Toshiba Unveils Glasses-Free 3D TV

But consumers may not fall for its whopping 20-inch screen
By Nick McMaster,  Newser Staff
Posted Oct 4, 2010 2:50 PM CDT
Toshiba Unveils Glasses-Free 3D TV
The Toshiba Regza 20GL1, a 3D TV set that doesn't require viewer to wear special glasses, is shown in a promotional photo.   (AP)

Toshiba has unveiled what it's calling the first glasses-free HDTVs for consumers. The Toshiba Regza TV, which comes in 20- and 12-inch models, achieves its technological feat by using an extra optical sheet covered with "perpendicular lenticular" arrays; it bends the light to make a 3D image visible at one of nine "sweet spots."

But the devil is in the details, notes Fast Company—the optimal viewing distance for the 3D effect is only 3 feet, which will make group watching awkward, especially on a 20-inch screen. Then there's price—the 20-inch model is to sell for $2,900, and the 12-inch for $1,450. (More 3D television stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X