THIRD AXIS wrote this in comments. I thought it good enough for it’s own post
Actually, the “virtual reality” (a sadly dated name) concept is not dead. I work in the field of 3D technology for both development and content. How many have gone to a an Imax theater and experienced the recent wave of stereoscopic 3D features? Sony Pictures’ “Beowulf”, “U23D” (produced by L.A.-based 3ality Digital), “Coraline”, or Pixar’s recent animated offerings are showing the way to the next generation of entertainment technology. On December 16, James Cameron unveils his genre-defining film, “Avatar” a $200-plus million production which combines motion-capture live-action, CGI, and everything but the kitchen sink in terms of bleeding-edge filmmaking technology. Most of the current 3D features have been animated, but live-action will soon be the order of the day, with every major Hollywood studio currently involved in one or more major 3D productions over the coming years.
On the theater exhibition side, there are currently somewhere around 5000 venues equipped with digital 3D systems, and that number is increasing monthly with a scheduled digital rollout that began over a year ago. Also, SMPTE is currently finalizing standards for 3D broadcast, and all major manufacturers of home displays, including Panasonic, Samsung, Mitsubishi, etc. are currently shipping 3D-enabled systems (which require a PC codec). 3D TV broadcast is already happening in Japan and France. Most importantly, 3D computer displays, both desktop and laptop, will be coming out very soon. With all of this tech, I’m not talking “anaglyph” 3D (crappy red/blue glasses), but “polarized” 3D, with superior quality and zero eyestrain (the most important element of successful 3D). The best source of info for anyone interested in 3D is Jim Dorey’s blog site MarketSaw.com.
Of course, porn is a logical outlet for 3D, and I’m part of a team currently developing adult content – along with mainstream content – that will be revolutionizing the home porn experience. This ain’t empty hyperbole, either. You have to see it for yourself, because it’s beyond description. And this isn’t lowest-level, “Cumin’ At Ya” crap (shot for anaglyph, which is the only type of 3D that can be displayed on a conventional TV or computer).
We are in discussions with major adult studios to incorporate our technology and expertise for production, so expect to see this happening very soon. Couple the immersive 3D visual experience with haptic technology, and you begin to approach the real world of “virtual reality.” Of course, all this will come at a price, and the displays/systems aren’t cheap, especially initially, but the costs will come down as the technology is more widely adopted. The potential for the adult industry for broadcast, VOD, and other delivery is significant, and I predict that this will be one of the major new rev streams for content producers, distribs, and even innovative new venues within the gentlemens’ club market.
There, I’ve let the cat out of the bag…