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Toshiba to release glasses-free 3D TV this year?

A report says Toshiba will, by the end of this year, launch 3D TVs in Japan that don't require glasses. The company says only that the technology is in the works.

Headshot of David Katzmaier
Headshot of David Katzmaier
David Katzmaier Editor in Chief
David leads the editorial team at CNET. We create expert reviews, articles and video on every aspect of technology, from AI to Zoox. We are thoroughly, proudly human.
Expertise A 25-year CNET veteran, David has been reviewing TVs since the days of CRT, rear-projection and plasma. He created CNET's methodology for testing TVs, streaming services and AI tools. Prior to CNET he wrote for Sound & Vision magazine and eTown.com. Credentials
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David Katzmaier

The promise of 3D without dorky glasses has always been elusive. CNETTV

As early as the end of this year in Japan, according to a report, Toshiba will release televisions capable of displaying 3D content that, unlike current models, do not require viewers to don special glasses.

The report in Japanese newspaper Yomiyuri was neither confirmed nor denied by Toshiba. Company spokesperson Yuko Sugahar said Tuesday only that Toshiba has such technology in the works.

The technology, known generically as autosterescopic 3D, was thought to be at least a few years away from commercial viability, according to industry sources CNET has spoken with, such as THX. According to the newspaper, the date could come much sooner, though it didn't provide more detail beyond saying that Toshiba will unveil three models of the television, which will cost several thousand dollars, before Christmas.

We'll believe it when we see it. In the meantime, enjoy these cool videos.