Audio Video News

The Consumer Electronics Association is putting its considerable standard-setting might behind an effort to bring 3D video into the home.

Various forms of 3D film have had a spotty history dating back to the 19th century. It came into wide use in the 1950s, even attracting the attention of Alfred Hitchcock, who used it in Dial M for Murder. It's staged several comebacks since then including Disney's 2007 release of Meet the Robinsons.

CEA's 3D Video Discovery Group will meet for the first time in October, aiming to "accelerate the market for 3D video use and prevent potential interoperability problems," according to the press release.

"Currently, movies are being produced and shown in 3D in cinemas with advances in digital cinema improving the experience," said Brian Markwalter, CEA vice president, Technology & Standards. "Pre-packaged content and games have the storage and processing power to deliver 3D video, and televisions are available today that can render 3D content. Standards ensuring 3D content is usable to the maximum extent by consumers will benefit the industry."

Big players in TV are already paying attention. Mitsubishi recently partnered with Nvidia to create 3D games for a Windows Vista media server. They'll be compatible with all Mitsubishi DLP sets.

3D eyewear photo courtesy of Oz 3D Optics of Australia.