Watching 3D Content on iPhone, iPod Touch sans 3D Glasses Possible with i3DG Palm Top Theater

Heard of the latest accessory in 3D for the iPhone and iPod Touch? The device is called the i3DG Palm Top Theater designed and developed by Jitsuro Mase, a media artist, for the Japanese company Directions. The best bit about this device is that it allows you to enjoy 3D movie experience without the need of the customary 3D glasses.

The basis for this technology is a concept called Peppers’ Ghost. Peppers’ Ghost is an illusionary technique used, most notably, in Disney Park to give 3D impressions and the technique was first developed by John Henry Peppers way back in the 1860s. Now, Mase has built on this technique to bring the 3D experience to iPhones.

Essentially, the video is split into 3 layers. The device has three semi-transparent (half-silvered) mirrors placed at an angle of 45 degrees atop the iPhone and when you look across these mirrors a 3D image is viewed. The downside is the video ends up splitting into thirds and the image is small in size and of low resolution. However, efforts are being made to increase the size of the image and its quality.

This device managed to grab many eyeballs at the Ars Electronica Festival. The concept, if it does become popular, is likely to open up new vistas in 3D videos, games and animation. The downsizing of the image may be a turn off at the moment; but since we have an assurance that the company is working towards ironing out this little obstacle, you may look forward to a handy equipment to enjoy 3D content at the plam of your hand.

The company has not mentioned the price and availability details yet. Stay tuned for more.