So What Are The Other Different Technologies That Deliver 3D TV Without Glasses Solutions?
Parallax Barrier Technology
Parallax barrier 3D TVs work by using tiny lenses which are integrated into the TV screen - layered liquid crystal displays. Each layer contains small stripes that hide specific pixels so that some can only be seen by your left eye, while other pixels can only be seen by your right. The result is the two images our eyes need to see to send a 3D image to our brains. With the lenses being built into the screen, there's no longer a need for 3D glasses. The biggest drawback is that parallax barrier only works if the viewer remains in the same spot, hence the reason why the early Toshiba sets are on the small side. Screen brightness is also a possible problem.
Lenticular Lens Technology
Another method of delivering no glasses 3D TV is by the use of lenticular lenses , which are shaped and designed so that a different image is displayed to each eye depending on the viewing angle. This is achieved by building small lenses on to the display screen and then refracting the left and right images that are emitted. This gives slightly less reduction in brightness than parallax barrier displays and a wider range of viewing angles.
Head Tracking 3D Technology
Head tracking works by using a webcam that locks on to a viewers eyes and adjusts the images sent from the display as the viewer moves so they see in 3D. Clearly this only works for one viewer at a time and seems best employed with small screen devices such as mobile 3D TVs or laptops. In fact a Toshiba 3D laptop has already been demonstrated using this technology.
The 3D TV Box
The 3D TV Box is another recent development in 3D TV without glasses technology. The Hungarian company iPont originally demonstrated a Tridelity 65 inch LCD 3D autostereoscopic 3D combined with the prototype version of their 3D TV Box. The technology works by taking a standard 3D image and transmitting it to the Box to be displayed. The 3D TV Box takes the image and projects it on to the TV display at the same depth you see when using 3D glasses on most 3D sets, and can take content from Internet, satellite, cable or any other services that currently offer streaming 3D content solutions.
There were some limits in viewing angles, which is to be expected, but in general the technology offers no worse results than any others seen so far and in fact does offer an improvement in quality to the extent that the depth of imaging at least equalled that achieved with glasses. There was an added bonus achieved in brightness because glasses are not being used.
Since their first demonstrations, iPont have continued a push forward with their promising technology, aiming to show that it's reaching a good level of maturity and hence acceptability to a buying public who are keen for without glasses 3D TV.
IPont seem to be working towards pushing their Box solution into venues such as shopping centres and airports, plus other entertainment venues such as sports bars and amusement parks.
The MIT Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Solution
MIT's first foray into without glasses development was known as the HR3D development. This concept was first shown at at the SIGGRAPH Asia graphics conference in 2010. The technology works in similar fashion to the double LCD layer used in the Nintendo 3DS. Researchers at MIT have demonstrated a prototype where the top LCD can display an image which is customised to the one shown on the bottom layer. You can see a short video here.
July 2012 saw the release of a new development involving what MIT have termed as a "tensor display."
This does sound highly promising, with reports suggesting it can deliver clear, bright images irrelevant of where the viewer is watching from.
The solution is based on four LCD displays lying on top of each other. These refresh at different times to trick your eyes into believing they're seeing a 3D image.
If the prototype ever does make it to development stage there are some problems - most noticeably in the filming techniques required. Each frame of any 3D content would need to be captured on film from between 25 and 30 different angles.
Conversion Technology
The IFA trade show held in Berlin between August 31st and September 5th 2012 will see an interesting new solution. Developed by research teams at the Fraunhofer Institute for Telecommunications, the new technology acts by converting existing 3D content on a Blu-Ray disc in such a way that it can be watched in 3D without glasses.
The solution works by using mapping that recognises a specific distance between the filming cameras and each target object being filmed. Software then works out the distances of intermediate object views by using rendering techniques based on depth of images. The software automatically displays 3D images in real time on hardware (a TV) that works in conjunction to estimate the depth of images and show them effectively.
We should get more info on how well this solution works when it's demonstrated at the IFA show.
Sony's OLED 3D TVs
Manufacturing giant Sony has long range plans to produce a no glasses 3D TV solution using OLED TVs. These promise to produce enhanced picture quality - around four times that of regular HD - which takes less power too. Sony claim to already have without glasses technology ready in their camcorders, and rumours are they'll be ready to deliver commercially viable 3D TV models within a few years. They're focussing on OLED as the technology that will become prevalent in TVs in coming years.
The Disadvantages Of 3D TV Without Glasses
For parallax barrier viewing to work, one of the drawbacks is that the angle from which you watch the screen and your distance from the screen can be critical. So, to get a full and high quality effect you need to be sitting directly and squarely in front of the TV at the optimum viewing distance.
When will mass produced 3D TVs without glasses be available?
This is a difficult one to answer at this point. Though we're definitely getting closer, as recent announcements of commercially available models from both Toshiba and Philips are indicating. The rest of the 3D TV manufacturers are still working on perfecting the method, though it's likely to be some time before the technology is advanced enough to create massed numbers at an affordable price.
The first no glasses sets were on the small side, though advance reports from the Consumer Electronics Show 2011 suggest a number of the manufacturers have prototype models under development. Sony in particular plan to show glasses free 3D TVs in both LCD and light emitting diode models.
One thing is for sure, the current boom in the interest in 3D TV in general is already fuelling the need to develop no glasses 3D TV. If the major manufacturers want to hold an advantage over their competitors, it'll be critical for them to be looking at the best ways to deliver.
What does the future of no glasses 3D TV hold?
With the arrival of the first commercially available Toshiba sets, the precedent is already set for the development of bigger screen 3D TVs which use parallax barrier or lenticular lenses. Major manufacturers are already displaying prototype larger screen models. If they can deliver these commercially at a reasonable price, and with the same quality that you get from TVs that require active shutter glasses, then the predicted explosion in the acceptance and uptake of 3D viewing, whether for TV or for 3D games, may well be guaranteed.
There are a couple of other developments to be aware of. One is the potential of sets that contain tiny cameras which track the viewers position. These would adjust the emitted images so that the viewer is always in a sweet spot, relieving the need for keeping in a specific position or at a certain distance when watching. In fact, one of the latest prototype 3D laptops from Toshiba already uses this technology by use of a built in webcam which locks on to your eyes when you approach the screen. Further development is needed as at this stage it does not deliver the same quality as you get with active or passive 3D glasses.
Further future potential lies in holographic technology which of course begins to take us away from viewing images on a screen and starts to focus on the objects viewed, bringing us into the realms of science fiction - the real thing played out right in front of you. This is a little further away!
If 'with glasses 3D TV' is a problem, why are the manufacturers still introducing new models?
No single topic is causing as much debate on 3D TV related websites, forum threads or blog discussions as the 3D TV without glasses issue, and it's clear that those of us who are not ready to accept the need to wear 3D glasses are in the vast majority.
This might elicit a question over why the manufacturers are still announcing new 'with glasses' models. The obvious answer - and one that indicates a great future for 3D entertainment in general - is that they are so convinced of the potential for mass acceptance of 3D TV in the future that they are prepared to lose money now to position themselves with a competitive advantage later. That said, although recent reports indicate flat sales, 3D TVs are selling and general public interest is high.
So, affordable 3D TV without glasses is definitely on the horizon, if maybe a mid to distant one, with the promise of a whole new era of home entertainment.
Aside from 3D TV, where can I get the best 3D cinema experience without glasses?
IMAX cinemas are well known for giving high quality immersive cinema entertainment. The Youtube video below gives some detail on the Hackworth IMAX Dome Theater in San Jose, California. The IMAX Dome promises a powerful and immersive movie experience.
Archived News & Without Glasses Developments
Dec 2011 - LG's New No Glasses 3D Monitor
LG have announced a new 3D monitor that does not require you to wear glasses.
The DX2500 3D monitor is already available in Korea and works using head tracking technology to view images on a parallax barrier screen. Early 2012 will see the monitor available throughout a range of other countries.
LG most likely have a potential hit on their hands. Their FPR Cinema Passive 3D TV models have been a great success.
Oct 2011 - 200 Inch Prototype TV
NICT and JVC Kenwood have joined forces to demonstrate a huge 200 inch, full HD no glasses 3D TV. The prototype model delivers 57 viewing angles with each one displaying an image within a 13 degree range.
Sept 2011 - 3DFusion At The Shopping Mall
3DFusion have installed a high quality solution in a shopping mall in New York which is reportedly stunning local shoppers.
Four LCD panels are installed in a kiosk at Ithaca Mall which are giving superb 3D images from multiple angles, all without the need for glasses. 3DFusion are using this as a trial, with plans to expand into hundreds of locations across the US.
Sept 2011 - German Scientists Developing New Solution
Research scientists in Germany are working on displays coated with special optical foils. The without glasses 3D effect is delivered by the normal creation of two different images for each eye, and the problem of how to give multiple viewing angles is tackled by showing up to ten different views of an image. Displayed images need to be converted before they're transmitted. The research project goes under the name of MUSCADE.
Sept 2011 - The Phillips No Glasses Demonstration
Philips demonstrated their version of glasses free 3D TV at the IFA show 2011. The set reportedly performed well, with 3D images presented in a more subdued way than seen on many other sets. Colours and images were strong, crisp, and sharp when viewed at the optimum watching positions.
Sept 2011 - The New Toshiba 55 Inch 55ZL2
Just demonstrated at this year's IFA show in Berlin, at long last a full sized 3D TV without glasses from Toshiba. The Toshiba 55ZL2 is justifiably billed as the largest glasses free 3D screen and promises the best without glasses solution seen to date.
Aug 2011 - Korean Researchers developing OLED without glasses 3D solution
New developments in Korea are seeing a team of researchers examining a without glasses solution that uses minute prisms on an OLED display. OLED displays work in a way that allows them to be built with screens that are much more flexible and lightweight than other display types such as LCD or plasma.
Aug 2011 - More iPont 3D TV Box Demonstrations
Further good news in the without glasses arena with iPont stating they'll partner with satellite network provider SES Astra to demonstrate their high quality 3D TV Box without glasses solution at the IBC 2011 exhibition. The partnership aims to demonstrate - through a combination of iPont' 3D real time Box solution which streams satellite delivered content and a 42 inch LCD display - that without glasses 3DTV technology is fast approaching a level of maturity and quality which will make it acceptable to the general buying public, and at a reasonable price too.
July 2011 - LG Unveil New Glasses Free 3D Monitor
Named the LG D200, this 20 inch parallax barrier monitor is scheduled to hit markets outside Korea in the latter quarter of 2011.
The monitor uses the eye tracking solution to deliver 3D images to the viewer wherever they're positioned.
Positioning of the viewer is always a problem with parallax barrier solutions, with only a certain number of 'sweet spots' available to see those 3D images. LG state that the D2000 does go some way to minimising that problem due to the use of a special camera sensor which is attached to the monitor. This recognises any changes to the viewers eye positions in real time, and automatically adjusts to give the best results.
There's every possibility that the LG D2000 3D monitor will cement LG's position as one of the leaders in 3D products, complimenting the existing range of 3D TVs, projectors, smartphones, and laptops.
July 2011 - IPont to demo without glasses 3D TV solution in conjunction with the BBC...
With The BBC screening coverage in 3D of the Wimbledon 2011 Men's Tennis final on 3rd July 2011, iPont have grasped the opportunity to display their 3D TV without glasses technology. This is the BBC's first trial showing of a 3D event, and during the day iPont will be partnering with the display provider 3D Exposure to demonstrate the capability of two of their without glasses models - namely a 42 inch and a 65 inch set.
The 3D LCD autostereoscopic displays will work with iPont's 3D TV Box to deliver good quality, wide angle viewing of 3D images.
Nissho Electronics New 52 Inch Business Model
May 25th 2011 - Nissho Electronics have demonstrated a new 52 inch 3D TV without glasses model based on lenticular lens technology. Designated the BDL5231-3D2R, the LCD TV is capable of 2D to 3D conversion and works at full HD 1080p, with the lenticular lens delivering 15 image sweet spots.
Sounds great, though the first models will only be released to the business market rather than to home users, and at a price of around $20k. Technical details include an 8ms response time, 60 Hz refresh rate, and a 2000:1 contrast ratio. Early reports suggest the set cannot deliver the same level of sharpness and deep 3D images that you can get with the best of the current with glasses 3D TVs.UK Sports Fans To See UEFA League Final in 3D
In what could be a huge testimonial to the quality of their 3D TV without glasses solution, iPONT International are partnering with the Walkabout Australian bar chain to display the UEFA Champions League football final on May 28th in a bar in Covent Garden, London. The match will be shown on a 65 inch no glasses TV which uses the iPONT 3D TV Box solution that promises a wide angled 3D sporting extravaganza.
The 3D TV Box will also be demonstrated at the Screenmedia Exposition at Earls Court, London on May 18th and 19th 2011.
New Solution Under Development For No Glasses 3D
May 9th 2011 - There is another potential solution under development for no glasses 3D viewing, which differs from the parallax barrier and lenticular lens solution. This latest development from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology focusses on technology which is looking to solve the main problem of restricted viewing angles.
It needs a lot more work, but you can see a video showing the potential here....
70 inch glasses free display from Innovision
April 19 2011 - Korean based company Innovision have demonstrated one of the biggest yet glasses free 3D displays in Japan. The 70 inch no glasses 3D screen is reported to deliver near perfect 3D imaging irrespective of the viewers position.
Toshiba bigger screen models within a year?
April 2011 - Toshiba have announced they anticipate releasing 40 inch plus size without glasses sets within a year. We can probably expect more detail at the CES show in early 2012.
One down - Samsung rule out 3D TV without glasses for 2011
Mar 18 2011 - Major Japanese manufacturer Samsung has stated they have no plans to launch 3D TV without glasses models in 2011, citing quality issues as the reason behind their decision.
Samsung's stance may come as a surprise as they've already demonstrated a prototype 55 inch LCD 3D TV no glasses model in China, though with 9 viewing angles the set doesn't come close to Samsung's utopia of a 32 viewing angle model. It seems they believe it'll be at least three years until the sets are commercially viable at the right quality level.
Japanese display the world's largest 3D TV that doesn't require glasses
Feb 2011 - a 200 inch no glasses display has been demonstrated in Japan. The display works by using multiple projectors set up behind it to project images at different angles. The display of course won't be suitable for home viewing, but at least it shows that no glasses 3D TV technology is definitely on the move. This could be the first step towards a successful future for 3D TV without glasses in small screen devices.
Feb2011 Mobile Smartphone to deliver 3D without glasses
LG plan to launch their Optimus 3D smartphone - using the same display technology as the Nintendo 3DS - at the Mobile World Congress show in Feb 2011.
Toshiba sales lower than expected
Feb 2011 - Toshiba reported sales of 500 no glasses sets in December 2010 - 500 fewer than expected.
Jan 2011 - New manufacturer Team ACX announce autostereoscopic model Vibrante 3DX-24
Jan 2011 - New mobile 3D devices creating no glasses 3D TV potential - Nintendo announced today that the 3D capable Nintendo 3DS may be launched with the potential of receiving 3D video content via wi-fi, courtesy of Sky.
Jan 2011 - Toshiba demo prototype large screen no glasses 3D TV models at CES 2011 in Las Vegas.
Jan 2011 - LG and Sony both announce prototype non glasses models at CES 2011.
Viewing angle problem solved? Jan 6 2011 - Technology firm iPONT will reveal the first 3D solution this week that allows viewing from a wide angle, and without the need for glasses.
New range of no glasses 3D TVs from eLocity Jan 2011 - Manufacturer eLocity announce a line up of no glasses 3D devices this month, including their 3T 'without glasses' range of TVs.
3D TV Guide Site Articles
Parallax Barrier Technology
Parallax barrier 3D TVs work by using tiny lenses which are integrated into the TV screen - layered liquid crystal displays. Each layer contains small stripes that hide specific pixels so that some can only be seen by your left eye, while other pixels can only be seen by your right. The result is the two images our eyes need to see to send a 3D image to our brains. With the lenses being built into the screen, there's no longer a need for 3D glasses. The biggest drawback is that parallax barrier only works if the viewer remains in the same spot, hence the reason why the early Toshiba sets are on the small side. Screen brightness is also a possible problem.
Lenticular Lens Technology
Another method of delivering no glasses 3D TV is by the use of lenticular lenses , which are shaped and designed so that a different image is displayed to each eye depending on the viewing angle. This is achieved by building small lenses on to the display screen and then refracting the left and right images that are emitted. This gives slightly less reduction in brightness than parallax barrier displays and a wider range of viewing angles.
Head Tracking 3D Technology
Head tracking works by using a webcam that locks on to a viewers eyes and adjusts the images sent from the display as the viewer moves so they see in 3D. Clearly this only works for one viewer at a time and seems best employed with small screen devices such as mobile 3D TVs or laptops. In fact a Toshiba 3D laptop has already been demonstrated using this technology.
The 3D TV Box
The 3D TV Box is another recent development in 3D TV without glasses technology. The Hungarian company iPont originally demonstrated a Tridelity 65 inch LCD 3D autostereoscopic 3D combined with the prototype version of their 3D TV Box. The technology works by taking a standard 3D image and transmitting it to the Box to be displayed. The 3D TV Box takes the image and projects it on to the TV display at the same depth you see when using 3D glasses on most 3D sets, and can take content from Internet, satellite, cable or any other services that currently offer streaming 3D content solutions.
There were some limits in viewing angles, which is to be expected, but in general the technology offers no worse results than any others seen so far and in fact does offer an improvement in quality to the extent that the depth of imaging at least equalled that achieved with glasses. There was an added bonus achieved in brightness because glasses are not being used.
Since their first demonstrations, iPont have continued a push forward with their promising technology, aiming to show that it's reaching a good level of maturity and hence acceptability to a buying public who are keen for without glasses 3D TV.
IPont seem to be working towards pushing their Box solution into venues such as shopping centres and airports, plus other entertainment venues such as sports bars and amusement parks.
The MIT Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Solution
MIT's first foray into without glasses development was known as the HR3D development. This concept was first shown at at the SIGGRAPH Asia graphics conference in 2010. The technology works in similar fashion to the double LCD layer used in the Nintendo 3DS. Researchers at MIT have demonstrated a prototype where the top LCD can display an image which is customised to the one shown on the bottom layer. You can see a short video here.
July 2012 saw the release of a new development involving what MIT have termed as a "tensor display."
This does sound highly promising, with reports suggesting it can deliver clear, bright images irrelevant of where the viewer is watching from.
The solution is based on four LCD displays lying on top of each other. These refresh at different times to trick your eyes into believing they're seeing a 3D image.
If the prototype ever does make it to development stage there are some problems - most noticeably in the filming techniques required. Each frame of any 3D content would need to be captured on film from between 25 and 30 different angles.
Conversion Technology
The IFA trade show held in Berlin between August 31st and September 5th 2012 will see an interesting new solution. Developed by research teams at the Fraunhofer Institute for Telecommunications, the new technology acts by converting existing 3D content on a Blu-Ray disc in such a way that it can be watched in 3D without glasses.
The solution works by using mapping that recognises a specific distance between the filming cameras and each target object being filmed. Software then works out the distances of intermediate object views by using rendering techniques based on depth of images. The software automatically displays 3D images in real time on hardware (a TV) that works in conjunction to estimate the depth of images and show them effectively.
We should get more info on how well this solution works when it's demonstrated at the IFA show.
Sony's OLED 3D TVs
Manufacturing giant Sony has long range plans to produce a no glasses 3D TV solution using OLED TVs. These promise to produce enhanced picture quality - around four times that of regular HD - which takes less power too. Sony claim to already have without glasses technology ready in their camcorders, and rumours are they'll be ready to deliver commercially viable 3D TV models within a few years. They're focussing on OLED as the technology that will become prevalent in TVs in coming years.
The Disadvantages Of 3D TV Without Glasses
For parallax barrier viewing to work, one of the drawbacks is that the angle from which you watch the screen and your distance from the screen can be critical. So, to get a full and high quality effect you need to be sitting directly and squarely in front of the TV at the optimum viewing distance.
When will mass produced 3D TVs without glasses be available?
This is a difficult one to answer at this point. Though we're definitely getting closer, as recent announcements of commercially available models from both Toshiba and Philips are indicating. The rest of the 3D TV manufacturers are still working on perfecting the method, though it's likely to be some time before the technology is advanced enough to create massed numbers at an affordable price.
The first no glasses sets were on the small side, though advance reports from the Consumer Electronics Show 2011 suggest a number of the manufacturers have prototype models under development. Sony in particular plan to show glasses free 3D TVs in both LCD and light emitting diode models.
One thing is for sure, the current boom in the interest in 3D TV in general is already fuelling the need to develop no glasses 3D TV. If the major manufacturers want to hold an advantage over their competitors, it'll be critical for them to be looking at the best ways to deliver.
What does the future of no glasses 3D TV hold?
With the arrival of the first commercially available Toshiba sets, the precedent is already set for the development of bigger screen 3D TVs which use parallax barrier or lenticular lenses. Major manufacturers are already displaying prototype larger screen models. If they can deliver these commercially at a reasonable price, and with the same quality that you get from TVs that require active shutter glasses, then the predicted explosion in the acceptance and uptake of 3D viewing, whether for TV or for 3D games, may well be guaranteed.
There are a couple of other developments to be aware of. One is the potential of sets that contain tiny cameras which track the viewers position. These would adjust the emitted images so that the viewer is always in a sweet spot, relieving the need for keeping in a specific position or at a certain distance when watching. In fact, one of the latest prototype 3D laptops from Toshiba already uses this technology by use of a built in webcam which locks on to your eyes when you approach the screen. Further development is needed as at this stage it does not deliver the same quality as you get with active or passive 3D glasses.
Further future potential lies in holographic technology which of course begins to take us away from viewing images on a screen and starts to focus on the objects viewed, bringing us into the realms of science fiction - the real thing played out right in front of you. This is a little further away!
If 'with glasses 3D TV' is a problem, why are the manufacturers still introducing new models?
No single topic is causing as much debate on 3D TV related websites, forum threads or blog discussions as the 3D TV without glasses issue, and it's clear that those of us who are not ready to accept the need to wear 3D glasses are in the vast majority.
This might elicit a question over why the manufacturers are still announcing new 'with glasses' models. The obvious answer - and one that indicates a great future for 3D entertainment in general - is that they are so convinced of the potential for mass acceptance of 3D TV in the future that they are prepared to lose money now to position themselves with a competitive advantage later. That said, although recent reports indicate flat sales, 3D TVs are selling and general public interest is high.
So, affordable 3D TV without glasses is definitely on the horizon, if maybe a mid to distant one, with the promise of a whole new era of home entertainment.
Aside from 3D TV, where can I get the best 3D cinema experience without glasses?
IMAX cinemas are well known for giving high quality immersive cinema entertainment. The Youtube video below gives some detail on the Hackworth IMAX Dome Theater in San Jose, California. The IMAX Dome promises a powerful and immersive movie experience.
Archived News & Without Glasses Developments
Dec 2011 - LG's New No Glasses 3D Monitor
LG have announced a new 3D monitor that does not require you to wear glasses.
The DX2500 3D monitor is already available in Korea and works using head tracking technology to view images on a parallax barrier screen. Early 2012 will see the monitor available throughout a range of other countries.
LG most likely have a potential hit on their hands. Their FPR Cinema Passive 3D TV models have been a great success.
Oct 2011 - 200 Inch Prototype TV
NICT and JVC Kenwood have joined forces to demonstrate a huge 200 inch, full HD no glasses 3D TV. The prototype model delivers 57 viewing angles with each one displaying an image within a 13 degree range.
Sept 2011 - 3DFusion At The Shopping Mall
3DFusion have installed a high quality solution in a shopping mall in New York which is reportedly stunning local shoppers.
Four LCD panels are installed in a kiosk at Ithaca Mall which are giving superb 3D images from multiple angles, all without the need for glasses. 3DFusion are using this as a trial, with plans to expand into hundreds of locations across the US.
Sept 2011 - German Scientists Developing New Solution
Research scientists in Germany are working on displays coated with special optical foils. The without glasses 3D effect is delivered by the normal creation of two different images for each eye, and the problem of how to give multiple viewing angles is tackled by showing up to ten different views of an image. Displayed images need to be converted before they're transmitted. The research project goes under the name of MUSCADE.
Sept 2011 - The Phillips No Glasses Demonstration
Philips demonstrated their version of glasses free 3D TV at the IFA show 2011. The set reportedly performed well, with 3D images presented in a more subdued way than seen on many other sets. Colours and images were strong, crisp, and sharp when viewed at the optimum watching positions.
Sept 2011 - The New Toshiba 55 Inch 55ZL2
Just demonstrated at this year's IFA show in Berlin, at long last a full sized 3D TV without glasses from Toshiba. The Toshiba 55ZL2 is justifiably billed as the largest glasses free 3D screen and promises the best without glasses solution seen to date.
Aug 2011 - Korean Researchers developing OLED without glasses 3D solution
New developments in Korea are seeing a team of researchers examining a without glasses solution that uses minute prisms on an OLED display. OLED displays work in a way that allows them to be built with screens that are much more flexible and lightweight than other display types such as LCD or plasma.
Aug 2011 - More iPont 3D TV Box Demonstrations
Further good news in the without glasses arena with iPont stating they'll partner with satellite network provider SES Astra to demonstrate their high quality 3D TV Box without glasses solution at the IBC 2011 exhibition. The partnership aims to demonstrate - through a combination of iPont' 3D real time Box solution which streams satellite delivered content and a 42 inch LCD display - that without glasses 3DTV technology is fast approaching a level of maturity and quality which will make it acceptable to the general buying public, and at a reasonable price too.
July 2011 - LG Unveil New Glasses Free 3D Monitor
Named the LG D200, this 20 inch parallax barrier monitor is scheduled to hit markets outside Korea in the latter quarter of 2011.
The monitor uses the eye tracking solution to deliver 3D images to the viewer wherever they're positioned.
Positioning of the viewer is always a problem with parallax barrier solutions, with only a certain number of 'sweet spots' available to see those 3D images. LG state that the D2000 does go some way to minimising that problem due to the use of a special camera sensor which is attached to the monitor. This recognises any changes to the viewers eye positions in real time, and automatically adjusts to give the best results.
There's every possibility that the LG D2000 3D monitor will cement LG's position as one of the leaders in 3D products, complimenting the existing range of 3D TVs, projectors, smartphones, and laptops.
July 2011 - IPont to demo without glasses 3D TV solution in conjunction with the BBC...
With The BBC screening coverage in 3D of the Wimbledon 2011 Men's Tennis final on 3rd July 2011, iPont have grasped the opportunity to display their 3D TV without glasses technology. This is the BBC's first trial showing of a 3D event, and during the day iPont will be partnering with the display provider 3D Exposure to demonstrate the capability of two of their without glasses models - namely a 42 inch and a 65 inch set.
The 3D LCD autostereoscopic displays will work with iPont's 3D TV Box to deliver good quality, wide angle viewing of 3D images.
Nissho Electronics New 52 Inch Business Model
May 25th 2011 - Nissho Electronics have demonstrated a new 52 inch 3D TV without glasses model based on lenticular lens technology. Designated the BDL5231-3D2R, the LCD TV is capable of 2D to 3D conversion and works at full HD 1080p, with the lenticular lens delivering 15 image sweet spots.
Sounds great, though the first models will only be released to the business market rather than to home users, and at a price of around $20k. Technical details include an 8ms response time, 60 Hz refresh rate, and a 2000:1 contrast ratio. Early reports suggest the set cannot deliver the same level of sharpness and deep 3D images that you can get with the best of the current with glasses 3D TVs.UK Sports Fans To See UEFA League Final in 3D
In what could be a huge testimonial to the quality of their 3D TV without glasses solution, iPONT International are partnering with the Walkabout Australian bar chain to display the UEFA Champions League football final on May 28th in a bar in Covent Garden, London. The match will be shown on a 65 inch no glasses TV which uses the iPONT 3D TV Box solution that promises a wide angled 3D sporting extravaganza.
The 3D TV Box will also be demonstrated at the Screenmedia Exposition at Earls Court, London on May 18th and 19th 2011.
New Solution Under Development For No Glasses 3D
May 9th 2011 - There is another potential solution under development for no glasses 3D viewing, which differs from the parallax barrier and lenticular lens solution. This latest development from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology focusses on technology which is looking to solve the main problem of restricted viewing angles.
It needs a lot more work, but you can see a video showing the potential here....
70 inch glasses free display from Innovision
April 19 2011 - Korean based company Innovision have demonstrated one of the biggest yet glasses free 3D displays in Japan. The 70 inch no glasses 3D screen is reported to deliver near perfect 3D imaging irrespective of the viewers position.
Toshiba bigger screen models within a year?
April 2011 - Toshiba have announced they anticipate releasing 40 inch plus size without glasses sets within a year. We can probably expect more detail at the CES show in early 2012.
One down - Samsung rule out 3D TV without glasses for 2011
Mar 18 2011 - Major Japanese manufacturer Samsung has stated they have no plans to launch 3D TV without glasses models in 2011, citing quality issues as the reason behind their decision.
Samsung's stance may come as a surprise as they've already demonstrated a prototype 55 inch LCD 3D TV no glasses model in China, though with 9 viewing angles the set doesn't come close to Samsung's utopia of a 32 viewing angle model. It seems they believe it'll be at least three years until the sets are commercially viable at the right quality level.
Japanese display the world's largest 3D TV that doesn't require glasses
Feb 2011 - a 200 inch no glasses display has been demonstrated in Japan. The display works by using multiple projectors set up behind it to project images at different angles. The display of course won't be suitable for home viewing, but at least it shows that no glasses 3D TV technology is definitely on the move. This could be the first step towards a successful future for 3D TV without glasses in small screen devices.
Feb2011 Mobile Smartphone to deliver 3D without glasses
LG plan to launch their Optimus 3D smartphone - using the same display technology as the Nintendo 3DS - at the Mobile World Congress show in Feb 2011.
Toshiba sales lower than expected
Feb 2011 - Toshiba reported sales of 500 no glasses sets in December 2010 - 500 fewer than expected.
Jan 2011 - New manufacturer Team ACX announce autostereoscopic model Vibrante 3DX-24
Jan 2011 - New mobile 3D devices creating no glasses 3D TV potential - Nintendo announced today that the 3D capable Nintendo 3DS may be launched with the potential of receiving 3D video content via wi-fi, courtesy of Sky.
Jan 2011 - Toshiba demo prototype large screen no glasses 3D TV models at CES 2011 in Las Vegas.
Jan 2011 - LG and Sony both announce prototype non glasses models at CES 2011.
Viewing angle problem solved? Jan 6 2011 - Technology firm iPONT will reveal the first 3D solution this week that allows viewing from a wide angle, and without the need for glasses.
New range of no glasses 3D TVs from eLocity Jan 2011 - Manufacturer eLocity announce a line up of no glasses 3D devices this month, including their 3T 'without glasses' range of TVs.
3D TV Guide Site Articles
Stream TV No Glasses 3DTV Solution
Stream TV Networks are rapidly becoming a credible player in the market, with announcements in August 2012 of a partnership with the Chinese TV manufacturer Hisense.
The partnership is promising a without glasses solution based on Ultra-D technology. TVs are fitted with a Seecube Auto Converter which converts both 2D and 3D (designed for use with glasses) images into no glasses 3D. The solution is expected to be able to convert 2D imaging from a range of different sources.
The first model is likely to deliver a 42 inch 1080p display which will compliment Hisense's range of Smart Cinema 3D Tvs. Hisense also plan to make the technology available later in a range of other devices, including smartphones and tablets.
The IFA show of 2012 will see the first public demonstration.
Philips No Glasses Models
Following hot on the heels of Toshiba comes Philips with their 42 inch BDL4251VS model. The Dutch manufacturer have teamed up with Dimenco and claim their set delivers the sharpest, most vivid no glasses 3D images seen so far. It achieves this by using 28 lenticular views. But the model isn't a fully fledged TV, it's a monitor which of course can be hooked up to various sources to display 3D images.
Mobile 3D TV - A Better Option?
With the arrival in 2011 of the Nintendo 3DS portable games console, you can guarantee that throughout 2011 there will be heavy focus on small screen mobile 3D TV technology. The proven capability of small screen units to deliver high quality 3D imaging is likely to place these models at the top of the no glasses tree, and the 3DS could well be the catalyst that opens up mass acceptance of 3D entertainment in general. Nintendo are reportedly already in discussion with a number of the major Hollywood studios to be able to deliver movies such as How To Train Your Dragon and Walt Disney's Tangled.
Of course, successful 3D viewing on a small screen device won't give the immersive experience you get at the cinema or from a high quality big screen TV, but it is almost certain that if the 3DS console turns out to be as successful as initial sales results suggest, then it will have a major impact on driving further focus on development of larger display full no glasses 3D TV models.
LG are already working on a 4.3" 480x900 resolution mobile prototype 3D display that needs no glasses.The unit uses parallax barrier technology, with LG claiming new enhancements that reduce crosstalk, and an improved wider viewing angle.
Stream TV Networks are rapidly becoming a credible player in the market, with announcements in August 2012 of a partnership with the Chinese TV manufacturer Hisense.
The partnership is promising a without glasses solution based on Ultra-D technology. TVs are fitted with a Seecube Auto Converter which converts both 2D and 3D (designed for use with glasses) images into no glasses 3D. The solution is expected to be able to convert 2D imaging from a range of different sources.
The first model is likely to deliver a 42 inch 1080p display which will compliment Hisense's range of Smart Cinema 3D Tvs. Hisense also plan to make the technology available later in a range of other devices, including smartphones and tablets.
The IFA show of 2012 will see the first public demonstration.
Philips No Glasses Models
Following hot on the heels of Toshiba comes Philips with their 42 inch BDL4251VS model. The Dutch manufacturer have teamed up with Dimenco and claim their set delivers the sharpest, most vivid no glasses 3D images seen so far. It achieves this by using 28 lenticular views. But the model isn't a fully fledged TV, it's a monitor which of course can be hooked up to various sources to display 3D images.
Mobile 3D TV - A Better Option?
With the arrival in 2011 of the Nintendo 3DS portable games console, you can guarantee that throughout 2011 there will be heavy focus on small screen mobile 3D TV technology. The proven capability of small screen units to deliver high quality 3D imaging is likely to place these models at the top of the no glasses tree, and the 3DS could well be the catalyst that opens up mass acceptance of 3D entertainment in general. Nintendo are reportedly already in discussion with a number of the major Hollywood studios to be able to deliver movies such as How To Train Your Dragon and Walt Disney's Tangled.
Of course, successful 3D viewing on a small screen device won't give the immersive experience you get at the cinema or from a high quality big screen TV, but it is almost certain that if the 3DS console turns out to be as successful as initial sales results suggest, then it will have a major impact on driving further focus on development of larger display full no glasses 3D TV models.
LG are already working on a 4.3" 480x900 resolution mobile prototype 3D display that needs no glasses.The unit uses parallax barrier technology, with LG claiming new enhancements that reduce crosstalk, and an improved wider viewing angle.
3D TV Without Glasses
But things are changing, although slowly. The recent developments in passive 3D TV technology - superbly demonstrated in the LG Cinema 3D TV range - have helped solve some of these problems with the introduction of cheaper and lighter passive glasses. Prices of the TVs are coming down gradually. But the need to wear glasses still remains. It's still a problem, even though there are some good designer 3D glasses now available, and many TV industry insiders believe we won't ever see 3D TV entertainment become mainstream until affordable and high quality 3D TV without glasses models become widely available.
The two main breakthrough technologies that solve this problem of no glasses 3D TV are known as parallax barrier or lenticular lens technology. These methods of delivering 3D TV without glasses are also known as autostereoscopy, and the 3D TVs that deliver them are built using what's termed as 'autostereoscopic screens'. LG's blog post 'A 3D Future Without Glasses' explores the two technologies in more detail.
Recent developments in head tracking 3D technology give us a third solution, where a built in webcam locks on to a viewers eyes and displays the split in images required for that viewer to 'see' in 3D - adjusting the images emitted from the display as the viewer moves.
Further to this the Hungarian technology firm iPont 3D are working on development of the 3D TV Box, a device that promises a fourth and potentially superior method of delivering no glasses 3D TV in a unique way. This solution uses their technology to send an image through the box to an autostereoscopic TV set with reportedly very good quality results. Conversion technology is another new solution, and will be demonstrate at the IFA show in Berlin in early September 2012.
As of August 2011, none of the methods of delivering no glasses 3D TV have been perfected and picture quality cannot currently rival that of the 3D glasses technologies. The problem is that in most circumstances we need to be able to watch TV content from multiple different positions and still get the 3D effect, and with the no glasses models seen so far there's a requirement to sit at an optimal position (height and distance from the display) or the 3D effect is lost.
But all is not lost. Manufacturers continue on research and development in the search for the holy grail of 3D TV and an autostereoscopic display manufacturer known as 3DFusion demonstrated in mid 2011 a significant breakthrough with their 3DFMax 3DTV technology. This allows you to adjust the depth of the 3D images and watch in 3D at the level of your personal preference - without glasses.
An August 2011 development has seen a team of researchers in Korea looking at a solution that uses minute prisms on an OLED display. OLED means Organic Light Emitting Diode, and because of the way these work (light is supplied by organic compounds in conjunction with electric energy) it's possible to manufacture them to be much thinner, lighter, and with more flexibility than other display types.
It's pretty much guaranteed that the major manufacturers will find a way to give us without glasses 3D TV within the next few years - at a price that's affordable and a quality that makes it all worthwhile. Even Apple might be the one to crack it - they filed a without glasses 3D patent in late 2010 that suggests the technology giant has an interest in a head tracking solution.
It's been the developments in mobile 3D TV which have delivered the first successful and affordable options for watching without glasses. For now though, the first mover advantage for delivering large screen models sits with Toshiba.........
The two main breakthrough technologies that solve this problem of no glasses 3D TV are known as parallax barrier or lenticular lens technology. These methods of delivering 3D TV without glasses are also known as autostereoscopy, and the 3D TVs that deliver them are built using what's termed as 'autostereoscopic screens'. LG's blog post 'A 3D Future Without Glasses' explores the two technologies in more detail.
Recent developments in head tracking 3D technology give us a third solution, where a built in webcam locks on to a viewers eyes and displays the split in images required for that viewer to 'see' in 3D - adjusting the images emitted from the display as the viewer moves.
Further to this the Hungarian technology firm iPont 3D are working on development of the 3D TV Box, a device that promises a fourth and potentially superior method of delivering no glasses 3D TV in a unique way. This solution uses their technology to send an image through the box to an autostereoscopic TV set with reportedly very good quality results. Conversion technology is another new solution, and will be demonstrate at the IFA show in Berlin in early September 2012.
As of August 2011, none of the methods of delivering no glasses 3D TV have been perfected and picture quality cannot currently rival that of the 3D glasses technologies. The problem is that in most circumstances we need to be able to watch TV content from multiple different positions and still get the 3D effect, and with the no glasses models seen so far there's a requirement to sit at an optimal position (height and distance from the display) or the 3D effect is lost.
But all is not lost. Manufacturers continue on research and development in the search for the holy grail of 3D TV and an autostereoscopic display manufacturer known as 3DFusion demonstrated in mid 2011 a significant breakthrough with their 3DFMax 3DTV technology. This allows you to adjust the depth of the 3D images and watch in 3D at the level of your personal preference - without glasses.
An August 2011 development has seen a team of researchers in Korea looking at a solution that uses minute prisms on an OLED display. OLED means Organic Light Emitting Diode, and because of the way these work (light is supplied by organic compounds in conjunction with electric energy) it's possible to manufacture them to be much thinner, lighter, and with more flexibility than other display types.
It's pretty much guaranteed that the major manufacturers will find a way to give us without glasses 3D TV within the next few years - at a price that's affordable and a quality that makes it all worthwhile. Even Apple might be the one to crack it - they filed a without glasses 3D patent in late 2010 that suggests the technology giant has an interest in a head tracking solution.
It's been the developments in mobile 3D TV which have delivered the first successful and affordable options for watching without glasses. For now though, the first mover advantage for delivering large screen models sits with Toshiba.........
The Toshiba Models - No Glasses 3D TV Using Lenticular Technology
In October 2010 Toshiba announced the impending arrival of the first commercially available 3D TV without glasses models - on sale in Japan only, and in 12 inch and 20 inch models. Clearly this move was targetted at early adopters, and was the first step towards proving that 3D TV without glasses was going to be technically and commercially viable.
Aside from the price, one drawback of the new models was the need to sit close to the screen to get the 3D effect - users needed to sit within a 40-degree range directly in front, and also two feet in front of the 12-inch 3D TV and three feet in front of the 20-inch. This issue of positioning became even more apparent during the demos at CES 2011 of Toshiba's larger screen prototypes which have only three 3D viewing angles, though reports suggest that the 3D effect was impressive as long as you were in the right spot to get it (Toshiba had floor positions marked out). There was a problem with general image sharpness, despite the high resolution of the display. Resolution was a problem because the need to show multiple perspectives uses a significant number of pixels.
These Toshiba REGZA no glasses 3D TV models actually went on sale towards the end of December 2010, and it's taken Toshiba almost a year to follow up with the promising REGZA 55ZL2 model which went on sale in Japan first in mid December 2011.
The issues seen in the first sets have been largely ironed out, and with Toshiba building in 2D and 3D capability they look sure to gain an early mover advantage in the no glasses 3D TV market. Clearly though, effective (and low cost) high quality 3D TV without glasses has some way to go. As we'll find out with our first look at the initial large screen model.
Toshiba 55 inch 55ZL2 Without Glasses Model
The 2011 IFA - the world's largest trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances held in early September each year - saw the first public demonstration of Toshiba's stunning new no glasses 3D TV. Labelled in Europe as the 55ZL2, it's known in Japan as the 55X3.
The 55 inch LED backlit, lenticular screen TV works with Full Quad HD (FQHD) resolution displaying 3840 x 2160 pixels. Amazingly that's four times as many pixels as a 1920 x 1080p 3D TV. Don't expect too much though. The maximum resolution supported currently by the 3D movies themselves is 'just' 1820 x 720, so 4k is a bit of overkill.
The 3D effect is delivered via lenticular lenses which create nine different perspectives or views of each single 3D frame - a sheet of convex lenses on top of the display controls how light emits from it and delivers the images at an angle to each eye - thus creating the difference in images our brain needs to 'see' in 3D. Lenticular lenses have another benefit in that they make it possible to see multiple different images from multiple angles, in effect allowing more than one person to view at the same time.
Early reports suggest it doesn't quite deliver the same immersive experience you get with active shutter 3D sets or even some of the passive sets, although 2D is expected to be of ultra high quality thanks to the Full Quad HD. Having said that, the model is the best yet seen using a without glasses solution.
Toshiba are attempting to solve the problem of viewing positions by use of the TVs CEVO-ENGINE which uses a face tracking solution to detect positions of the viewers. This uses a camera positioned below the display which recognises how many people are watching and where they're seated in order to deliver the 3D images so everyone gets the same effect. The face tracking feature is enabled by a button on the remote control.
Aside from it's 3D imaging capability, the 55ZL2 3D TV also offers full Smart TV functions via connection to the Toshiba online solution, known as Toshiba Places. The model also offers control over backlit LED screen to allow for accurate colors and strong black levels, along with networking capability and a USB HDD that gives the option of recording two programs at the same time. REGZA tablets can also be connected as another content source.
Japanese consumers are going to be the first to find out just how good it really is, with an expected sales release in Japan around mid December 2011.
The 55ZL2 is expected to sell for around $11000 or roughly £7400, a price tag that makes it look unbuyable. However Toshiba will have studied their potential market, and there will be buyers. In fact they're targetting sales of around 1000 per month initially, with that figure growing when consumers outside Japan get the chance to buy. There's no current news on availability dates outside Japan, though the CES show early in 2012 should give us come concrete news.
You can get a first look at the potential of Toshiba's 55ZL2 3D TV without glasses model in this video.........
In October 2010 Toshiba announced the impending arrival of the first commercially available 3D TV without glasses models - on sale in Japan only, and in 12 inch and 20 inch models. Clearly this move was targetted at early adopters, and was the first step towards proving that 3D TV without glasses was going to be technically and commercially viable.
Aside from the price, one drawback of the new models was the need to sit close to the screen to get the 3D effect - users needed to sit within a 40-degree range directly in front, and also two feet in front of the 12-inch 3D TV and three feet in front of the 20-inch. This issue of positioning became even more apparent during the demos at CES 2011 of Toshiba's larger screen prototypes which have only three 3D viewing angles, though reports suggest that the 3D effect was impressive as long as you were in the right spot to get it (Toshiba had floor positions marked out). There was a problem with general image sharpness, despite the high resolution of the display. Resolution was a problem because the need to show multiple perspectives uses a significant number of pixels.
These Toshiba REGZA no glasses 3D TV models actually went on sale towards the end of December 2010, and it's taken Toshiba almost a year to follow up with the promising REGZA 55ZL2 model which went on sale in Japan first in mid December 2011.
The issues seen in the first sets have been largely ironed out, and with Toshiba building in 2D and 3D capability they look sure to gain an early mover advantage in the no glasses 3D TV market. Clearly though, effective (and low cost) high quality 3D TV without glasses has some way to go. As we'll find out with our first look at the initial large screen model.
Toshiba 55 inch 55ZL2 Without Glasses Model
The 2011 IFA - the world's largest trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances held in early September each year - saw the first public demonstration of Toshiba's stunning new no glasses 3D TV. Labelled in Europe as the 55ZL2, it's known in Japan as the 55X3.
The 55 inch LED backlit, lenticular screen TV works with Full Quad HD (FQHD) resolution displaying 3840 x 2160 pixels. Amazingly that's four times as many pixels as a 1920 x 1080p 3D TV. Don't expect too much though. The maximum resolution supported currently by the 3D movies themselves is 'just' 1820 x 720, so 4k is a bit of overkill.
The 3D effect is delivered via lenticular lenses which create nine different perspectives or views of each single 3D frame - a sheet of convex lenses on top of the display controls how light emits from it and delivers the images at an angle to each eye - thus creating the difference in images our brain needs to 'see' in 3D. Lenticular lenses have another benefit in that they make it possible to see multiple different images from multiple angles, in effect allowing more than one person to view at the same time.
Early reports suggest it doesn't quite deliver the same immersive experience you get with active shutter 3D sets or even some of the passive sets, although 2D is expected to be of ultra high quality thanks to the Full Quad HD. Having said that, the model is the best yet seen using a without glasses solution.
Toshiba are attempting to solve the problem of viewing positions by use of the TVs CEVO-ENGINE which uses a face tracking solution to detect positions of the viewers. This uses a camera positioned below the display which recognises how many people are watching and where they're seated in order to deliver the 3D images so everyone gets the same effect. The face tracking feature is enabled by a button on the remote control.
Aside from it's 3D imaging capability, the 55ZL2 3D TV also offers full Smart TV functions via connection to the Toshiba online solution, known as Toshiba Places. The model also offers control over backlit LED screen to allow for accurate colors and strong black levels, along with networking capability and a USB HDD that gives the option of recording two programs at the same time. REGZA tablets can also be connected as another content source.
Japanese consumers are going to be the first to find out just how good it really is, with an expected sales release in Japan around mid December 2011.
The 55ZL2 is expected to sell for around $11000 or roughly £7400, a price tag that makes it look unbuyable. However Toshiba will have studied their potential market, and there will be buyers. In fact they're targetting sales of around 1000 per month initially, with that figure growing when consumers outside Japan get the chance to buy. There's no current news on availability dates outside Japan, though the CES show early in 2012 should give us come concrete news.
You can get a first look at the potential of Toshiba's 55ZL2 3D TV without glasses model in this video.........
As you can see it's an impressive start for Toshiba's 55X3 no glasses 3D TV. The delivery of 3D images is certainly good and it could be the first in a long line that come without the unpopular glasses.
But at over $11000, it remains to be seen whether Toshiba make their 1000 sales a month target. Remember that larger screen models have always been expected to be priced proportionately higher in the early stages of availability.
But at over $11000, it remains to be seen whether Toshiba make their 1000 sales a month target. Remember that larger screen models have always been expected to be priced proportionately higher in the early stages of availability.
On the left is CNETTV's video of the Sony no glasses 3D TV prototype model, as demonstrated at CES 2011. Sony used a wide viewing angle to showcase its capabilities, proving that viewers did not need to stand directly in front of the TV. However, the presenter mentioned during the report that it would be unlikely to be seen commercially any time soon.
However the Sony demo model surfaced again at CES2012 in the guise of a 4k resolution, 46 inch display set. Reports suggest that viewing angles were flexible with reasonable results from varying watching positions, and images were sharp with strong levels of clarity. There was virtually no crosstalk.
Youtube carries a series of other no glasses 3D videos.
However the Sony demo model surfaced again at CES2012 in the guise of a 4k resolution, 46 inch display set. Reports suggest that viewing angles were flexible with reasonable results from varying watching positions, and images were sharp with strong levels of clarity. There was virtually no crosstalk.
Youtube carries a series of other no glasses 3D videos.
Learn how 3D TV works
Easy to follow guide to the 3D TV technology used to deliver 3D imaging. Answering the question 'how does 3D TV work?'
Discover the parts that make up the 3D experience.
Revealing what you need to watch 3D TV - an introduction to the TV sets, Blu Ray players, and glasses.
The why, what, how, where, and when of buying a 3D TV.
The top 'need to know' facts you'll want to consider when looking to buy a 3D TV.
Where can I get more info on 3D TVs, Blu Rays, glasses etc
One of the best ways to get good information on any subject is by participating in forum discussions. Here you'll find a good choice of 3D TV forum threads chosen for their interesting discussion value.
Copyright 3DTVGuide.org 2012
Easy to follow guide to the 3D TV technology used to deliver 3D imaging. Answering the question 'how does 3D TV work?'
Discover the parts that make up the 3D experience.
Revealing what you need to watch 3D TV - an introduction to the TV sets, Blu Ray players, and glasses.
The why, what, how, where, and when of buying a 3D TV.
The top 'need to know' facts you'll want to consider when looking to buy a 3D TV.
Where can I get more info on 3D TVs, Blu Rays, glasses etc
One of the best ways to get good information on any subject is by participating in forum discussions. Here you'll find a good choice of 3D TV forum threads chosen for their interesting discussion value.
Copyright 3DTVGuide.org 2012
This video from Which gives us a look at different models unveiled in September 2011 at the IFA show in Berlin.
November 22nd 2012
Breaking News & Developments....
Aug 2012 - Stream TV and Hisense in New No Glasses Solution Development Partnership
Stream TV Networks are rapidly becoming a credible player in the market, with announcements in August 2012 of a partnership with the Chinese TV manufacturer Hisense. Their first no glasses model will be demonstrated at the 2012 Berlin IFA show.
Jan 2012 - Toshiba To Release No Glasses Model In US
Toshiba have confirmed they have plans to release their 55ZL2 in the US early in 2012.
The set has already seen a release in Japan and Germany, and Toshiba clearly believe they have a winner on their hands.
The Toshiba 55ZL2 is likely to set US buyers back at least $10,000. At that price anyone who wants to enjoy no glasses 3D is going to need to know how to win money to be able to afford it.
Jan 2012 - New Steam TV No Glasses Solution
Labelled ' Ultra-D Technology, Stream TV are presenting 2D to 3d conversion that promises high quality 3D conversion of multiple forms of content.....read more on Stream TV no glasses 3D...
Dec 2011 - New MasterImage Cell Matrix Paralladx Barrier Displays
The 2012 CES show should see some interesting developments in without glasses 3D by Masterimage 3D, though only with small screen versions where it's easier to get the sweet spot just right..
Their cell matrix parallax barrier displays are similar to those used in the Nintendo 3DS, and we'll see some 7 inch and 10 inch models demonstrated soon.
Archived Developments....
Aug 2012 - Stream TV and Hisense in New No Glasses Solution Development Partnership
Stream TV Networks are rapidly becoming a credible player in the market, with announcements in August 2012 of a partnership with the Chinese TV manufacturer Hisense. Their first no glasses model will be demonstrated at the 2012 Berlin IFA show.
Jan 2012 - Toshiba To Release No Glasses Model In US
Toshiba have confirmed they have plans to release their 55ZL2 in the US early in 2012.
The set has already seen a release in Japan and Germany, and Toshiba clearly believe they have a winner on their hands.
The Toshiba 55ZL2 is likely to set US buyers back at least $10,000. At that price anyone who wants to enjoy no glasses 3D is going to need to know how to win money to be able to afford it.
Jan 2012 - New Steam TV No Glasses Solution
Labelled ' Ultra-D Technology, Stream TV are presenting 2D to 3d conversion that promises high quality 3D conversion of multiple forms of content.....read more on Stream TV no glasses 3D...
Dec 2011 - New MasterImage Cell Matrix Paralladx Barrier Displays
The 2012 CES show should see some interesting developments in without glasses 3D by Masterimage 3D, though only with small screen versions where it's easier to get the sweet spot just right..
Their cell matrix parallax barrier displays are similar to those used in the Nintendo 3DS, and we'll see some 7 inch and 10 inch models demonstrated soon.
Archived Developments....
• Introducing The Toshiba No Glasses 3D TV Models
• Without Glasses 3D Technology - Discover The Solutions & How They Work
• Stream TV Models
• Philips No Glasses 3D Monitor
• Without Glasses 3D Technology - Discover The Solutions & How They Work
• Stream TV Models
• Philips No Glasses 3D Monitor
Everyone recognises that the need to wear 3D glasses is one of the major barriers to the mass acceptance of 3D TVs as a truly popular entertainment medium. 3D glasses are uncomfortable for some, and the need to wear them means you'll need multiple pairs if watching with friends or family.
Add the problem of cost, not only of the glasses themselves at over $100 a pair for the active shutter versions used on most sets, but also of the 3D TVs themselves with an obvious price premium over standard HDTV 2D sets, and it's easy to see why many of us have been reluctant to jump in and buy a 3D TV at an early stage........
Add the problem of cost, not only of the glasses themselves at over $100 a pair for the active shutter versions used on most sets, but also of the 3D TVs themselves with an obvious price premium over standard HDTV 2D sets, and it's easy to see why many of us have been reluctant to jump in and buy a 3D TV at an early stage........
3D TV Without Glasses & How It Works - Parallax Barrier & Lenticular Lens Technology - Examining The Solutions That Solve The Problem of 3D Glasses
