Panasonic, Sony and Samsung have joined hands with Xpand of Europe (a major 3D glasses supplier), for the development of a common, Bluetooth-enabled 3D ‘active glasses' and 3D display technology for TVs and PCs.

As a result, 3D glasses purchased for one of the three brands of TV can go well with other brands too – and hence this is a significant development in the evolution of 3D-based television and computer viewing at homes.

‘Active glasses' are those in which the production of 3D image lies substantially in the glasses the viewer wears, as opposed to ‘passive glasses' where the 3D image production function is mostly embedded in the television set.

Industry observers see this as a measure to compete with LG Electronics, which uses ‘passive' 3D technology, where the glasses are cheaper and lighter. LG, which was also using the “active 3D technology”, has recently shifted to ‘passive technology' with the launch of ‘3D Cinema' – a new range of 3D TVs.

Mr Rohit Pandid, Business Head (AV), LG India, says a pair of passive glasses costs only Rs 1,000 to the consumer, compared with between Rs 5,000 and Rs 10,000 of ‘active glasses'.

The new ‘universal' 3D glasses are expected to be launched before the end of next month. Ms Ruchika Batra, spokesperson of Samsung India, says the very idea is to standardise the technology “aimed at consumer convenience”.

Mr Manish Sharma, Director – Marketing and Sales, Panasonic India, says the initiative will “enable us to make significant contribution” to growth of 3D TV market, which is in favour of ‘active glasses'.

Expensive glasses have been a major impediment for the growth of the 3D TV market. The new initiative should result in drop in prices of these active glasses in the market because of consequent increase in production volume. As a result, 3D TV market will grow much faster, say industry observers.

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