All models come with four pairs of glasses and built-in WiFi

Nov 17, 2011 15:53 GMT  ·  By

VIZIO decided to break apart from the fold and, instead of developing some new, expensive 3D TV that needs special glasses, made a whole series of sets that work with passive glasses like the ones used at cinemas.

The M-Series Theater 3D TVs that VIZIO just formally launched are free of the great pitfall of modern 3D television sets.

Most such panels come with active shutter glasses which are not only expensive and in need of batteries, and recharging, but they aren't intercompatible either.

This means that each manufacturer has to make its own glasses and that the glasses from on company's TVs don't work with the TVs from another brand.

VIZIO bypassed this whole issue by implementing polarized technology that supports passive glasses, like the ones used in movie theaters.

There is another advantage in this, namely affordability: passively polarized glasses are much less expensive than active shutter ones.

“From broadcast sporting events to streaming movies, VIZIO is truly making 3D content accessible for every family,” said Matt McRae, VIZIO Chief Technology Officer.

“The M-Series incorporates the very latest Theater 3D technologies and the recent recognition from Popular Science only validates our efforts to provide customers with great technology at an exceptional value.”

Each TV will be packed with four pairs of glasses and, as a bonus, will integrated WiFi, so that they may utilize the Netflix and Hulu Plus streaming apps, as well as the Vizio VIA platform.

Services like Amazon Instant Video, Blockbuster on Demand, Facebook, Fandango, Flickr, Pandora® Rhapsody, Twitter and VUDU made the cut as well.

M-Series 42-inch, 46-inch and 55-inch LED LCD Theater 3D HDTVs were listed in the official announcement and are described as the optimum choice for families. The starting price is of $1039.99 / 771 Euro.

As a final bonus, the VIA platform is joined by SRS audio technology, specifically the StudioSound HD.