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Playstation 3D Display hits shelves November 13, Sony answers your burning questions

Joe Pollicino — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:59:00 EST

We'd imagine come November 13th, the above will be the scene inside many a PS3 owner's house. That's when Sony's hot little 24-inch PlayStation 3D display will officially be available in the US, Canada, Europe and parts of Asia. Sony took to its US PlayStation Blog today with the news, along with a lengthy FAQ to keep your GAS at bay in the meantime. If you'll recall, the 240Hz 1080p display packs a single set of component inputs, two HDMI 1.4 ports, stereo RCA outputs, a headphone jack, an integrated subwoofer, and of course, 3D-capability with supported titles. For five hundred bucks you'll get the PS 3D Display, one pair of USB-rechargeable 3D Glasses ($70 for each additional pair), a copy of Motorstorm: Apocalypse and even an HDMI cable. Notably, its fancy (and exclusive) SimulView feature will let two sets of 3D shades grab either the left or right side feed in supported 3D games for a private 2D view. Disappointingly, this puppy isn't wall-mountable, but hey, that 24-inch panel surely makes it ideal for a desktop setup, no? Full details at the links below, along with a refresher shot of those 3D specs just past the break.

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Playstation 3D Display hits shelves November 13, Sony answers your burning questions originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vuzix Wrap 1200VR video eyewear does 3D with head-tracking for $600, now available

Joe Pollicino — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 17:52:00 EST

If you scored yourself Vuzix's Wrap 1200 side-by-side 3D video eyewear last month, you may want to know the company's VR variant is now available for $600 (about 100 bones more). With the Wrap 1200VR, you'll again be viewing a simulated 75-inch, 3D (or 2D, if you'd prefer) 16:9 display at ten feet away. The shades feature a single 852 x 480 monitor per eye and support input resolutions of up to 1280 x 720. The VR bit comes from the included Wrap Tracker 6TC with compass, which enables head-tracking with three degrees of freedom. Better yet, its coupled drift control should maintain silky smooth visuals when you're tilting your noggin' to scope out the on-screen action. Out of box, these specs are said to play nice with most Windows machine's graphics cards and VGA connections, but adapters are required to rock them with your PS3 or Xbox 360. If your eyes are already tearing up with joy, you'll find full details in the PR just past the break.

Update: We initially reported the that the Vuzix Wrap 1200VR outputs video in simulated 720p, when it actually supports input resolutions up to 1280 x 720 -- both WVGA monitors have a resolution of 852 x 480. We've updated this post accordingly.

Continue reading Vuzix Wrap 1200VR video eyewear does 3D with head-tracking for $600, now available

Vuzix Wrap 1200VR video eyewear does 3D with head-tracking for $600, now available originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 17:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LG's 'Dual Play' TVs let gamers share a single screen, different perspective

Lydia Leavitt — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 16:21:00 EST

Challenging Sony's PlayStation 3D display, LG's new LW980T "Dual Play" TV lets Xbox users see two different views on the same screen -- ditching the standard split gaming view. Spotted this week at IFA, the technology requires a pair of snazzy all-right / all-left passive specs and a compatible 3D Xbox game to get two different 2D perspectives on one TV. Compared to Sony's $499, 24-inch active-shutter offering, the 47-inch and 55-inch passive 'tubes are significantly larger and more expensive, rumored to retail for £1799 (or $2915) and £2499 (or $4050), respectively. According to sources, this feature will join LG's lineup of Cinema 3D displays sometime in September -- offering gaming as well as LG's SmartTV and 3D movie support. Hey gamers, since we're not splitting up anymore, is it safe to say we can stay "in a relationship" on Facebook?

LG's 'Dual Play' TVs let gamers share a single screen, different perspective originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Sep 2011 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony London Studio chief talks 3D lessons, promises VR headsets

Joseph Volpe — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 02:07:00 EST

Haven't settled in to 3D PS3 gaming just yet? Too bad because Sony's ready to leapfrog that industry buzzword with another once-vaunted, immersive tech of yore -- virtual reality. Announced ahead of Sony London Studio chief Mick Hocking's Develop conference "3D post-mortem speech," comes word the Japanese electronics giant is underway with R&D testing for a head mounted display. Shown off at CES earlier this year, the unit incorporates twin-OLED screens that put you closer to the game, fried eyeballs and all. If any of this sounds familiar, that's because it's all very 1995. Still, Hocking seems pretty optimistic about the company's lessons learned dipping its toes into three-dimensional waters, and has even created a so-called "3D 10 Commandments" to ensure quality product output. Hit the source below for the UK division head's full 3D musings.

Sony London Studio chief talks 3D lessons, promises VR headsets originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 02:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony's 24-inch PlayStation 3D 'dual-view' monitor: here's how it works

Sean Hollister — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:33:00 EST

Sony's got some wonderful ideas here at E3 2011, but the company's left quite a few threads for journalists to sew up -- what's the battery life like? How much will continuous client gameplay cost? Just how does that split-screen 3D monitor work? Sony's 3D gaming czar Mick Hocking flew in from Liverpool to talk stereoscopy with the press, and we've got some answers for that last one. What you see above is an LCD panel that refreshes at 240Hz, and delivering 3D at 60 frames per second to each eye, by using the typical active shutter glasses technique of blocking light to your left eye when the "right" image is displayed, and vice versa for the right eye. However, the glasses have a special button that makes both lenses of one player's glasses display images for the left eye, and both lenses of another player display images for the right, allowing each to have their own 60fps feed all the time for private split-screen gaming.

While that potentially means you could use these glasses on non-Sony 3DTVs too and get the same effect (or, you know, just pick up a Sharp Quattron 3D or Vizio Versus, which do much the same thing). Hocking told us that this particular unit also does additional software processing to reduce ghosting. But what of games? The 3D guru said there'll be a number of titles supporting the feature when the monitor hits this fall, and that other 3D titles could potentially (and easily) be patched if they also support split-screen to begin with. Hocking says developer enthusiasm's been particularly intense for split-screen, even more so than the holographic and head-mounted display technologies that Sony's working on, and we may see the feature integrated in Bravia televisions should the idea take off.

Sony's 24-inch PlayStation 3D 'dual-view' monitor: here's how it works originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony to remaster select PSP titles for PlayStation 3, allow cross-device continuous gameplay

Richard Lai — Mon, 23 May 2011 04:24:00 EST

As much as you love your PSP, we suspect that its low graphics definition is starting to bug even the most devoted fans. Sure, you can wait for the almighty NGP, but for the time being, Sony's offering the next best thing for you game connoisseurs: the PSP Remaster series for PlayStation 3. As the name says for itself, Sony will be porting select portable game titles to the PS3 in high-def Blu-ray flavor, and some may even come with new add-on content plus stereoscopic 3D support. But that's not all: gamers will also be able to share game save data between the two platforms, meaning you can pick up where you left off on your preferred device. Pretty neat, though it'll be interesting to see how much Sony and the studios wants to charge for what are essentially the same games you already own. The first PSP Remaster title announced is Monster Hunter Portable 3rd, but this is only heading to Japan at an unknown date -- gamers in other countries will just have to keep squinting at the PSP for now.

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Sony to remaster select PSP titles for PlayStation 3, allow cross-device continuous gameplay originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 May 2011 04:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sports Illustrated 'Swimsuit in 3D' video now available on PlayStation Network, Qriocity

Richard Lawler — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:34:00 EST

With the advent of the internet, the release of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue isn't quite the event it once was, but even an old dog can learn new tricks and the magazine has partnered with Sony to issue a 3D video version this year. It's currently available (also in 2D, if that's your preference) for download to your PlayStation 3 ($9.99 purchase / $4.99 rental, and there's a short free preview avialable as well) or other Sony network connected hardware with Qriocity. Other than the behind the scenes 3D video, there's also twelve hours of other Swimsuit issue content from this and previous years and some exclusive PSN themes.

Continue reading Sports Illustrated 'Swimsuit in 3D' video now available on PlayStation Network, Qriocity

Sports Illustrated 'Swimsuit in 3D' video now available on PlayStation Network, Qriocity originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony announces Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception with 3D support

Richard Lawler — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 23:48:00 EST

Sony is serious about using videogames to push its 3D agenda, and the latest title it's announced to feature support is Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception. One of the top series on its PlayStation 3 console, it's not hard to figure out why this would join Killzone 3 and Gran Turismo 5 on the 3D shelf when it's released November 1st, 2011. Check out the trailer from the VGA's after the break and if you need more information, there should be some unveiled tonight on the Jimmy Fallon show.

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Sony announces Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception with 3D support originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 23:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony working on same-screen 3D multiplayer, holographics for PS3?

Darren Murph — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 13:41:00 EST

Don't go knockin' Sony for resting on its laurels. The company that has spearheaded the 3D gaming push (NVIDIA notwithstanding) is apparently not even close to finished, with SCEE studio director Mick Hocking taking the time to get our juices flowing in an interview with Develop. The full spill is quite lengthy, and definitely a solid read for those interested, but a few key nuggets jumped out at us. For starters, Mike confessed that Sony has "techniques like holographics for the PS3 that [he thinks] will be very interesting for the future 3D games," and continued with this: "In regards to that we have some new technology that we've shown to developers that uses 3D techniques, it allows two players to play full screen multi-player games but without each being able to see the others view, and they have been massively keen on them." Of course, such a technique isn't exactly new -- we saw prototypes of the sort in use back at GDC -- but bringing them to a market as vast as the PS3 owner pool would definitely be a monumental step. Now, if you'll excuse us, we've got a Gran Turismo 5 disc laying here that needs our undivided attention for the time being...

Sony working on same-screen 3D multiplayer, holographics for PS3? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Nov 2010 13:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NBA 2K11 3D for PS3 launched as Best Buy timed exclusive today

Richard Lawler — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 19:11:00 EST

Just when we thought we were getting out from under the spectre of exclusive 3D releases on Blu-ray we're hit with one from a very unexpected source in the form of an exclusive NBA 2K11 3D for PS3 SKU, available only at Best Buy. The only apparent difference in this version is its support for stereoscopic 3DTVs (not the first sports title this year to do it, Madden 2011 features anaglyph 3D on any TV with a code, but really, why try?), but for now you won't be able to get it anywhere else. Already have the game or plan on pick it up elsewhere? Expect a software update adding 3D to all PS3 versions (no cross-platform 3D for the Xbox 360 version on this one, leave that to Call of Duty: Black Ops and Crysis) in January according to Ron from 2KSports, for now enjoy the new trailer for the 3D version (embedded) and expect a post on the official PlayStation Blog.

NBA 2K11 3D for PS3 launched as Best Buy timed exclusive today originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 19:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony adds 3D movies, videos to PlayStation Network

Richard Lawler — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 21:02:00 EST

While we wait for more 3D on the way on Blu-ray or from Sony's 3D Net channel that will debut next year, add another option to the mix: PlayStation Network. A poster on AVSForum spotted the new category on their PS3 a few days ago, currently offering Monster House for rental at $4.99, while a Bon Jovi video and trailer for the previously mentioned 3D Net are free downloads. Curiously, only stereo audio is currently available on any of them, and the 720p Monster House file is only a 4GB download. The picture quality still seemed relatively sharp and without ghosting, but we'll need to compare it to the Blu-ray to see how much was lost in the transition.

Gallery: 3D Videos on PlayStation Network

Sony adds 3D movies, videos to PlayStation Network originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 31 Oct 2010 21:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Call of Duty: Black Ops adds 3D to its list of features on PC / PS3 / Xbox 360

Richard Lawler — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 19:24:00 EST

3D gaming has been around on the PC for a while, and has become more prevalent on recent and upcoming releases for the PlayStation 3 since it's system update and Sony's overall 3D push, but now Call of Duty:Black Ops is adding to those lists and the significantly shorter list of 3D games for the Xbox 360. Our friends at Joystiq were among the outlets that got a chance to go hands on with the Xbox 360 version, which joins other 3D titles like last year's Avatar game and the upcoming Crysis from EA on the system, so check them out for first hand impressions. As far as the technical specs, 3D is only for HDMI-equipped Xbox 360s, and Activision's 3D FAQ points out that using the dashboard in 3D won't work properly since it hasn't been updated for that yet. Curiously, the Xbox 360 version uses side-by-side compressed frames for its 3D while the PS3 version is top-bottom like ESPN 3D. So far developer Treyarch hasn't shown off any other 3D editions so we'll have to wait until release to see if there's any noticeable difference but the only thing that's certain when it comes to Call of Duty is seeing Editor Emeritus Ryan Block stalking the Team Hardcore rooms round the clock.

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Call of Duty: Black Ops adds 3D to its list of features on PC / PS3 / Xbox 360 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony's PlayMemories app brings 3D photos to your PlayStation 3

Donald Melanson — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 05:14:00 EST

This wasn't mentioned among the other 3D-related PS3 announcements Sony made during its Tokyo Game Show press conference last week, but it looks like the company has another little bonus in store for those that just can't get enough 3D. It's just announced a new PlayMemories application that will be available as a free download in "late September," and will let you view both 2D and 3D photos captured with a 3D-compatible camera (including Sony's NEX-5/NEX-3, WX5 and TX9). No peek at the app itself just yet, unfortunately, but we're guessing it'll be available any day now -- it is technically late September, after all.

Continue reading Sony's PlayMemories app brings 3D photos to your PlayStation 3

Sony's PlayMemories app brings 3D photos to your PlayStation 3 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 05:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 update 3.50 adds 3D Blu-ray movie support starting September 21

Thomas Ricker — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:58:00 EST

We're live from Tokyo Game Show where Sony just announced a version 3.50 software update coming to the PS3 on September 21st. On that date, we'll finally get 3D Blu-ray movie playback, in Japan at least, but likely worldwide.

Read more at our liveblog.

PS3 update 3.50 adds 3D Blu-ray movie support starting September 21 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PlayStation 3 could get 3D depth slider à la the 3DS

Vlad Savov — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 06:06:00 EST

How will sir be having his gimmick today? The devs behind the upcoming Sly Cooper 3D compilation are wisely mulling over the idea of inserting a 3D-adjusting slider to let users decide just how much stereoscopy they want with their Sony-approved gaming. It's argued that this should allow you greater positional flexibility when smacking fools down in three dimensions, as you'll be able to manually toggle the depth of the 3D effect to suit your viewing angle. We were happy to see such an option introduced in the Nintendo 3DS at E3 and would similarly welcome its inclusion on the PS3 -- though that's no foregone conclusion as yet. All we can say for sure right now is that the stuff is adjustable, but it looks like it'll be up to devs to roll their sleeves up and integrate the slider into their games. Hey, it's the summer, not like they've got anything else to do, right?

PlayStation 3 could get 3D depth slider à la the 3DS originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 06:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony restricts stereoscopic PS3 games to 720p 3D

Sean Hollister — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:32:00 EST

Sorry, fellow gamers, we're out of luck if we want to play stereoscopic PS3 titles in their full high definition glory -- Joystiq reports that Sony guidelines won't allow for 1080p 3D. As we discovered in April, the goal is to run even native 1080p content at a lower 720p resolution when splitting the image in twain, allowing enough processing overhead for a smooth 60fps framerate and likely reducing eyestrain. Mind you, it's not like there are many occasions when you'd have cause to complain -- even in two dimensions, native 1080p titles on modern consoles are few and far between. Exempt from the specification are 3D Blu-ray movies, which run at a slower (but larger) 1080p24 by default, so rest assured that when you're being tortured with Clash of the Titans repeat viewings, you'll see every glorious detail.

Sony restricts stereoscopic PS3 games to 720p 3D originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PlayStation Blu-ray 3D update arrives in September; 3D photo, PlayTV and YouTube support to follow

Richard Lawler — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:26:00 EST

Just in case you weren't really sure how deep into this 3DTV thing Sony is, senior director of Sony Europe Mick Hocking announced the PS3's update for Blu-ray 3D movie playback will be released in September -- but it won't stop there. Expect future firmware upgrades that give the PS3 3D rendering for photos (.mpo files), any broadcasts it can pick up on PlayTV, and even YouTube videos. Not running out the door to buy one yet? CVG reports the rest of the presentation was devoted to extolling the virtues of 3D to hardcore gamers in racing games, God of War, or LittleBigPlanet. Demos so far haven't completely convinced us the PS3 is capable of rendering games in high enough resolution to satisfy, but if Fat Princess 2 features a good 3D implementation, someone hide our credit cards, please.

Filed under: Gaming, Home Entertainment

PlayStation Blu-ray 3D update arrives in September; 3D photo, PlayTV and YouTube support to follow originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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US PlayStation 3 gets four 3D titles starting tomorrow

Ross Miller — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 15:38:00 EST

Perhaps the PlayStation Network needed to be down in order to add extra dimensions -- whatever the case, Sony just announced that tomorrow will usher in the first quartet of PS3 titles to support stereoscopic 3D. Not too shocking, as it happens to be the same day Japanese gamers get the same deal. Entrees include WipEout HD, Super Stardust HD, Pain, and a demo of MotorStorm: Pacific Rift. Looking to the future, PlayStation Move title The Fight: Lights Out will support 3D at launch. Of course you'll need a 3DTV to join the fun, but hey, looks like Sony's got you covered there, too.

US PlayStation 3 gets four 3D titles starting tomorrow originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Jun 2010 15:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PlayStation 3's first 3D title updates coming June 10th to Japan

Ross Miller — Mon, 31 May 2010 18:13:00 EST

Good news / bad news, folks. First with the smiles: PlayStation 3's first 3D-enabling updates are due out on June 10th for downloadable titles Super Stardust HD, WipEout HD, and Pain. The first two games get the added dimension for gratis, but Pain lovers (who should be accustomed by now to its abundant premium add-ons) will need to fork over ¥300 (approximately $3.28) for the benefit. The other stickler is that these updates are so far only announced for Japan -- and by merit of a Bravia promotion, Europe as well. So what's a North American gamer with a penchant for wearing special glasses to do? Keep waiting, true believers.

PlayStation 3's first 3D title updates coming June 10th to Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 May 2010 18:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GamePro leak reveals Killzone 3 will be in 3D

Richard Lawler — Sat, 22 May 2010 11:01:00 EST

Besides sports and movies, videogames are expected to be another huge driver for 3DTV, and Sony is apparently ready to get behind it with one of its showcase franchises for the PlayStation 3, Killzone 3. Featured as a cover story in this month's GamePro the entire game is compatible with today's 3D HDTVs using active shutter glasses (of course) but there's no exact word on the formats being used. Check the Gamespot forums or look for the issue on newsstands June 1 for more info.

GamePro leak reveals Killzone 3 will be in 3D originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 22 May 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PlayStation 3's 3D implementation explained, may require upscaling and reduction in detail to work

Vlad Savov — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 07:23:00 EST

It was only a couple of days ago that Sony flicked the switch on 3D compatibility for the PS3 -- albeit without retail games that can yet exploit it -- so what better time to dig into the nitty gritty details of the company's implementation of the third dimension? Digital Foundry have done just that, starting off with a discussion of how Sony translated WipEout HD from 2D into 3D. Noting that the original version ran at 1080p, Sony's senior development manager Simon Benson explains that notching resolution down to 720p opened up some pixel processing overhead (one 1080p stream requires nearly 2.1 million pixels, whereas a duo of 720p images is around 1.85 million in total), while reducing the refresh rate to 30Hz allowed the devs the breathing room to complete the extra geometric calculations required by 3D. That's certainly not the 1080p video at 100Hz per eye that we were hearing about at IDF last year, but at least it shows that games that haven't been coded for 3D can be translated, albeit at more demure settings.

In the case of Motorstorm: Pacific Rift, the game already ran at a 720p / 30fps clip, so the solution was to generate it at a lower resolution and to use hardware upscaling and a few optimizations to make 3D work. Lest you think the transition was all bad news on the graphical immersion front, the SCEE devs also mention that quite a few field-of-view and motion-illustrating effects could simply be disabled in 3D, as in that mode "you get [them] for free." Of course, we're still only talking about retrofitting 3D, and Sony's big hope is that developers will code for the new format right from the start, resulting in visually richer and technically more efficient implementations. Hit the source for more.

PlayStation 3's 3D implementation explained, may require upscaling and reduction in detail to work originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Apr 2010 07:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PlayStation 3.30 firmware is a go, 3D games support 'prepped'

Ross Miller — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 23:38:00 EST

When the PlayStation blog said firmware 3.30 -- you know, the one that "preps" the console for added 3D support (games for now, not movies) -- was "coming soon," we figured that meant some indeterminate day or week ahead. Not so; we just turned on our Sony consoles and, lo and behold, we got a new update sent our way. There's nothing you can do with the third dimension at this point, but take solace in a handful of Trophy enhancements. And Linux support? Don't be silly, it's not coming back.

PlayStation 3.30 firmware is a go, 3D games support 'prepped' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 23:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3's summer 3D firmware is all fun and games... and no Blu-ray movie support?

Ross Miller — Sat, 17 Apr 2010 15:33:00 EST

If you want you and your loved ones looking like the family pictured alongside this text, sitting in front of the TV gazing at 3D dolphins emanating from a PlayStation 3 through your television console, your best bet is to envision Ecco, not Flipper.* According to TechRadar, Sony has clarified that the summer firmware update to enable 3D applies to games only, and that 3D Blu-ray movie support will come with a second update due out later this year. We haven't been able to confirm the announcement ourselves, but suddenly, that freebie copy of Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 3D isn't looking so tantalizing.

* Hypothetically speaking, of course. We have no confirmation on a 3D version of Sega's Ecco the Dolphin or Season 3 of Flipper, featuring "The Most Expensive Sardine in the World."

PS3's summer 3D firmware is all fun and games... and no Blu-ray movie support? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 17 Apr 2010 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony UK's 3DTV launch includes a few free games to get early adopters started

Richard Lawler — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 20:59:00 EST

As the GMT turns, Sony's divisions are revealing their 3D plans for the rest of the year and the latest is its UK branch. The HX803 3D-ready model is first out the door in June, with LX903 and HX903 models arriving shortly afterward packing specs identical to their US cousins, with the addition of Freeview HD tuners and PAL-friendly refresh rates. Since the HX803 doesn't come with any of those 100-hour battery rated glasses , viewers getting ready for the 2010 World Cup will likely opt for one of the 3D accessory packs with two pairs included plus the necessary IR emitter. No word on prices for any of these yet, but PS3 owners who buy a new TV within the launch "limited period" can expect to vouchers with download codes for 3D-upgraded versions of four PSN games: PAIN (3 episodes), WipEout HD (full game), Motorstorm Pacific Rift (single level demo) and Super Stardust HD (full game). Movie heads get Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs and Deep Sea Blu-ray 3D discs bundled with unspecified "selected products," with the former going on sale by itself June 14. Check out all the details in the press release below or just refresh the Sony UK store until that preorder button shows up and we find out just how many pounds are needed to bring one home.

Continue reading Sony UK's 3DTV launch includes a few free games to get early adopters started

Sony UK's 3DTV launch includes a few free games to get early adopters started originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Apr 2010 20:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 3D video output turns up in 3.20 debug firmware

Donald Melanson — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 20:40:00 EST

We'd already heard that the PS3 wouldn't need anything more than a simple firmware update to make the jump to 3D, and it looks like we now have the first evidence of that very firmware update. It's obviously not ready for public consumption just yet, but a debug build of the 3.20 firmware is apparently now making the rounds among developers, and it quite clearly includes a "3D Video Output" option in the settings -- as evidenced by this image courtesy of VG247. Still no word of an exact release date for the firmware, unfortunately, although it should be out sometime this summer.

[Thanks, Richard]

PS3 3D video output turns up in 3.20 debug firmware originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 14 Feb 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 getting 3D firmware update this Summer

Paul Miller — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 16:45:00 EST

Get your active shutter glasses ready: your PS3 is going to go 3D this Summer. In conjunction with the release of its 3D BRAVIA LCD sets, Sony is planning to release updates to turn the PS3 both into a stereoscopic 3D gaming platform, in addition to a 3D Blu-ray compatible movie player. Sure, we knew Sony was planning to give us 3D sometime this year, but now that we've got a summer time frame we can plan our wardrobe decisions according -- jean cut-offs, here we come!

PS3 getting 3D firmware update this Summer originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony hedges on plans for PS3 update to enable 3D gaming on old titles

Paul Miller — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 14:16:00 EST

It's not a straight up rebuttal, but apparently Sony corporate is singing a different tune than what we heard from a Sony rep on the floor of IFA (multiple times) the other day: that all existing PS3 games would be playable in 3D after the software update next year. According to Sony, it's "conducting a technological investigation" as to the possibility of this, but claims there's "no plan for the market launch of this at this time." It makes sense that many titles -- especially ones designed with widely divergent game engines -- would be incompatible with a simple software update, but details are slim on how Sony is adding this function to its own games in the first place, so we'll have to wait to find out more. We do know the PS3 is going 3D in 2010, but as for available titles it looks like we're going to be in the dark for the time being -- though Ubisoft's upcoming Avatar game, along with a couple of Sony racing titles, are already shoe-ins for 3D presentation of some form.

Filed under: Displays, Gaming

Sony hedges on plans for PS3 update to enable 3D gaming on old titles originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 05 Sep 2009 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3's new 3D mode captured on video, coming in 2010 to all existing games

Paul Miller — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 07:47:00 EST

You know what's absolutely useless? A video of Wipeout HD being played in 3D, with some schmuck wearing 3D glasses and babbling on about how much fun he's having. Well, that schmuck is this Engadget editor, the video can be found after the break, and we've gotta say: we loved it. Especially for something like Wipeout HD, whose neon-infused tracks make for an almost too convenient example of rapidly approaching vanishing points, we'd say 3D could really be a quasi-"killer app" for consoles going forward -- especially if those fancy new motion controllers don't catch on for Microsoft and Sony. In many ways, 3D just seems to make more sense in a video game than for a movie, and the whole problem of finding content to deliver in the format has already been solved: a software update for the PS3 sometime in 2010 will enable it to provide a 3D viewing experience to "all" existing games on the system. We're sure there will be some exceptions, but it sounds very promising. The console itself pumps out a quite regular signal over HDMI, which the TV syncs up with your 3D glasses. A 200Hz TV, for instance, alternates 1080p frames, with 100Hz for each eye. Of course, you'll need a brand new TV, but at least it won't be restricted to just Sony televisions. Start saving those pennies!

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Filed under: Gaming, Home Entertainment

PS3's new 3D mode captured on video, coming in 2010 to all existing games originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 07:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Sony confirms it's 'bringing home 3D' starting in 2010

Ross Miller — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 22:41:00 EST

As it turns out, yesterday's report was spot-on. Sony today announced that it is bringing the experience of looking absolutely ridiculous in 3D glasses home to the living room. The initiative is "starting in 2010" and will expand through BRAVIA LCD HDTVs, VAIO machines, PlayStation 3, and Blu-ray discs... and not in the press release, but we clearly see a CyberShot digital camera in the promotional video (look out, Fujifilm). It's hard to say from the wording if all the listed product lines will go 3D next year, but from what we gather there'll at least be BRAVIA sets in time for that Christmas. Curious see the zaniest video this side of the second dimension? Well, we don't have that, but you can giggle your way through Sony's promo after the break.

Continue reading Video: Sony confirms it's 'bringing home 3D' starting in 2010

Filed under: Displays, Sony

Video: Sony confirms it's 'bringing home 3D' starting in 2010 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 22:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Sony confirms it's 'bringing home 3D' starting in 2010

Ross Miller — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 22:41:00 EST

Continue reading Video: Sony confirms it's 'bringing home 3D' starting in 2010

Filed under: Digital Cameras, Displays, Gaming, HDTV, Laptops

Video: Sony confirms it's 'bringing home 3D' starting in 2010 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 22:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony to debut 3D BRAVIA TVs by end of 2010, also eyeing 3D VAIOs, Blu-ray films, and PS3 games?

Ross Miller — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 20:06:00 EST

The Financial Times has it on good word what the major unveil in Sony chief Sir Howard Stringer's keynote tomorrow at IFA 2009 will, so much so that it's quoting him with phrases he hasn't even said yet. According to the report, the company is making a huge push into the third dimension, with 3D BRAVIA HDTVs hitting the retail channels by the end of 2010. Also on the menu is 3D-compatible PlayStation 3 titles (which we've kind of heard before), VAIO laptops, and Blu-ray movies, but it's unclear from the article if they shares the same 2010 timeline. Polarized glasses will be required for use, but hey, just consider it a fashion statement. We're now very anxious to see how close Sir Stringer sticks to this purported script for tomorrow's big event.

Filed under: Blu-ray, Sony

Sony to debut 3D BRAVIA TVs by end of 2010, also eyeing 3D VAIOs, Blu-ray films, and PS3 games? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 20:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony to debut 3D BRAVIA TVs by end of 2010, also eyeing 3D VAIOs, Blu-ray films, and PS3 games?

Ross Miller — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 20:06:00 EST

Filed under: Displays, Gaming

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3D glasses included in two new Disney games for Xbox 360, PS3 & Wii

Richard Lawler — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:35:00 EST

While you'll probably have to wait for James Cameron's Avatar for a proper stereoscopic 3D experience on consoles, Disney is readying two games this summer that will not only support anaglyph 3D (good news, it will work on any TV, bad news, it's the same low quality red/blue style 3D you've seen and ignored before), but come with two pairs of glasses packed in. Just continuing on the 3D hype its been dispensing to the kids with Jonas Bros. and Hannah Montana flicks both on the big screen and at home, highlighted most recently with Up and culminating in the upcoming Toy Story 1 & 2 3D remakes in October, Disney is clearly making an effort to work the technology in on every level with special 3D modes (no cheat codes necessary.) Toy Story Mania is a Wii-exclusive game due this fall based on the ride at its resorts, while G-Force brings spy guinea pigs to the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 July 21.

[Via Joystiq]

Filed under: Other formats, Other hardware

3D glasses included in two new Disney games for Xbox 360, PS3 & Wii originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 23:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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James Cameron's Avatar game coming in stereoscopic Sensio 3D on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360

Richard Lawler — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 21:42:00 EST

We'll admit it, we fell asleep during James Cameron's epic description of the game that will accompany his latest movie, Avatar, during E3 earlier this week, so we have no idea what it will be like. What we do know however, is that the movie is expected to be another leap forward for 3D technology, and apparently the game will be as well, now that Sensio has announced Ubisoft will deliver it in stereoscopic 3D. All that should be required is connecting one of the consoles to a Sensio-compatible TV (Panasonic's 3D Full HD Plasma Home Theater System was used to demo the game at E3, although its unclear if that was a special version) and a pair of 3D glasses.

Filed under: Other formats, Other hardware

James Cameron's Avatar game coming in stereoscopic Sensio 3D on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 21:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Game exec hints at 3D gaming on Sony's PlayStation 3 in 2009

Darren Murph — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 14:06:00 EST

Take this one with a sizable dose of salt, but one Neil Schneider, President and CEO of Meant to be Seen (MTBS), Blitz Games Studios, has made known that Sony "fully intends" to throw in its support for "stereoscopic 3D gaming and Blu-ray 3D on PS3 in 2009 with the Blitz Tech engine." Granted, MTBS is a stereoscopic 3D certification and advocacy group, thus the whole "salt warning." The meat of the story is that 3D gaming on consoles will likely need a BIOS upgrade to work with its technology, and that capability could be unique to Sony's PS3. Like we said, this here is far from carved in stone, but given how emphatically movie studios, cinemas and home entertainment companies are pushing the third-dimension on us, we wouldn't be surprised one bit to hear that the next installment of Madden is one that requires tinted glasses to fully enjoy.

[Via HDTV Expert]

Filed under: Industry, Misc, Other hardware, Sony

Game exec hints at 3D gaming on Sony's PlayStation 3 in 2009 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 14:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony patent app details motion sensing break-apart controller

Darren Murph — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:49:00 EST

We heard some pretty far-fetched stuff back in June to the tune of a break-apart DualShock 3, and lo and behold, it seems that someone at Sony Computer Entertainment America is taking the idea quite seriously. A recent patent application was filed by the company, and it fairly clearly lays out the very kind of design we'd (not really) been expecting. In essence, the gamepad would consist of two pieces, each of which would utilize an "ultrasonic tracking system" for some type of game console / peripheral to recognize 3D inputs. Best of all, the approach here sounds significantly different enough from what's used in the Wiimote that Sony could avoid months upon months of litigation -- imagine that, right? It's hard to say whether this stroke of genius will ever amount to anything, but at least there's a chance, however minuscule.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

Filed under: Gaming, Peripherals

Sony patent app details motion sensing break-apart controller originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In2Games shows off Gametrak Freedom: motion controller for Xbox 360 / PS3

Darren Murph — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 08:08:00 EST

We're tempted to say that peripheral makers are taking this whole motion controlling thing a touch too far, but we suppose there's no stopping "progress," huh? In2Games, the outfit that already sought to bring motion sensing to the PS2, has just unveiled the first image of its motion controller for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. The Wii Nunchuck-esque Gametrak Freedom is explained as being a "remarkable ultrasonic 3D motion sensing technology which delivers performance, control and flexibility far in excess of that offered by existing technologies." Supposedly, the device tracks the true 3D position and "precise movements of up to four players anywhere within a given environment," though it remains to be seen how much support it'll get from software developers. Initially, the controller will launch alongside undisclosed titles that can utilize the tech, but as for now, all you have to look forward to is Squeeballs. Yes, Squeeballs.

Filed under: Gaming, Peripherals

In2Games shows off Gametrak Freedom: motion controller for Xbox 360 / PS3 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Sep 2008 08:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony patents LED-infused, motion-tracking controller

Darren Murph — Thu, 14 Dec 2006 14:59:00 EST

While the PS4 might be "just around the corner," and Nintendo's Wiimote is sure to give you all the (potentially dangerous) controller flinging fits you can handle, it appears that Sony's giving the whole "controller innovation" thing another go. Sure, Sony's faced its fair share of lawsuits (hasn't everyone?), and had noticeable trouble with Dual Shock in particular, but the less-than-revolutionary SIXAXIS controller is apparently lacking a heavily-desired feature: motion tracking. We're fairly certain that Sony is watching its toes to make sure the next lawsuit to hit doesn't come from the big N, but its latest patent describes a "handheld controller having detectable elements for tracking purposes," which admittedly sounds awfully familiar. The design looks simply like a revamped version of the current SIXAXIS, with embedded LEDs on the front of the device and an "external camera (Sony's sensor bar patent?) to capture the movements" of the user. After combing through the patent jargon, there's little doubt that the goal here is to deliver a controller that allows gamers to maneuver and react with more than just button mashes, but whether or not this development will actually be realized (or if games / lawyers will end up supporting it) remains to be seen.

[Via Unwired View, thanks Staska]

Filed under: Gaming, Peripherals

Sony patents LED-infused, motion-tracking controller originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Dec 2006 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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