The Speculist

3-D Computing Arrives

Sharp has released a notebook computer with a built-in (no-glasses-required) 3-D display. According to WiredNews:

The computer, dubbed the Actius RD3D, also displays two-dimensional images. It's selling on the Sharp Systems of America website for $3,300, or about three times the sum for an entry-level laptop.

Industry analysts say Sharp's release could boost interest in 3-D imaging, which up to now has lured few viewers and required customers to use special aids. Sharp's offering is the first notebook computer in the United States that lets customers automatically view 3-D images without wearing special glasses or downloading software, analysts say.

So far, the Japanese have taken a lead in this technology. Japanese electronics maker NEC said it would release a 3-D-enabled notebook computer in Japan next year. Sharp already sells a cell phone that displays 3-D pictures in Japan. A year ago, 100 companies, including Sharp, Sony, Sanyo, Toshiba and the Japanese division of Microsoft, formed a coalition called the 3D Consortium to brainstorm ways to bring 3-D products to market. One goal: making sure the various companies' products work together.

Okay, 3-D display sounds pretty cool. But what's the point?

[I]n the future Web merchants could use 3-D graphics to show off their products, or gamers could play even more realistic first-person shooters.

Sharp also sees uses by the medical industry. A doctor who normally would wear 3-D goggles could view a patient's organs directly on the screen.

The medcal applications sound good, but I think I'm to old to enjoy 3-D gaming. I developed my computer gaming skills in the era of Galaxian and then Galaga; the closest to 3-D I ever got was Q*bert. The games today are already too 3-D if you ask me. My daughter won't even let my play with her any more; all I do is run into walls and go "Huh?"