14 DAY TRIAL // With all the CES 2012 hubbub, we initially missed the latest announcement of the Bluetooth special interest group (SIG), but the currents of the world wide web are not so easily curbed.
What the Bluetooth SIG made a point of spreading word about was the release of the first specification for its wireless active 3D glasses.
“Samsung first introduced 3D Smart TVs with Bluetooth technology in 2011, providing consumers with enhanced convenience,” said Jurack Chae, vice president of R&D team, Samsung Electronics.
“Samsung is actively working within the Bluetooth SIG on the 3-D glasses standard so that we can provide consumers products with industry leading compatibility and device-to-device connectivity. Samsung will continue to develop technology that provides satisfying new consumer experiences."
Samsung is just one of the Bluetooth SIG member companies and means to grant Bluetooth 3D glasses a greater freedom of movement, longer battery life and wider interoperability.
Since Smart TVs, with or without 3D, are already at the point where Bluetooth is a common feature, it was about time that this standard appeared.
Gaming consoles have been quickly integrating such wireless functionality as well (71% of the total consoles sold in 2011 support it).
“When it comes to the connected living room, Bluetooth technology has the advantage of already being in billions of devices, including the latest Bluetooth Smart and Bluetooth Smart Ready products using Bluetooth v4.0. Bluetooth technology is in millions of television sets, with millions more on the way this year alone. Innovative remote controls and 3D glasses are just the beginning,” said Michael Foley, executive director of Bluetooth SIG.
“The real magic for the consumer is having their Bluetooth enabled TV seamlessly connect with other Bluetooth devices in the home, including their wireless speaker system, set-top box, phone, tablet, fitness devices, home thermostat, appliances, and more.”
Unfortunately, the Bluetooth glasses probably won't win any prizes for aesthetic value, slimness or low weight.