Toshiba announced a new technology that allows 3D images on a flat-screen display, without the need of any special goggles. The technology will be marketed for video arcades by end of 2006, and for consumer appliances (televisions etc.) by 2010. The 3D displays have small lenses in front of each pixel, allowing different images to be seen depending on the point of view. That way, different images are sent to different viewpoints, thus creating a 3D effect. The technology will be displayed at the 1st International FPD Expo in Tokyo next week.

Drinks, anyone? (Courtesy: GeekBlue)In the real world, we are able to see true 3D (which includes depth perception), since our two eyes get slightly different images. Also the brain enhances our perception, by using past memories/experiences. 3D goggles operate on the same principle, by supplying slightly different images to the two eyes.
The prototype 3D screens (15.4-inch 480x400 pixels, and 24-inch 480x300 pixels) use 12 or 16 slightly different views of the same object or scene. The different views are then processed, and projected onto the lens in front of the pixels, which sends slightly different scenes in different directions. Currently, the technology only supports pictures, but Toshiba will soon extend it to videos, both real/live and computer-generated.
This technology promises to revolutionize gaming, as it is simple, and yet manages to give a much more immersive experience :):).