Sharp computer puts focus on 3D

JAPANESE electronics giant Sharp is to unveil the world's first commercial use of 3D technology on a computer screen - a development that could bode well for Britain.

Sharp plans to launch a notebook computer later this month with a screen that can use conventional 2D technology and a new system showing 3D images.

It will cost 350,000 yen (£1875). The system is based on a technology that tricks the eyes by broadcasting an image to one eye that the other cannot see - creating an optical illusion that presents the user with a three-dimensional image.

A Sharp spokeswoman said the company sees potential for the screens in TV, the games market and in design and medical imaging.

Exploiting 3D is high on the agendas of Japanese companies. Sharp recently formed a consortium with rivals Sony, Sanyo, Itochu and NTT to develop the technology.

In Britain, where much of the Sharp research has taken place, scientists have long complained that they have pioneered many of the breakthroughs but have not had the financial support.