And if folks want bigger screens, they will soon get 3D capability whether they seek it or not.
In 2015, In-Stat predicts, a whopping 300 million households worldwide will have 3D TV sets.

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13506_3-20063521-17.html

T-Mobile announces Galaxy S 4G and 3D-capable G-Slate tablet

2011-02-11T02:04:00.000-08:00

Watch this years mobile congress in Barcelona this weekend for all the manufacturers to announce their new hardware offerings. While there are sure to be some 3D surprises, T-Mobile and LG have pre-announced their 3D tablet the G-Slate (Android / T-mobile).

http://venturebeat.com/2011/02/01/galaxy-s-4g-g-slate/

NY POST 3D channel

2011-02-10T08:52:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is: the partnership between Sony, IMax, and Discovery is going live as 3net this Sunday.

http://m.nypost.com/p/blogs/thespread/hour_channel_set_to_launch_sunday_Wsx2aQQxs8R6fJJQjvd5DJ

LG 3D smartphone

2011-01-27T10:43:00.000-08:00

LG are hosting a VERY interesting event in Barcelona on Valentines day. Followers of this tech trend ought to pay attention...

http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-19736_7-20029669-251.html

Nvidia 3D mobile

2011-01-27T10:39:00.000-08:00

Everyone who is following the trends in 3D, particularly auto-stereoscopic (glasses free) knows that 3D mobile devices are coming soon in a big way. Full story:
http://www.pcworld.com/article/217477/nvidia_prepping_for_3d_mobile_revolution.html

Toshiba glasses free 3D laptop

2011-01-07T14:25:00.000-08:00

(from techland at time.com)

Toshiba's leading the charge into glasses-free 3D. The company is showcasing both glasses-free 3D TVs and laptops here at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, and while true glasses-free 3D TV is still more than a year from hitting the market, the glasses-free 3D laptops will be available later this year.
I'm still not sold on 3D quite yet, mostly because of the lack of available content and the price premiums applied to 3D-capable products. The premise of not having to use glasses is compelling, too, but it'd be nice to see prices fall as 3D content becomes more commonplace.
Toshiba's impending glasses-free 3D laptop is sufficiently impressive if you're in the market for such a product. While most glasses-free 3D technology has so far relied on the user staying dead-center in front of the screen for the feature to work, Toshiba has taken the novel approach of using the laptop's built-in webcam to track the position of your eyeballs and adjust the delivery of the 3D content you're watching accordingly. (More on Techland: CES: Buying a Tablet? Wait Until Spring (or Later))
The result is a viewing angle of about 15 to 20 percent—still pretty narrow, but much better than having to keep your head perfectly aligned with the screen. There are a few drawbacks, most notably that only one person can watch at a time and the 3D effect isn't quite up to snuff with what you'd experience wearing 3D glasses.
But while the idea of glasses-free 3D TV seems to present more of a challenge for users—people generally move around and sit in different angles when watching TV—the promise of glasses-free 3D laptops ought to be a much easier sell. If you're going to watch a 3D movie or play a 3D game on your laptop, you're probably going to devote your full attention to it and you'll be sitting right in front of the screen.
Toshiba's glasses-free 3D laptops will be available later in the year, though pricing and more detailed availability information are still a while away.

Reportlinker Adds 3D in Mobile Devices: 3D Adoption Will Be Highest in Smartphone, Handheld Gaming, and Tablet PC Markets

2010-12-13T13:28:00.001-08:00

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, Dec. 9, 2010

NEW YORK, Dec. 9, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report is available in its catalogue:
3D in Mobile Devices: 3D Adoption Will Be Highest in Smartphone, Handheld Gaming, and Tablet PC Markets
http://www.reportlinker.com/p0337910/3D-in-Mobile-Devices-3D-Adoption-Will-Be-Highest-in-Smartphone-Handheld-Gaming-and-Tablet-PC-Markets.html
The majority of today's 3D efforts are aimed at the cinema and in the home. A wide range of 3DTVs are available from major CE manufacturers like Panasonic, Samsung, and Sony, and the amount of 3D programming is increasing. The next likely application for 3D technology is in mobile devices. The market for 3D-enabled mobile devices will be limited over the next year, due mainly to a lack of 3D mobile content and the increase in technology costs necessary to incorporate 3D into mobile devices. However, the market is poised to take off in 2012, and then reach approximately 60 million units by 2014.
In-Stat's latest research is one of the first reports to discuss the opportunities for 3D in mobile devices. It will include a discussion on key 3D technology suppliers, as well as the different types of 3D technology available today. This research will also include worldwide shipment forecasts for smartphones, handheld game consoles, tablet PCs, notebook PCs, digital photo frames, and portable media players, and include In-Stat's expectations for what percent of those mobile device markets will be 3D-enabled. Finally, an in-depth discussion on key market drivers and challenges for 3D mobile devices is included.
Executive Summary
List of Tables
List of Figures
Introduction
3D Technology
Stereoscopic: 3D With Glasses (S-3D)
Polarized 3D Glasses
Eclipsed Method
Interference Filter Technology
Passive Glasses System
Active Glasses System
Autostereoscopic: Glasses-Free 3D (AS-3D)
Lenticular Viewing
Panel System
Camera 3D
Cylinder Method
Conclusion: Stereoscopic vs. Autostereoscopic in Mobile Devices
Company Profiles
Movidius
Myriad
NVIDIA
3D Vision
Texas Instruments
OMAP (Open Multimedia Application Platform)
Sharp Corporation
Qualcomm
Forecasts
3D Mobile Device Market Size
Tablets
Smartphones
Handheld Gaming
Notebook PCs
Other
Market Drivers
Continued Development in Autostereoscopic 3D
Studios Push 3D Into Homes
3D Gaming
3D Programming and Distribution to the Home
Market Barriers
Lack of 3D Content for Mobile Devices
2D-to-3D Conversion
Technology Costs
Conclusion
Methodology
Related In-Stat Reports
List of Tables
Table 1. Worldwide Shipment Summary of 3D-Enabled Mobile Devices, 2010 to 2014
Table 2. Percentage That Each Mobile Device Segment Represents of the Worldwide 3D Mobile Market, 2010 to 2014
Table 3. Worldwide Shipments of 3D-Enabled Tablets, 2009 to 2014
Table 4. Worldwide Shipments of 3D-Enabled Mobile Phones, 2009 to 2014
Table 5. Worldwide Shipments of 3D-Enabled Handheld Game Consoles, 2009 to 2014
Table 6. Worldwide Shipments of 3D-Enabled Notebook PCs, 2009 to 2014
Table 7. A Summary of the Top Three Mobile Device Markets That Will Incorporate 3D
List of Figures
Figure 1. Worldwide Shipments of 3D-Enabled Mobile Devices, 2009 to 2014
Figure 2. Worldwide Shipments of 3D-Enabled Mobile Devices by Device, 2010 to 2014
To order this report:
Personal Computer and Server Industry: 3D in Mobile Devices: 3D Adoption Will Be Highest in Smartphone, Handheld Gaming, and Tablet PC Markets
Personal Computer and Server Business News
More Market Research Report
Check our Company Profile, SWOT and Revenue Analysis!

Contact Nicolas Bombourg
Reportlinker
Email: nbo@reportlinker.com
US: (805)652-2626
Intl: +1 805-652-2626

SOURCE Reportlinker

Apple patents glasses free 3D projection

2010-12-02T17:05:00.000-08:00

This from Information week:

By Esther Shein , InformationWeek

December 2, 2010 03:14 PM

Apple has been granted a patent on a system it is developing to project a 3D image that can be viewed without glasses.

Multiple people can view the 3D content simultaneously and maintain the image even as they move around a room. A constant watch would be kept on the viewer's position and movement by the proposed device, which would work by changing its projection angle. That way, the eyes continue to receive the correct images.

The patent application, filed in 2006, maintains there is an "urgent need is for an unobtrusive 3D viewing device that combines feedback for optimizing the viewing experience in combination with provisions for 3D user input, thus enabling viewing and manipulation of virtual 3D objects in 3D space without the need for special viewing goggles or headgear."

The primary goal of the patent is to deliver "inexpensive auto-stereoscopic 3D displays that allow the observer complete and unencumbered freedom of movement." Apple further stated in its application that neither active nor passive 3D glasses have received widespread acceptance "because observers generally do not like to wear equipment over their eyes. In addition, such approaches are impractical, and essentially unworkable, for projecting a 3D image to one or more casual passersby, to a group of collaborators, or to an entire audience such as when individuated projections are desired."

original post: http://www.informationweek.com/news/global-cio/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=228500195

Mobile Video to Explode in next few years

2010-12-02T15:57:00.000-08:00

From the 1st annual mobile entertainment summit comes this startling comparative market pie: Mobile Video is predicted to become an $18.2 Billion industry by 2013 - roughly equaling the ($19.2B) mobile music industry and outpacing the enormous ($9.9B) Mobile Gaming industry by close to 2:1.

Given the many autostereoscopic mobile devices coming to market, it seems that a lot of this market will certainly be 3D. The data come from Portio Research who offer a lot of free content for mobile industry projections here: http://www.portioresearch.com/resources.html

Mobile entertainment summit site here: http://www.lamobilesummit.net/attending.html

Provision 3D Media

2010-11-17T16:36:00.000-08:00

<p>&amp;amp;lt;iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=spst05-20&amp;amp;amp;amp;o=1&amp;amp;amp;amp;p=8&amp;amp;amp;amp;l=bpl&amp;amp;amp;amp;asins=B002IFUQPO&amp;amp;amp;amp;fc1=000000&amp;amp;amp;amp;IS2=1&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt1=_blank&amp;amp;amp;amp;m=amazon&amp;amp;amp;amp;lc1=0000FF&amp;amp;amp;amp;bc1=000000&amp;amp;amp;amp;bg1=FFFFFF&amp;amp;amp;amp;f=ifr" style="padding-top: 5px; width: 131px; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" align="left"&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=spst05-20&amp;amp;amp;amp;o=1&amp;amp;amp;amp;p=8&amp;amp;amp;amp;l=bpl&amp;amp;amp;amp;asins=B003V8H49S&amp;amp;amp;amp;fc1=000000&amp;amp;amp;amp;IS2=1&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt1=_blank&amp;amp;amp;amp;m=amazon&amp;amp;amp;amp;lc1=0000FF&amp;amp;amp;amp;bc1=000000&amp;amp;amp;amp;bg1=FFFFFF&amp;amp;amp;amp;f=ifr" style="padding-top: 5px; width: 131px; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" align="left"&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=spst05-20&amp;amp;amp;amp;o=1&amp;amp;amp;amp;p=8&amp;amp;amp;amp;l=bpl&amp;amp;amp;amp;asins=B003XREDVE&amp;amp;amp;amp;fc1=000000&amp;amp;amp;amp;IS2=1&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt1=_blank&amp;amp;amp;amp;m=amazon&amp;amp;amp;amp;lc1=0000FF&amp;amp;amp;amp;bc1=000000&amp;amp;amp;amp;bg1=FFFFFF&amp;amp;amp;amp;f=ifr" style="padding-top: 5px; width: 131px; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" align="left"&amp;amp;gt;</p>
Check these guys out - holographic displays integrated into point of purchase and kiosk applications.

CHATSWORTH, CA, Nov 17, 2010 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- Provision Interactive Technologies, Inc. ("Provision"), a subsidiary of Provision Holding , announced today that it has been named the recipient of Frost & Sullivan's 2010 North American New Product Innovation of the Year Award for 3D Holographic Displays. The Award was presented at the 2010 Best Practices Awards banquet on November 16 in San Antonio, Texas.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/provision-3d-displays-named-2010-new-product-innovation-of-the-year-by-frost-sullivan-2010-11-17?reflink=MW_news_stmp

http://www.provision.tv/

Sharp to Bring Glasses-Free 3D Android Smartphone to U.S. Soil

2010-11-17T16:17:00.000-08:00

After having launched three Android smartphones through carriers in the Japanese markets that employ 3D screen technology that doesn’t require the use of special glasses, Sharp is said to be bringing at least one of those models to the U.S. market and will also be targeting China and India.

http://www.gottabemobile.com/2010/11/17/sharp-to-bring-glasses-free-3d-android-smartphone-to-u-s-soil/

Nokia Research Center

2010-11-12T10:00:00.000-08:00

Nokia are (if you didn't know) the world's largest cellphone manufacturer. From their research center comes a very interesting whitepaper and code regarding their MVC codec optimized for H.264 dual stream (stereoscopic) video. Because it utilizes the H.264 standard the platform is backwards compatible with 2D (H.264) video as well as being applicable to all 3D devices, not just Nokia or mobile. Very cool stuff.

http://research.nokia.com/page/4988

ESPN Announces Results of Comprehensive 3D Study

2010-11-11T12:31:00.000-08:00

November 4, 2010 - Continuing to innovate in the 3D television space, ESPN Research + Analytics unveiled today one of the most in-depth studies on 3D TV to date. Compiling results from more than 1,000 testing sessions and 2,700 lab hours, ESPN has concluded that fans are comfortable with the medium and even enjoy it more than programming in HD.

The research was conducted by Dr. Duane Varan, professor of New Media at Murdoch University, during ESPN’s coverage of the 2010 FIFA World Cup at the Disney Media and Ad Lab in Austin, Texas. The research employed an experimental design approach including the use of perception analyzers, eye gaze and electrodermal activity. The study focused on a multitude of topics including overall viewing enjoyment, fatigue and novelty effects, technology differences, production issues and advertising impact. In all over 700 measures were processed during the testing. The Ad Lab used five different 3D manufacturers in its testing.

“The results from this comprehensive research project support what we have said time and time again – fans have a higher level of enjoyment when viewing 3D. Plus, for advertisers, this study provides good news on the level of fan engagement when viewing 3D ads,” said Artie Bulgrin, senior vice president of ESPN Research + Analytics. “This study will help us continue to develop ESPN 3D as an industry leader for event-based 3D viewing.”

Key Findings:

3D TV ads can be more effective

In testing the Ad Lab showed viewers the same ads in 2D and 3D. 3D ads produced significantly higher scores across all ad performance metrics – generally maintaining a higher level of arousal than the 2D counterpart.
Participants showed better recall of the ad in 3D:
- Cued recall went from 68% to 83%
- On average, purchase intent increased from 49% to 83%
- Ad liking went from 67% to 84

Fans enjoy 3D

The results showed a higher level of viewer enjoyment, engagement with the telecast and a stronger sense of presence with the 3D telecasts.
Enjoyment increased from 65% to 70% in 3D while presence went from 42% to 69%

Passive vs. Active

With all things equal, there were no major differences between passive and active 3D TV sets for overall impact however, passive glasses were rated as more comfortable and less distracting by participants.

Depth Perception

The study found that there were no adverse effects on depth perception (stereopsis).
It appeared that there is an acclimation effect whereby participants adjust to 3D over time under normal use.

True 3D vs. 2D

Participants showed much more favorable responses to true 3D images than to 2D.

About the ESPN 3D Research Study

Conducted over the course of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, this is one of the most ambitious studies of 3D viewing to date. Participants were tested prior to 3D viewing, in test and post test to garner a wide range of information. Testing was completed at the Disney Media & Advertising Lab which was developed to better understand the emotional drivers of audience behavior and physiological reactions to advertising. The facility conducts year-round tests using the most advanced research techniques including biometric measurement tolls to evaluate engagement and emotional responses. This research was conducted by Professor Duane Varan, Executive Director and Chief Research Officer of the Disney Media & Advertising Lab, and his staff. Varan is recognized as a global innovator in iTV applied research and as one of the foremost authorities on new media. He is the Executive Director of the Interactive Television Research Institute and holds the inaugural chair in New Media at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia.

ESPN 3D Media Kit here:
http://www.espnmediazone3.com/us/media-kits/espn-3d/

Related Releases (ESPN 3D):
http://www.espnmediazone3.com/us/tag/espn-3d/

ESPN 3D Fact Sheet:
http://www.espnmediazone3.com/us/media-kits/espn-3d/espn-3d-fact-sheet/

ESPN 3D Schedule:
http://www.espnmediazone3.com/us/programming/espn-3d-livesame-day-tape-event-schedule/

ESPN 3D Photo Gallery:
http://espnmediazone3.com/rs/?c=1027&k=265d176316

ESPN 3D Study:
http://www.espnmediazone3.com/us/2010/11/3d-study/

3D for the iPhone and iPad

2010-11-09T09:06:00.000-08:00

AU Optronics 3D display technology:

AU Optronics - maker of the touchscreens in iPhones and iPads, announced a lot of extremely exciting new products to be showcased at FPD International in Japan from November 10-12. Included are:
the world's largest 71" 21:9 CSHD 3D TV LCD panel;
a 65" QFHD 4K2K lenticular lens 3D panel;
a 65" pattern retarder 3D LCD TV panel with video game applications;
deadzone-free 15.6" notebook panels and deadzone-free 10.1" tablet PC naked eye 3D panels;
and a 4" 3D interactive touch panel for smartphones.

Sharp Providing 3D Cameras For Mobile Devices

2010-11-07T17:18:00.000-08:00

Another aspect of the coming 3D mobile revolution - Sharp show off their 3D mobile camera technology including a prototype for the iPhone 4.
http://www.mobilecrunch.com/2010/09/02/sharp-providing-3d-cameras-for-mobile-devices/

Panasonic 3DA1 demo video from DV expo

2010-11-05T10:56:00.000-07:00

full article form gigaom.com here:

http://gigaom.com/video/video-the-panasonic-ag-3da1-3-d-camera-in-action/

3DS audience hands on reaction

2010-11-03T17:33:00.000-07:00

This is really impressive - from Nintendo E3 network

you have to click through manually from the home page (no embed code available):

http://e3.nintendo.com/3ds/

on the right side click on VIDEOS
then choose AUDIENCE REACTIONS TO THE NEW NINTENDO 3DS

...and a cool article about how Hollywood feels about this revolutionary device:

http://www.electronista.com/articles/10/11/10/hollywood.developers.excited.about.nintendo.3ds/

Autostereoscopic Digital Signage

2010-10-26T22:15:00.000-07:00

We believe that the explosion of 3D technology in virtually every venue you can imagine is not only imminent but inevitable. Take a look at what is percolating under the surface of this gigantic worldwide industry...

http://www.digitalsignageexpo.net/DigitalSignageExpo/PreConferenceEvents/3DWorkshops.aspx

Not just sports and movies any more...

2010-10-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

Nice to see the things we've been predicting coming to fruition. It has seemed obvious to us for a few years, that anything which involves people performing is very appropriate for 3D. All you have to do is see the NFL in 3D on a big screen to verify this.

In the future we will see all sorts of remote viewing of all sorts of amazing things, live in 3D. Imagine seeing something far away which you couldn't otherwise attend in person, produced like a live sporting event with multiple cameras and dynamic directing. Cirque Du Soliel? Royal Shakespeare? Opera from Milan?

http://www.diefantastischenvier.de/
http://gigaom.com/video/35000-watch-worlds-first-live-3-d-concert/

Report: 50 Million 3DTV Shipments by 2015

2010-10-06T21:33:00.000-07:00

By : Erik Gruenwedel | Posted: 06 Oct 2010
egruenwedel@questex.com

The worldwide 3DTV market is projected to surge by 2013 resulting in unit shipments approaching 50 million by 2015, according to a new report.

ABI Research in Scottsdale, Ariz., said ongoing popularity of 3D movies in the theaters coupled with increased 3D Blu-ray title selections and consumers in the market for a new TV will drive growth. The 3D format is seen as the next step in packaged media and a driver for the continued rollout of Blu-ray technology, including as a conduit for Web-based content.

“The 3D TV market is moving faster than expected,” said ABI analyst Michael Inouye. “There was widespread skepticism that production models would be available so quickly. But by June this year, many TV manufacturers had 3D models in their lineups. Most 3D TVs will be Internet-connected.”

The report cautions that 3D programming ultimately will be selective as the theatrical 3D experience doesn’t always translate well to the smaller screen. Specifically, Inouye said, some sports programming featuring wide fields and big stadiums don’t lend themselves to 3D. The analyst said video games in 3D make “a lot of sense,” considering the huge installed base of game consoles and that both the Xbox 360 and the PS3 are capable of supporting 3D content – the latter also supporting 3D Blu-ray.

Other challenges include that premium prices are attached to 3DTVs, Blu-ray player compatibility and that active infrared glasses required for most 3D technology can vary by TV manufacturer.

“Everything looks good in HD, but not everything looks better in 3D,” said analyst Jason Blackwell said. “Content producers should be selective about what titles they assign to 3D production release.”

http://www.homemediamagazine.com/3-d/report-50-million-3dtv-shipments-2015-20787

Jeffrey Katzenberg Calls 3D the "Opportunity of a Lifetime"

2010-10-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

This is long and very worth it - one of the visionary leaders of the industry sheds a lot of light on many aspects of our business:

New 3D Android Phone Won't Require Glasses

2010-10-04T08:51:00.000-07:00

re-posted from:

http://pocketnow.com/android/new-3d-android-phone-wont-require-glasses

After Sharp had announced that the company would be bringing a 3D phone to the market without the need for active shutter or passive 3D glasses, a trio of companies have partnered to show off a 3D Android prototype at the GTC 2010 conference. NVIDIA, rumored to provide the concept phone with a Tegra processor, has teamed up with Scaleform and Master Image, to show off a concept that could make it to launch in the latter half of 2011. According to Android and Me, which was present at GTC, it was the "best glasses-free 3D" experience and that the video, re-posted below, doesn't do the technology any justice. With 3D on a phone without the need for glasses, a whole new dimension of Android games could come to Android Market.

(via: PhoneArena and Android and Me)

Panasonic don't slow down or disappoint

2010-10-01T12:34:00.000-07:00

Below is the release from this yeras NAB - and today they announced this camera is available and shipping!

take a look:

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 11, 2010) – Panasonic Solutions Company showcased its new AG-3DA1, the world’s first* professional quality, fully-integrated Full HD 3D camcorder offering SD media card recording. Panasonic is offering video professionals the opportunity to reserve their AG-3DA1 camcorder (list price: $21,000) by placing a non-refundable $1,000 deposit with Panasonic. Details of the program and sales contact information are now available by calling (201) 348-5300 or e-mailing pbtsinfo@us.panasonic.com.**

Panasonic booth (#C3712) visitors will be able to view 3D video content shot with the 3DA1 during show hours. Also on display will be Panasonic’s recently announced BT-3DL2550, a 25” professional-quality 3D LCD monitor for field use, and the AG-HMX100, a professional HD digital AV mixer for live 3D event production.

At less than 6.6 pounds, the AG-3DA1 is equipped with dual lenses and two 1/4.1-inch full 1920 x 1080 2.07-megapixel 3-MOS imagers to record 1080/60i, 50i, 30p, 25p and 24p (native) and 720/60p and 50p in AVCHD. It can record for up to 180 minutes on dual 32GB SD cards in Panasonic’s professional AVCHD PH mode, and offers professional interfaces including dual HD-SDI out, HDMI (version 1.4), two XLR connectors, built-in stereo microphone and twin-lens camera remotes. It is also equipped with remote terminal for focus iris, zoom, REC start/stop and convergence point. Its 3.2-inch LCD screen provides the option to switch from Left, Right or overlay image display.

Panasonic 1st USA available products have impressive sales

2010-09-22T16:14:00.000-07:00

Panasonic have been 1st out of the gate with 3D TV and Blu Ray players and for those of us interested in 3D the news could not be better. The company has announced that it sold out its initial order of 3D sets, and consumer reports have written that their offerings are superior to the competition.

http://www.zdnet.com/blog/home-theater/panasonic-looks-to-be-early-winner-in-3d-sales-image-quality/2927?tag=btxcsim

...and Toshiba too...

2010-09-21T16:07:00.000-07:00

Well, this certainly hasn't taken long. It was such a short time ago that people were asking and speculating about 3DTV WITH glasses... a short time later the amazing results (particularly from JVC) were being criticized because of the glasses.. and now the autostereoscopic displays are coming up everywhere.

Toshiba's 21" YES - that's TWENTY ONE INCH! is covered here on ZDNET:

http://www.zdnet.com/blog/gadgetreviews/toshiba-mobile-display-announces-21-3d-auto-stereoscopic-hdtv/14156

Cool video - take a look!

2010-09-20T15:54:00.000-07:00

Korean 3D device genius Dr. Seung H. Lee interviewed by 3DGUY.tv at Dimension 3.

He shows some cool functioning mobile devices - yes its is real, happning now, and WORKS.

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x9sxcg_3d-mobile_shortfilms

Still skeptical?

2010-09-20T11:07:00.000-07:00

Dorothy Pomerantz (show me the money) columnist from none other than Forbes magazine with Michael Lewis of RealD in a very measured and thoughtful conversation about the future of 3D:

http://blogs.forbes.com/dorothypomerantz/2010/09/20/michael-lewis-of-reald-on-why-3-d-is-here-to-stay/

Intel & Nokia partner for 3D mobile interfaces

2010-09-19T15:48:00.000-07:00

Well, this is is quite nerdy for those of you interested in actually digging deep into the details. What is important is that 2 of the largest hardware manufacturers (Nokia are at the top of the worldwide mobile device market BTW) and of course the enormously powerful Intel are involved.

http://www.anandtech.com/show/3864/mobile-3d-virtual-worlds-intel-nokia-and-university-of-oulu

Philips 21:9 HDTV receives rave reviews

2010-09-15T15:39:00.000-07:00

With its cool features like ABILIGHT and LOCAL DIMMING - not to mention 3D - this new 58" cinema display is the 400hz 3DHDTV we've been waiting for - already available in in Europe for about $5,000 we can only hope they release it here soon.

http://www.electricpig.co.uk/2010/09/02/philips-cinema-219-platinum-series-3d-tv-outed/

Philips glasses free HDTV

2010-09-14T15:30:00.000-07:00

Here it is - glasses free 3D television. While this article isn't particularly impressed with the depth vs. glasses experiences, what is important is that it works! The quality will only improve. It's exciting that major electronics manufacturers like Philips are putting big research dollars into creating truly revolutionary advancements.

video here:

http://www.viddler.com/explore/engadget/videos/1786/

article here:

http://hdtvorg.co.uk/news/articles/2010090301.htm

Sharp mobile 3D device

2010-09-12T15:27:00.000-07:00

Sharps new 3D phone unveiled. 3.7" lcd screen with 800 x 480 with camera.

look here:
http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/02/sharp-shows-off-mobile-prototype-with-3d-screen-3d-camera-and/

Hitachi Wooo video

2010-04-07T17:08:00.000-07:00

cool video showing off the Wooo from the inquirer:

Hitachi 3D mobile tips up

Video No glasses required for stereoscopic display

By Ian Williams

http://www.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/1597252/hitachi-3d-mobile-tips

3D projectors for consumers

2010-02-12T17:21:00.000-08:00

Acer- makers fo the first 3D laptop, have announced a 3D projector for the home. At XGA resolution it's not exactly an oh-my-god type of unit but it certainly foreshadows whats to come.

check it here:

http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/11/acers-3d-home-automation-ready-s5200-projector-now-available/

LG have a model with similar specs:

http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/06/lg-reveals-full-hd-3d-projector-skype-enabled-hdtvs-and-more-at/

UPDATE: stylin' 3D specs..

2010-02-10T15:03:00.000-08:00

Remember how we spread the rumor from last years 3D Entertainment Summit about 3rd party 3D specs? Well... here you go:

http://www.itechdiary.com/gunnar-3d-glasses-3d-glasses-that-not-make-the-wearer-look-strange.html

Samsung's new 3D display

2010-02-05T14:58:00.000-08:00

Samsung's new 3D display was unveiled at this years CES. Ranging in sizes from 19" - 65" the real dimensional WOW is this: its 1/3 of an inch thick (thin)...

Lots more cool details about the 'large touch screen remote - which shows live tv' to more about Samsung's strategy for 3D and all the devices they are developing - here at wired.com:

http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2010/01/samsungs-impossibly-thin-3d-tv-tempts-hollywood-producer/

ESPN 3D

2010-02-03T14:53:00.000-08:00

ESPN have announced a 3D component to their broadcasts stating this year. They promise a minimum of 85 events including the World cup and next years X-games.

Here's the USA Today article:

http://www.usatoday.com/money/media/2010-01-05-espn-3d-network_N.htm

3D mobile

2010-01-21T13:58:00.000-08:00

The cool thing about 3D on small screens i.e. cel phones, digial picture viewers like the Fuji Film unit (and we hope the new mobile tv devices like flow tv), is that the combination of a single viewer and a small image makes determining a 'sweet spot' for glasses free viewing possible. This is fantastic for 3D - it allows our media to appear in many more venues making it a true media-type rather than just a specialty only for the big screen / glasses required experience.

3M is at the forefront of this technology and there is a great article on their Vikuti film here on geek.com:

http://www.geek.com/articles/mobile/new-3m-optical-film-makes-3d-on-mobiles-simple-without-glasses-2009108/

This is good too:

http://www.cellular-news.com/story/37502.php

Sony 3D Blu-ray player announced

2010-01-16T13:34:00.000-08:00

The much anticipated Blu-ray standard for 3D was completed by SMPTE in December and Sony, with their strong focus on 3D in the home (they've officially announced this as a company strategy specifically applying to their Playstation 3, Vaio laptops, and Bravia displays among others) - are 1st on the scene with their 3D Blu-ray player.

here's an article from Crunch Gear:

http://www.crunchgear.com/2010/02/10/the-sony-bdp-s470-is-ready-for-blu-ray-3d/

Europe's 1st 3D stop-motion feature

2010-01-09T13:40:00.000-08:00

Artefacto Productions in Santiago De Compostela Spain are producing a stop-motion feature in stereoscopic 3D based on the walk of saints (The Saint James way) - the 1000 year tradition of making a pilgimage to the wonderful cathedral in Santiago.

The film is directed by Fernando Cortizo, and featuring the voice talents of Carlos Blanco, Jorge Sanz, and Paul Naschy, as well as music by Phillip Glass.

O Apostolo tells the story of a thief who escapes from jail and returns to a remote village where he had previously hidden his loot. Complications ensue when he discovers that the the town is controlled by a corrupt priest and a sacred company of soul hungry spirits. This film is scheduled to premiere in July 2010.

Special Awesome's very own Colin Miller is the films stereoscopic consultant and visual effects supervisor.

Check out the cool designs at their site:

http://www.oapostolo.es/

SA 3D rig at the Reno air races

2009-11-21T08:07:00.000-08:00

Stereoscope were up in Reno NV the other day shooting the air races with our 3D rig. Here are some pix of the setup with Red One cameras and the rig on a crane. Can't wait to see the footage.

Stereoscope - http://www.estreo3d.tv/v2/

http://swissrig.com/

Here's the press relase for the movie:

- The Company Goes From Sea to Sky with Its First Non-Aquatic Film
- Principal 3D Photography Begins this Week in Reno

Los Angeles (CA) and London (UK) -- Sept. 14, 2009 / PRNEWSWIRE / 3D Entertainment is pleased to announce today that it has acquired the distribution rights for "Air Racers 3D: Forces of Flight," produced by Los Angeles-based Pretend Entertainment and Stereoscope. Through the eyes of first-time competitor and rookie pilot Steve Hinton Jr., son of champion air racer and acrobatic pilot Steve Hinton, the film will chronicle the preparation for and competition in the world's fastest motor sport: the legendary Reno National Championship Air Races. The film will fly into IMAX® 3D and 2D Theatres in the US beginning in Fall 2010.

"Just eight days after announcing our first acquisition for IMAX® 3D Theatres, 'Sea Rex 3D,' we are extremely pleased to add this exciting new film, which will be the first non-aquatic title in our film catalogue, to our 2010 lineup," said Francois Mantello, Chairman and CEO of 3D Entertainment Distribution. "Projected on the world's largest screens, 'Air Racers 3D's unique giant screen filmmaking style will put every moviegoer and motorsports fan in the middle of the highly competitive action, and at more than twice the speed of a NASCAR race."

"We are thrilled to have reached a distribution agreement with the passionate team at 3D Entertainment," said Christian Fry, co-owner of Pretend Entertainment and the film's producer. "With 'Air Racers 3D' audiences worldwide will explore what are unquestionably the fastest-moving machines in motorsports and experience what it feels like to race at 500 mph a mere 50 feet off the ground. Pilots fight for position, running a tight 8-mile course marked off by ten giant pylons where flying a perfect line is critical for victory. Under these extreme conditions, it takes only a single miscalculation or mechanical failure to impact the entire field of planes with potentially catastrophic results."

Principal photography on "Air Racers 3D: Forces of Flight" begins this week during the 46th annual National Championship Air Races, which will take place at the Reno Stead Airfield from September 16-20. Ultra high definition 3D cameras will be used for the very first time to capture the drama, sound, emotion, thrills and excitement of the race.

"Air Racers: Forces of Flight" will follow 22-year-old Steve Hinton in his attempt to become the youngest air race pilot ever to compete in the 'Unlimited Class', the most anticipated event, which has always been dominated by pilots with decades more experience. The film will also focus on the science of today's air racing technology, human physiology, neurology and the underlying physics that pilots depend on to take turns at the highest speeds while skillfully maneuvering within inches of their flying competitors.

Air racing is a tradition that started nearly 100 years ago with World War I-era barnstormers that eventually evolved into the grand racing events organized to celebrate the aviation heroics of World War II. The last of their kind, the Reno Air Races began in 1964 as a revival of these high-speed competitions celebrating horsepower, ingenuity and piloting skills of the men who operated these planes under much more dangerous and dire circumstances. For one week every September, the high desert north of Reno becomes home to hundreds of aircraft, their pilots, and crews. "Fly low, go fast and turn left" is their motto.

"Air Racers: Forces of Flight" is produced by Pretend Entertainment and Stereoscope in association with the Reno Air Racing Association. Roger Tonry, known for his extensive experience in aerial and aviation photography, will direct. Christian Fry and Bernie Laramie will serve as producers with John Constantine, Raul Leckie and Jeffery Pierce as executive producers. The official film website is http://www.AirRacers3D.com

source: http://www.bigmoviezone.com/articles/index.html?uniq=381

FUJI FINEPIX REAL 3D W1

2009-11-08T12:04:00.000-08:00

FUJI FINEPIX REAL 3D W1

Cool new find - check this baby out:

http://www.fujifilm.com/products/3d/viewer/finepix_real3dv1/

Its a consumer digital still camera that shoots 3D. It requires a 3D viewer - the FUJI FINEPIX REAL 3D V1 for glasses free (parallax barrier type) - a fancy way of saying lenticular...
Maximum resolution is 3648 x 2736 - given this aspect ratio this must mean PER EYE. It also claims to do 3D movies at 640 x 480.

MSRP for the camera is $599.95 - the 3D digital viewer will go for $499.95.
I am sure going to get one of these soon and a review will be coming.

Sony Playstation3 3D

2009-11-07T22:08:00.000-08:00

2010 firmware update will enable the Sony PS3
to play 3D games on any 3D television.

This will be a huge boost for 3D in the home. Sony have announced an affordable (active) flat panel, and 1 in 4 gamers surveyed responded that 3D was "must have" technology. The active monitor approach is huge because it will open the market for 120hz displays to console gamers, paving the way for xBox and Wii 3D as well as putting pressure on the high priced passive screens from JVC, Panasonic, Hyundai et all.

Not only that, but (in case you didn't know) the PS3 also has a Blu-Ray player...

MUST BE SEEN Youtube - interview with Sony's display product manager:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12aM9p8N_hQ&feature=related

Lots of chatter in the gaming world:
http://playstation.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/sony-teases-3d-ps3-tech-at-ces/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0MP95OCtdg
http://www.gamespot.com/news/6217068.html?sid=6217068∂=rss&subj=6217068

Apple 3D Projection Patent

2009-11-06T19:11:00.000-08:00

Apple receives Patent for Holographic 3D Projection Display

Nice to see some solid work from APPLE in receiving a patent for an auto-stereoscopic system.
Though actual implementation is not a given - not soon at least, it is good to know what to say when a 3D naysayer quips that it won't be any good until the glasses are eliminated - the answer is "Apple have a patent for that".

This article is very long detailed and interesting as heck - if you are interested in autostero (who isn't?) then you've got to check this out from Mac News Network:

http://www.macnn.com/blogs/2008/03/20/apple-working-on-3d-holographic-projection-displays.html

3D iPhone application

2009-11-05T19:59:00.000-08:00

3D iPhone application

Leave it to Grey advertising - it's an ad for Longhorn steak house. The surreal image of a steak flipping ...over... and ...over... in 3D is, well, surreal. The good news is that we know they're serious... are they?

Here is how gomonews.com covered it:

http://www.gomonews.com/wpp-grey-group-launches-apple-iphone-stereoscopic-3d-application-for-longhorn-steakhouse/

DCIP funding = 20,000 3D screens

2009-11-03T20:43:00.000-08:00

DCIP Funding for exhibitors

DCIP funding is crucial for the growth of 3D.

Beacause the number of screens is still somewhere around 2,000 in the USA and 5,000 worldwide, release windows have become ridiculously short. All recent engagements, from Up, to Coraline have been limited to 2 weeks. Given the current release schedule, James Cameron's much anticipated AVATAR will be available in 3D for 1.8 weeks on average. With the performance figures for most 3D films, this is clearly leaving money on the table.

This $1 billion line of credit from JPMorgan Securities (DCIP) ought to go a long way towards remedying this situation allowing theater owners to upgrade their systems to 20,000 across North America - more than half the total screens.

Heres Variety's take:
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117993164.html?categoryid=1009&cs=1&nid=2562

Wall Street Journal:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122283741314593631.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Reuters:
http://www.reuters.com/article/ousiv/idUSTRE4902NW20081001

Heres what DCIP say about themselves:
http://www.dcipllc.com/aboutus.xml

Digital Cinema Implementation Partners (DCIP) is a company owned equally by exhibition industry leaders AMC Entertainment Inc., Cinemark USA, Inc. (NYSE:CNK) and Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE:RGC). Representing more than 14,000 screens in the U.S. and Canada, DCIP is headquartered in Bergen County, NJ with offices in Minneapolis and Denver. DCIP was created in 2007 to plan and implement the deployment of digital cinema during the motion picture industry’s transition from film to digital technology.

The primary benefit of universal implementation of digital cinema distribution and exhibition is the cost savings that result from eliminating the need to print, deliver and retrieve thousands of celluloid film reels per release. With a digital cinema distribution system in place, film studio/distributors will be able to deliver digital content via broadband or satellite links at little marginal cost.

Digital cinema promises a new world of programming flexibility, picture quality and image consistency. It is expected to expand alternative, non-traditional theatre programming, ultimately providing more choices to moviegoers.

3D TV in England

2009-11-01T20:33:00.000-08:00

Sky 3D TV will be launched in 2010

Englands Sky Tv will soon be offering 3D broadcasts. The service will be delivered via its (installed base of) SKY+HD boxes. Viewers will be able to watch movies sports and entertainment in 3D from their existing cable service providing they have a DLP or are willing to upgrade to one of the new generation of monitors from JVC, Hyundai, and Sony.

Nice article here from techradar.com:

http://www.techradar.com/news/television/sky-3dtv-will-be-launched-in-2010-621310

Apple 3D Game Controller patent

2009-10-20T20:16:00.000-07:00

Apple have a patent for a Wii like 3D game controller.

In May 2009 Apple published its patent for a 3D remote-control system. The report suggests that the remote-control system will be able to detect the absolute position of the remote on an X, Y and Z axes, similar to Nintendo’s Wiimote.

AppleInsider suggests that Apple TV would serve as the game console. Supporting AppleInsider’s speculation, PopCap vice president of video game platforms Greg
Canessa said in a Wired interview that he would be "customizing [PopCap's] user interface and display for Zune, ipod, [and] Apple TV."

Details on the 3D-gaming experience itself are scarce; when questioned about gaming in interviews, Steve Jobs has been tight-lipped as usual. But keep in mind that Apple is an overachiever and strives to be revolutionary. Jason Schwarz, a writer at Seeking Alpha, suspects that Jobs is going to blow us away with true 3D gaming: "You actually want to learn to fly a plane, to sail, to race Nascar, or to improve your golf swing? 3D Apple could bring these real life simulations to the mainstream," he wrote in a Mar. 14 blog.

Among Windows-PC enthusiasts, the most echoed criticism of Apple is its relatively diminutive grip on the gaming industry; despite the ability to run Windows on Apple’s Intel machines, gaming remains a concern.
Will the digital-music giant strive to conquer new territories by revolutionizing 3D gaming? Or will Apple TV just let us play crappy iPod games like The Sims Pool? We’ll keep you posted.

Photo courtesy AppleInsider

3D EYEWEAR

2009-10-11T19:34:00.000-07:00

Premium RealD 3D Eyewear

RealD are finally getting the designer eyewear out there. What took them so long? Not only are designer frames potentially an extremely lucrative niche. It's not that they're going to sell that many pair of specs - they're more of a luxury item it's good for 3D's image. The names bandied about by people who know at the 3D Summit this August are impressive (think: French - designer) and Ray-Ban are in there with their classic Wayfarer look.

Here's the story:

Look3D, a leading 3D vision company, and RealD, the world's leading 3D cinema technology company, have reached a licensing agreement for Look3D to design, manufacture and distribute RealD 3D certified premium eyewear. Look3D eyewear will offer the same crisp, clear RealD 3D experience as eyewear currently distributed at RealD equipped theatres and will be compatible with all RealD theatres worldwide.

"Moviegoers will be able to pick from a full line-up of premium RealD 3D glasses in cool designs with shapes and styles that hug the face like regular glasses," said Rhett Adam, director of Look3D. "3D movies are booming and we're excited for the millions of fans of RealD 3D around the world to experience the next film in Look3D style."

"Moviegoers are flocking to theatres in record numbers to experience RealD 3D movies and now they'll be able to have their own pair of premium RealD 3D glasses in a style that's all their own," said Joseph Peixoto, RealD president of worldwide cinema. "Like people having a pair of sunglasses, movie fans will have a pair of RealD 3D glasses personalized in style and fit, and certified by RealD to assure a fantastic movie experience. We look forward to additional announcements about the introduction of designer 3D glasses from top fashion brands and prescription RealD 3D eyewear in the near future."

Look3D will create multiple RealD compatible eyewear collections for adults and children, including a premium collection of glasses of the highest quality with styles matching today's most popular eyewear designs. Look3D will also offer a themed collection of glasses with colors, shapes and other design elements matching a variety of upcoming 3D major motion picture releases.

Look3D RealD eyewear will be available for purchase beginning in December with sales through Look3D, at movie theatres and online retail sites. Check out Look3D's website at www.look3d.com for a sneak peak of what is to come in 2010.

RealD 3D movies are the new generation of entertainment, with crisp, bright, ultra-realistic images so lifelike moviegoers feel like they've stepped inside the movie. A driving force in this year's elevated box office totals delivering three to four times per screen revenue of the same film on 2D screens, RealD 3D adds depth that puts moviegoers in the thick of the action, whether they're joining favorite characters in a new world or dodging objects that seem to fly into the theatre. RealD pioneered today's digital 3D and is the world's most widely used 3D cinema technology with over 9,000 screens under contract and nearly 4,000 screens installed in 48 countries.

About RealD: RealD is the global leader in 3D, bringing the most advanced and realistic digital 3D experience to cinemas worldwide. RealD's new generation technology, deployed across the world's largest 3D platform, provides a stunningly lifelike viewing experience. Beyond cinema, RealD is the worldwide inventor and provider of key stereoscopic technologies used in science, manufacturing, marketing, and other industries, with 30 years of scientific development behind its systems. RealD's mission-critical 3D visualization technologies are used by organizations such as NASA, Pfizer, BMW, Boeing and more. Visit www.realD.com for more information.

About Look3D: Look3D Eyewear is a specialist eyewear company assisting studios, cinemas and movie lovers in the transition into Digital 3D by creating seamless vision solutions which allow the audiences to engage the on-screen story like never before. Our goal is to ensure movie lovers experience Digital 3D as intended by film makers. Look3D Eyewear guarantees that all its glasses meet the specific RealD engineering specifications.

LOS ANGELES and MELBOURNE, Australia, Oct. 28, 2009 /PRNewswire/ --

VESA DisplayPort 1.2

2009-10-07T18:55:00.000-07:00

VESA DisplayPort 1.2

DisplayPort 1.2 with its added bandwidth will allow for 3D at 2560x1600.

Display standards group VESA has revealed early details of DisplayPort 1.2, the next generation of its interface for computer screens. The technology doubles the amount of available bandwidth and lets the format produce images better than either the current 1.1 standard or dual-link DVI. At a minimum, the technology would allow a near-4K resolution of 3840x2160 at 60 frames per second and more advanced 30-bit color; the current specification is limited to 2560x1600 at the same quality.

Apple's DisplayPort mini-connector: soon to be standard

The advancement will also allow the extra bandwidth to be used for either a faster image or multiple images. It could be used for 120 frames per second images at 1080p and reduce the loss of detail in fast movement, similar to modern 120Hz HDTVs; that same speed could also be used to maintain two separate images in a stereoscopic 3D effect for displays like the ViewSonic FuHzion and NVIDIA's matching GeForce 3D Vision glasses. In 2D, the bandwidth could be split into daisy-chained displays and include as many as four 1920x1200 screens or two 2560x1600 examples.

Version 1.2 should also make DisplayPort more practical for notebooks and is expected to use Apple's Mini DisplayPort as the official standard, shrinking the connector to provide more space. The output format is already being made available by Apple under a free license but would now be officially encouraged for use by the VESA group.

Confirmation of Apple's participation and the full standard's specifications should be published in mid-2009; devices using 1.2 should be available shortly afterwards.

Source: Electronista

LIVE 3D demonstration at Maker Faire

2009-08-08T12:34:00.000-07:00

LIVE 3D demonstration at Maker Faire

SPECIAL AWESOME were invited to O'reilly media's maker Faire to speak about 3D and to demonstrate the stop motion and motion control techniques which were used to create "Coraline". We were very lucky to have (stereoscopic cinematographer) Peter Williams - comomoco.com - and (animator) Justin Kohn - mechanicalspirits.com - both Coarline alumni and both of them working at the speed of light so the audience could actually SEE something (watching animation being made is like watching paint dry...).

Colin Miller - SPECIAL AWESOME founder and senior visual effects artist showed reels and spoke about the history and techniques of stereoscopic 3D. Colin's presentation script is included below - unedited - but full of ineteresting tidbits and a good overview of where 3D has been and where it is going. Enjoy!

MAKER FAIRE PRESENTATION

(thanks to everyone who made this possible: Dale Dogherty, Louise Glasgow, Kate Rowe, Arne Frager)

INTRO:

Hi I am Colin Miller. I am here with my company SPECIAL AWESOME. We are a 3D film production company.

The core of our group have known each other and worked together for years BUT we really started working seriously on 3d as an extension of our experience working together on a little movie called Coraline. When Coraline was wrapping, I felt that what we had learned was really unique, and we ought to apply it to the growing world of 3d film production - thus special awesome was born... since we started, we've included all sorts of other friends we've known over the years - many did 3d before, and all have done high end animation. live action, and special effects work for high end commercials and feature films. 3d itself is a really great discipline because it presents all sorts of new technical and creative challenges which keep us learning, and that is what makes working in film and television production interesting.

Today we are really lucky to have some amazing professionals from the film biz with us - everyone is special AND awesome which BTW is the #1 requirement for being a part of or working with our company: INTRODUCE OUR GUESTS.

PW - directed for nike coca cola and turner networks, and cinematographer on Coraline and mokeybone, ALSO the inventor and maker of the como fully protable motion control camera system, Peter can go anywhere and shoot computer controlled stereoscopic 3D at iMax quality on battery power - see comomoco.com

JK - world class stop motion animator - has done everything: nightmare, james, Coraline, life aquatic, ALSO a maker of Channelled Alien Mechanical Spirits, animatable sculptures which are better seen than described LOOK- see mechanicalspirits.com

3D HISTORY:

although there is a current wave of 3d film making actually its not new - actually has been around since 1833 when the first stereo photos were made

by 1915 3d techniques were being used to create stereoscopic films

1st stereo art actually came about in the renaissance when painters started trying to understand the world of optics light and perspective around 1600

lots of famous films were made in the first golden age of 3D in the 30's This was the same time as the view-master - technically a stereoscope

by 40's 3D was getting mainstream with a a consumer 3d camera and stereo-viewers, lots of home made stereo-pairs exist from this era - ebay collectors

1950 1st big boom of films: house of wax creature from the black lagoon dial m for murder - vincent price alfred hitchcock

there were also lots of ridiculous 3-sploitation films (I'd really like to see some of these) - catwomen of the moon - top banana with phil silvers, and one called "The French Line"

starring Jane Russell (for those of you not familiar she was a voluptuous movie star of the 50's for whom howard hughes invented the underwire bra) in revealing costumes playing up her sex appeal, "It'll knock both of your eyes out!"

1969 saw the release of the softcore sex comedy The Stewardesses. The film cost $100,000 to produce earned $27 million becoming the most

profitable 3-Dimensional film to date, and in purely relative terms, one of the most profitable films ever. over 100 million in current dollars

3D legend Chris Condon, and Director Ed Meyer, are set to remake The Stewardesses, next year

you can see what 3d film makers were thinking about in this era...

its funny because when I tell people I do 3D I often hear "wow - you could..." - believe me its NOT an original idea

another revival in the 80's some real gimmick films like: jaws 3d friday the 13th pt 3

2003 the current era - digital techniques have paved the way for a renaissance (digital production and projection) a lot of the films you've seen or heard about recently -

beowulf bolt bloody valentine monsters vs aliens u2 and of course Coraline

WHAT IS?:

I've got a somewhat dry definition here which I like because its so accurate: stereoscopic imaging consists of creating a 3-D illusion starting from a pair of 2-D images.

The easiest way to create depth perception in the brain is to provide the eyes of the viewer with two different images,

representing two perspectives of the same object, with a minor deviation similar to the perspectives that both eyes naturally receive in binocular vision.

a viewing system is used to cause each eye to see only the image intended for it.

SO - an easy example of this is what we refer to as anaglyph (old fashion red/blue) -> filters, for each eye and the films for each eye are corresponding tinted ---

This is the clearest way to understand a 3D or stereoscopic film - a film for each eye from a slightly different perspective with a viewing system designed to cause each eye to see the film intended for it.

current techniques are more sophisticated using polarization and color interference technologies. Real D and Dolby and iMax

What this means is that in producing a 3d one is actually making = 2 virtually identical movies - we call them the left and right eyes, and then encoding for a presentation system -

BTW - tv coming soon. NAB last month in LV - lots of very cool big 3d flat screens - cable and content providers are scrambling to catch up

so to get a 3d film a 2 camera system must usually be used - this process of making 2 virtually identical synchronized films goes all the way through the prodcution edit post etc -

most everyone with few exceptions needs to work in 3d to one extent or another & most face additional challenges because of this

lots of considerations not immediately apparent - i.e. you cant just make it in 3d - the 3d needs to flow with the rest of the elements just like the music or lighting wouldn't change radically from shot to shot, the 3d must flow in a way that makes sense too. from deep to shallow perspectives in a way that is compelling and makes sense -- this is the real challenge - to NOT make it a gimmick but have it fit into the story and actually assist in the dramatic motion of the film. there are also lots of technical challenges: you get errors simply because of optical anomalies that cant be controlled or predicted. you get things which are physically correct (exist in nature) but don't work on a screen - hold your hand up top a light - retinal rivalry, this happens in all sorts of ways - things exist in nature but look bad or hurt your brain when you see them on the screen

this is one of the many reasons that Coraline is such an amazing film - because every little thing was painstakingly finessed to make it calm and smooth and enjoyable without any visual bumps or corners or headaches - Henry was so adamant about it being a PART of the film and not a gimmick + PK and BVH incredible pros with a great vision for the film

CORALINE = MAKE

- and speaking of these guys: we are listed as... this is true to MAKE but maybe FROM is more accurate - actually it took a huge team of hundreds and a few years. its really an appropriate subject re: make because one of the key principles was thet the entire film was entirely hand made - truly a MAKE - why? it has a real life and magic when someone puts their spirit into a tree or a sheet of raindrops - every stitch of clothing, every flower and tree and every raindrop and doorway strip of bacon and spider web .... all made by hand

this also applies to the ACTING - or a PERFORMANCE in animation - its a ridiculous technique in some ways those of us who do it know only too well but its worth it cos you get something really special. and the word performance is really important here - there is a human quality that comes through when an animator creates something from beginning to end by hand without the aid of the non-liear technique i.e. CGI to revisit every nuance and gesture and thus take the spontanaiety OUT of the performance

so the MAKE of Coraline is really relevant because it was truly MADE by hand from beginning to end

there are numerous magazine articles about all sorts of unique techniques we used for Coraline, many of which were developed specifically for this movie.

the one I would like to mention today involves motion control cameras - (most people know) animation is shot a frame at a time, . look at any live action film - the camera needs to move. so there is a problem her that needs to be solved..... mo-co uses a computer to program highly crafted camera movements that can the be shot an increment at a time so that the animator can move his puppet after each frame is shot - what was unique about Coraline was that this SAME (mo-co) system was used to create the 3d - the computer moved the camera back and forth for the right and left eye positions for each and every frame of the film. this was not only convenient but also necessary since the 3d effect depends on the distance between the right and left eyes to be proportional to the size of the objects being shot and the size they should be on screen in the finished product - thus for Coraline (miniatures) the distance was so small (a few mm) that 2 cameras could never be gotten that close to one another.

AGAIN - we are special awesome. we have (these people) here with us today

watch animation take place before your eyes and we will all be answering questions until we run out of time