Sony subsidiary MotionPortrait have been demonstrating their latest 3D technology: automatically creating a 3D graphic from a 2D photo of a person’s face. The system – also called MotionPortrait – can identify the mouth, eyes and other features of the human face, and in two seconds construct a 3D representation of that face which can be manipulated, rotated, or even overlaid on top of video clips.
Video demos after the cut
In addition to the Xbox LIVE updates, Microsoft also announced their much-rumored motion controller at E3. Named the Microsoft Xbox 360 Project Natal – pronounced “nuh-tall” – it combines an RGB camera, depth sensor, multi-array microphone and custom processor all in one compact bar, which can track gamers’ movements in 3D space as well as respond to verbal commands.
Update: Video after the cut
Internet-connected TVs and other home media devices could soon see a boost, as the new HDMI 1.4 standard bundles not only video and audio support but data capabilities too. HDMI 1.4 can support data rates of up to 100MB/s, effectively replacing a standard 10/100 ethernet cable, as well as introducing bi-directional audio (aka “upstream audio”) and HD support up to 4096 x 2160.
LG have unveiled a 23-inch LCD monitor which, the company claims, could pave the way for low-cost 3D computing and entertainment. The full-HD 1080p panel uses traditional time-sequential split-image technology to offer individual views of each image for each eye, which the brain combines into a 3D whole. However, by integrating this 3D technology into the panel itself, LG can make the panel brighter and reduce the complexity in the accompanying viewing glasses.
Video demo after the cut
Microsoft’s Xbox 360 webcam could be announced as early as at E3 next month, according to the latest sources talking to the WSJ, using 3D camera technology believed to have been acquired when the company bought start-up 3DV Systems. 3DV developed the ZCam, a 60fps 3D-capable camera that is reportedly low-cost, and which can track a gamers movements and gestures.
NVIDIA’s GeForce 3D Vision system was one of the most surprising demonstrations at CES this year, relying on a special display and glasses to offer headache-free 3D gaming. Now that same desktop technology could soon be available to mobile gamers, with rumors that Wistron are developing a notebook version for HP machines that will ship later this quarter.
After what’s seemed like an age in “technical demo” status, the release version of 3D desktop system BumpTop has been launched. claiming to offer the look and feel of a “real desktop”, BumpTop allows users to organize themselves into more intuitive piles, groups and stacks. It also has a physics engine that lets you throw or slide files or folders around.
The ATI FirePro V7750 graphics accelerator was announced by AMD yesterday and it’s definitely a great choice for those that require high quality graphics for their chosen professions like scientists and engineers. It includes OpenGL 3.0 support and 1GB of frame buffer memory, for starters.
Back in June last year, SlashGear was invited to spend time with animation studio DreamWorks and see the work they and HP had done on Kung Fu Panda. At the time, it was difficult to imagine a more complex and processor-intensive setup, but DreamWorks have managed to one-up themselves in 2009 with Monsters vs. Aliens. Set to hit theaters across America this weekend, Monsters vs. Aliens is the first full-length production from the team in 3D. SlashGear was invited back to find out exactly what’s involved in making 50ft monsters leap out of the screen.
Video and gallery after the cut
Vuzix have announced [pdf link] an augmented-reality (AR) add-on kit for their Vuzix VR920 video headset, developed in collaboration with AR specialists metaio. The system will initially be demonstrated with a 3D animated book, that has computer-generated characters, but Vuzix believe it has potential applications in gaming, education and travel.
SlashGear Japan
