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OmniVision template could lead to more Glass-like wearable displays
Not every tech company can afford to build a head-mounted display from scratch; thanks to OmniVision's new OmniGlass reference design, they won't have to. The template combines a 0.26-inch, 720p liquid crystal on silicon display with a 4-megapixel camera and an imaging chip, giving firms most of what they'd need to craft a Google Glass-like wearable computer beyond the computer itself. Don't anticipate a flood of me-too products just yet, though. OmniGlass developer kits and sample units are available today, but mass production won't start until the second quarter of 2014.
Sony reveals midrange VPL-HW30ES 3D projector on the way (Update: US pricing)
We all know you deserve to live the projector lifestyle, but fitting Sony's first home projector with 3D -- the $10k (MSRP) VPL-VW90ES that launched last fall -- into one's budget might be a little tough. Now the company is launching the "affordable" VPL-HW30ES for the rest of us this year, featuring some of the same 240Hz SXRD tech in a cheaper package. There's no word yet on pricing or a ship date here in the US, but Europe and Japan get it next month with a pricetag of 370,000 yen ($4,626 US) in the latter. That lower price nabs specs like a claimed 70,000:1 contrast ratio and 1,300 lumens of brightness and all the picture adjustment settings befitting a product rocking the Elevated Standard tag, along with an upgraded 3D system to reduce crosstalk. 3D compatibility is achieved with Sony's new lighter active shutter 3D glasses and an add-on IR sync device that are both sold separately -- no complex lens switching necessary. Update: Sony sent over the US press release with pricing ($3,699) and other information, check it out here.
Micron introduces V100 LCOS projector, WQVGA in an 8.5cc package
Projector-phones are still a rare commodity, despite the array of tiny projectors available to shove in the things. Micron is now beaming a picture of its hat into the ring, announcing the V100 LCOS projector. It's a wee thing, measuring just 33 x 31 x 12mm, pumping out five lumens of light at a resolution of 320 x 240 while pulling down just 1.5 watts of power. The big deal here is integrated circuitry that takes care of any processing required to display images, meaning no additional drain on your already over-taxed mobile processor. No word on availability or what this will cost manufacturers to stuff in their devices, but we'd like to see a few more pixels out of it before it goes mainstream.
JVC intros new entry level D-ILA projector plus several 3D models
Even outside of its budget busting $175k 4K projector, even JVC's "consumer" lineup of D-ILA projectors have remained outside the price range of most, but that changes with the DLA-HD250 line (pictured), which brings its LCoS technology home for less than $3,000. Its more typical $5k and up crowd will want to cast an eye towards the other projectors announced today at CEDIA 2010, most of which include 3D capability with IR synced active shutter glasses and preset 3D profiles to match whatever screen you happen to already be using. The lamp and optical technology has also been reworked for 2010 to provide plenty of brightness when you're watching 3D and up to a 100,000:1 native contrast ratio, and the more expensive models have even more settings for color management. Specs and pricing information are in the press releases after the break.%Gallery-103117%
HDI CEO admits that smaller laser 3D HDTVs could become a reality, 103-incher coming in June
We've been waiting on Woz's favorite 3D display ever to ship for quite some time, and as of now, no delays have been seen. According to a new interview with HDI CEO Ingemar Jansson, the June ship date for its 103-inch, laser-based monster is still on track, with a $10,000 price tag being placed on it when ordered "in volume." Frankly, there's not much here that we haven't already heard about the new face of 1080p 3D in the home; what is new, however, is the mention that smaller versions could very well be on the horizon. Regardless of whether you're man or woman enough to admit it, a 103-inch set is far too large for the vast majority of homes, so a 46-inch iteration -- which was mentioned specifically in the dialog -- could be a perfect alternative. There was no time table or estimated price given for the smaller version(s), but you can bet we'll be keeping an ear to the ground for more. Oh, and if you don't think an HDTV upstart can give Sony, Sharp and Samsung a run for their money, there's a "Mr. Vizio" in the back room that would like to have a word with you.
AAXA intros L1 laser pico projector / media player
It's claim on the title of "world's first laser pico projector" might be a tad dubious, but AAXA Technologies' new L1 projector may just be the first to hit the market, with it set to start shipping on February 12th. Like other laser-based models, this one promises to always stay in focus, and even project images (800 x 600, up to 50-inches) on curved surfaces with ease. Somewhat uniquely, you'll also get a built-in media player, along with the usual USB port, memory card slot, and composite and VGA inputs to actually pump media through the device. Just don't expect the same low, low price seen on some other pico projectors lately, as this one's set to run a hefty $599.
RoyalTek outs RPJ-2000 pico projector
Taiwanese company RoyalTek's just announced the first of what will apparently be five pico projectors it releases in 2010. The RPJ-2000 boasts 3M's second generation LCoS chipset, VGA and NTSC / PAL inputs, and 0.5 watt speakers. The projector can project a 65-inch image at 640 x 480 resolution with 14 lumens of brightness. Disappointingly, there is no onboard storage or media player on this little guy, but we're betting one or more of those other models RoyalTec is set to unleash probably will have those glorious extras. If you want to use this baby with a Mac, you'll need to purchase an adapter kit which runs around $43, in addition to the $315 pricetag of the projector itself. There's no word on sale of the RPJ-2000 outside of Taiwan as of yet, but we'll keep you posted.
HDI's laser-driven 3D HDTV hits production, should ship next year
When we first caught wind of HDI's "world's first laser-based 3D HDTV," we were cautiously hopeful that it'd be ready to go (at least as a prototype) at CES 2010. Looks like we may actually get our wish, as the company has today announced that its magical set has reached the manufacturing stage. What's it all mean? It means that the set is being fast-tracked for release in 2010, meaning that you're just months away from having stereoscopic 1,920 x 1,080 content in your living room... provided there's actually any programming to view, that is. Of course, it'll handle the 2D stuff too, and the twin RGP LCoS micro-display imagers in there ought to provide plenty of crisp imagery regardless of the source. We're still not sure if the Woz-approved 100-inch version that's being shown to curious onlookers is the size that'll be pumped out to the mainstream, but we're hoping for at least a few smaller siblings for those of us with last names other than Kennedy, Gates, Buffet and Ellison. %Gallery-76899%
JVC's trio of consumer-ish projectors still make wallets weep
Did we mention that CEDIA was a whirlwind of activity? There are a few bits of good stuff we didn't manage to get our HD hands on, including the new JVC projectors aimed at folks who just can't swing the mortgage-busting $175,000 for the company's pick o' the litter. The DLA-RS35, DLA-RS25 and DLA-RS15 are available through the "professional channels" CEDIA targets, but the equivalent DLA-HD990, DLA-HD950 and DLA-HD550 are in the consumer lineup. Everyone of the 1080p, D-ILA beamers gets the 120-Hz treatment, HQV Reon video processing, motorized lens zoom and focus, horizontal and vertical lens shifts and of course, ISF calibration modes so you can get things tweaked just so. Sounds great, but you can't expect JVC to deliver this feature set on the cheap -- $5,000 for the HD550, $5,500 for the RS15, $8,000 for the RS25 or HD950, and an even $10,000 for the RS35 or HD990.
Anthem unveils its LTX 300, LTX 500 projectors
We first heard about Anthem getting into the projector game at CES, and now it's all come together. Both the LTX 300 and LTX 500 LCOS beamers feature 1080p resolution, electronic lens shift, and a coupon for half-off your first (cue ominous music) bulb replacement. Deep-pocketed cinephiles who step up to the LTX 500 also get two trigger functions (no need to get up for the screen or that anamorphic lens on a motorized sled), THX mode, and full tweakability on the RGBCMY drives. Seriously, a killer demo is a big factor for this level of gear, and this move lets Anthem dealers demo a soup-to-nuts system -- electronics, screen and beamer can all be demoed and loaded into the shopping cart with one-stop convenience. Don't forget the audio while your out shopping either; we're sure something from Anthem's sister company, Paradigm, should be jaw-droppingly good enough to keep up with your new cinema. Full PR and more pics after the break.
Canon intros medical intern-ready LCOS projectors
On one hand, Canon talks up the REALIiS WUX10 Mark IID and SX80 Mark IID -- handy names -- projectors' DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) simulation mode that promises to properly display grayscale images. On the other, it says that these projectors are not approved for diagnosis purposes. So, consider this pair of LCoS beamers as something for the medical students and interns out there who are mastering the interpretation of shadows in medical images. They'll probably pull duty for HT applications as well, but the medical affiliation won't come for free; for reference, the consumer grade and non-"Mark IID" badged WUX10 and SX800 models list at $13,000 and $2,500, respectively.
LitPhone projector phone, new pocket PJs surface in Hong Kong
Outside of Samsung's W7900 Show and a few nondescript prototypes, the projector phone sector has been largely stagnant. Thankfully, it seems at least one no-name company is looking to make a name for itself by developing yet another entrant. The LitPhone, designed and showcased by China's own SCT Optronics, is a GSM handset that sports CMMB TV tuning, a touchscreen and a built-in projector with an undisclosed native resolution. Furthermore, the company also demonstrated its USB-powered PCLit mobile projector at the Hong Kong Electronics Fair, which debuted alongside Join Technology's JP77 and WE3 Technology's WE8626. Have a glance at the whole bundle down in the read link -- just don't get those hopes too high about a US release date anytime soon.
Epoq's HH07 pico projector now on sale in US
Calm down, vaquero. You've definitely seen this sucker before, but it was rockin' the BeamBox Evolution R-1 label and headed for a release across the pond. Epoq's iteration, however, is on track for a US release, and in fact, it can be ordered up right this moment for those interested. Specs wise, you're looking at a 640 x 480 resolution, 30 lumens of brightness, a 100:1 contrast ratio, SD card slot, a USB port and a size of 108- x 59- x 28-millimeters. Get in line for "just" $339.95.[Via AboutProjectors]
Canon unveils REALiS SX800 LCoS projector with 3,000 lumens
Canon's REALiS SX800 LCoS projector may not have the highest resolution in the world -- it's stuck at SXGA+ (1,400 x 1,050), for those wondering -- but it sure is bright. Designed to light up board and / or living rooms with ambient light seeping in, the projector features a 3,000 lumens display and a contrast ratio of 900:1. It's also housing next-generation 0.55-inch LCoS reflective LCD panels, a Canon 1.5x zoom, Auto Input Signal, 2:3 pull down and an 11-pound chassis. If that's right down your alley, it'll be available this month for $2,499.[Via AboutProjectors]
3M's MM200 micro projector seeks integration within cellphones, cameras
The MPro110 has picked up some pretty positive vibes in the burgeoning pico projector market, but 3M is already looking well beyond that. At this year's CES, the company is debuting the LCoS-based MM200, a micro projection engine that is destined to find its way into cellphones, handheld accessories and digital cameras of the future. Reportedly, the device can project a 50-inch image while only drawing a single watt of power, and best of all, it'll be "available for consumer purchase in 2009." Yeah, as in, this year. One more look is after the break.
Nextar hops on the bandwagon with Z10 LCoS micro projector
Just in case counting every last pico projector on or coming to the market was too easy for you, Nextar's hoping to boggle your hippocampus by adding one more to the furiously growing list. The outfit's LCoS-based Z10 is being launched alongside the equally portable PS-001 20-inch screen, and it'll check in weighing under 2.5-pounds and boasting a 640 x 480 resolution. As for additional specifications, you're looking at a brightness level between 7 and 12 lumens, a 360-degree lens shift capability with manual adjust and a 4:3 aspect ratio. To its credit, it will accept a litany of file formats and can be fed data via microSD / TF cards, a USB port and L/R audio ports. Both products are slated to hit retailers in the Spring for $299.99 and $39.99 in order of mention, and you can catch two more looks and the full release just after the break.
Castrade's CV-MP01 LCoS VGA projector fits in a wine glass
See there? It really fits in a wine glass, which means this diminutive PJ is well suited for any random underground movie marathons you've got rolling around in the back of your mind. The LCoS-driven beamer can only output in VGA (640 x 480) and packs just ten lumens of brightness, but with a shell this small, we're willing to forgive most of the obvious drawbacks. You'll find an obligatory AV input as well as built-in speakers, but there's no mention of a price just yet. In fact, call us when you've managed to get 1080p out of something this size -- then you'll have our full, undivided attention.[Via FarEastGizmos]
Eco-friendly, well-connected HDTVs to be all the rage at CES 2009
The writing has definitely been on the wall, but CES 2009 is poised to be the showcase for energy-efficient HDTVs. With manufacturers jumping out of the woodwork to trumpet their compliance with Energy Star 3.0, TWICE expects a slew of top-tier TV manufacturers to boast about low power consumption numbers, and considering that a bunch of 'em will be demonstrating LED or OLED-based sets, we aren't surprised to hear it. Potentially more interesting, however, is the notion that "a number of plasma makers are expected to get into the power-savings act with models that significantly reduce draw levels in big-screen displays, taking away another advantage often cited by LCD TV competitors." In related news, we're expecting a record number of internet-connected sets, as TV manufacturers look to steal away market share currently held by STB makers. Sure, we won't see any panel size records shattered, but we're already giddy at what Vegas will hold in just under a month.
Sony rolls out VPL-GH10 SXRD projector for industrial types
So let's say you're an industrial-type who needs a projector for your simulation or visualization "setup" (aka your home theater), but Sony's SRX-T110 / SRX-T105 4k x 2k models are a bit overkill (or over-budget) -- what do you reach for? Sony's new VPL-GH10 model might be just the thing. Packing a more modest 1920x1080 pixels and Sony's 120Hz Motionflow technology with dark frame insertion, you should get crispy images, even during the most intense Call of Duty sessions. Motorized lens shifts, adjustments via Ethernet and a DVI interface for connection to honest-to-goodness image generators round out the package. Heck, those motorized lens shifts alone might make your couch-potato self eye this model over the VPL-HW10; just know the price is sure to be targeted more towards "industrial" than "consumer" use when it shows up this spring.
Cineversum intros $6,500 BlackWing One 1080p projector
If the BlackWing Three was just a touch too rich for your blood, yet you dug what Cineversum had going on, have a look at this. The BlackWing One 1080p digital video projector relies on three 0.6-inch LCoS panels (all with a 1,920 x 1,080 native resolution, obviously) and comes pre-calibrated for optimal performance right out of the box. Additionally, it features a 15,000:1 contrast ratio, 1,400 ANSI lumens, two HDMI 1.3 sockets, an RS-232 control port and a "futuristic deep metallic-black ABS plastic chassis" designed by France's own Antoine Béon. The first batch is scheduled to hit North America in mid-December for $6,500 apiece, but those up for spending more can have their unit splashed with a custom color.
