IFA 2010 – BERLIN. Philips is set to launch the world’s first glasses-free 3D TV as early as 2013 and the company is showing a working prototype in Berlin. Also on display is the full HD 3D LED TV in the Cinema 21:9 Platinum Series.
Philips has been working on glasses-free 3D TV for a number of years. Demos were given all around the world, also at IFA in Berlin since 2007. Interestingly, the company decided to give up this type of 3D development just before the outbreak of the 3D craze in April 2009. The demo on Berlin is done by Dimenco, a company that was spun off from Philips.
3D development was taken over by Dimenco, which was founded by four former Philips employees who have worked together in this venture of Philips that focused on 3D technology. After discontinuation by Philips these employees have taken the step to start their own 3D venture. Since then a good relationship with Philips has been established. Dimenco is focused on glasses free 3D display technology and 3D content creation tools. Maarten Tobias, CEO Diemco, said: “With former Philips 3D experts Dimenco is able to provide the best 3D viewing experiences today without the need for special 3D glasses”.
According to Dimenco, a consumer type receiver should become available with three to five years, so this could be as early as 2013. Professional glasses-free display could become available within an even shorter time-frame.
Dimenco offers end-to-end 3D autostereocopic solutions with their unique knowledge and skills. This includes autostereoscopic 3D displays, components, rendering solutions, software and content conversion services. Tobias added: “Dimenco currently aims at applications for the business market. Think of casinos, media companies operating in the signage market, cinemas and other companies that use interactive 3D Technology. Furthermore, Dimenco provides consultancy services to several leading industry players.”
Dimenco believes that the consumer market as a future step offers many opportunities. Tobias: “We expect consumers to experience 3D digital photo frames without the need to wear glasses soon. For other consumer markets, such as 3D game consoles and 3D TV, this will take a couple of years still to further optimise the technology.”
Meanwhile, Philips itself hopes to have the 3D HDTV version of the Cinema 21:9 in the shops before the end of the year.
