Mobile 3D

Name: Kari Rose
Title: TR 10: Mobile 3-D: Mobile phones will take 3-D Mainstream
Author: Annalee Newitz
Source: Technology Review
Date: May/June 2010
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Description:
This article describes a phone released by Samsung in March that changes from a 2-D display to a 3-D display when the phone is held at a specific horizontal angle. This technology works without the need for 3-D glasses, which means it is likely to be more readily accepted than televisions that require special glasses. Unfortunately, this technology is not easily transferable to televisions because of the requirement to hold the device at a specific angle.

Comments:
Although this technology is not one created specifically for education, it could eventually have applications in education, particularly for concepts that are more easily understood in 3-dimensions. I can see this being especially useful in math classrooms studying the geometry of 3-dimensional shapes. I could also see applications for virtual field-trip type experiences. Since content can be experienced in 3-dimensions, students could view historical events or visit geographical destinations with more of a feeling of "being there." Coupled with a device like an I-pad or Kindle, this could revolutionize textbooks into a more interactive experience for students.