3D display to transform consumer electronics

The growth of consumer electronics sector all over the world has created a plethora of opportunities for 3D displays. The technology has transformed user experience in the 3DTV segment and is now set to become a game changer in the markets for smartphones, tablets and laptops.

A Frost & Sullivan study, 3D Display Technology Innovations Impacting Consumer Sector, finds that 3D technology will have a strong impact on trends such as smart products, mobility, as well as connectivity and convergence. The total revenues from 3D displays are expected to increase from $4.2 billion in 2012 to $22 billion by 2018, with 3DTV accounting for much of the revenues.

Asia-based display makers such as Samsung and LG may continue to dominate the 3D display and smartphone markets as they have the infrastructure and best practices for producing 3D displays.

"The trend of integrating complex functionalities continues to attract consumers and add value to products," said Frost & Sullivan analyst Karthik Vishal Lakshmanan. This, in turn, "influences competition in the consumer electronics market, where gadgets with many features always gain market prominence; 3D displays will remain a distinguishing factor in the market."

However, this does not mean that the pricing of 3D displays is excessive, as compared to 2D technologies such as high definition (HD), 4K and ultra HD. The high prices are mainly the result of the recovery models companies adopt to recoup their R&D investments.

Despite the expense, end-user companies will continue to employ 3D display in next-generation products. There will be room for innovations and adoption as the technology will be used in applications including large area displays, haptics and touch-less sensing areas. Research activities by consortiums, universities and companies will bring about robust and true 3D display without glasses.