Wake Up: 3D Is No Silver Bullet Strategy For Adobe, Sony, Other Companies
Calling 3D technology a trend right now would be an understatement. Adobe (ADBE) just announced a "next-generation 3D API" coming this October, no doubt a shrewd move to one-up Apple (APPL) in its ongoing war. Meanwhile Sony (SNE) is investing heavy in its Bravia TVs, PlayStation 3s and other 3D-based media.
No one's going to see immediate success here, though it seems like the companies expect one. The problem here is that most 3D options are still too expensive, too limited or just too far-fetched to get the consumer to invest. The interest isn't much stronger worldwide, either. A recent survey in Japan, a country known for its tech aggressiveness, found that 70 percent of Japanese citizens had little interest in 3D.
Despite this, 3D is still being viewed as a panacea for sagging gadget sales, and the examples just over the past six months are numerous:
- Video game companies counting on 3D to revive lagging sales
- Porn companies expecting 3D to restore profitability to adult movies
- Media companies expecting households to invest several thousand dollars for a 3D TV and glasses
- Proprietary 3D technologies are keeping a unified 3D standard from easily happening
- Easy to use: The impressive Nintendo (NTYDO) 3DS handheld will be a hit not only because of the Nintendo name, but because the 3DS' 3D view requires little work on the consumers' part.
- Built-in tech: The Sharp (SRP) 3D cell phone technology can be built into the phone itself.
- Clear 3D advantages: Stand-alone cameras are fighting against smarter smartphones, but 3D photography is still something only possible with a digital camera. Unlike 3D television, consumers immediately know the value of the content -- family moments, travel shots, etc. -- and the advantages of having it in 3D.
Photo courtesy of 8one6
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