Pinpoint accuracy: Sharp rumoured to be producing 3DS screen

Sharp is rumoured to be providing the 3D screen for Nintendo’s forthcoming 3DS handheld. The alleged component has been in development, in various forms, for two decades now, as evidenced by an uncovered research paper (reprinted on the Develop website, here) commissioned by the company.

Of particular interest is the technology’s ability to switch between 2D and 3D. Dubbed ‘Parallax 3D Display’, the screen can be electronically switched between the two modes, and produces 2D image quality on a par with standard LCD screens.

Even better, the 3D mode doesn’t require glasses thanks to a clever system which beams independent images to each eye. The report states that applications for ‘Parallax 3D Display’ include “3D games, amusement, image capture and display”.

The report also details Sharp’s intention to “widen the position in which a 3D image can be viewed and therefore increase viewing freedom”. And that this is “particularly important for gaming applications”.

Nintendo refuses to comment on the technology or the 3DS. But if these rumours are true, the Kyoto company’s next handheld could provide the catalyst to start the home 3D revolution.