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A Three Dimensional conversation with Phil McKinney

Posted by: Michael on Wed, Jan 27th, 2010

Today I had the pleasure with several others to have a discussion with Phil McKinney CTO or HP. The discussion was about 3D technology.

The point of the discussion was to talk about a recent Panel that Phil moderated during the Sundance Film Festival. The panel was put together to discuss the challenges they face in brining 3D to consumers, and find ways to better align the industry. Basically get everyone on the same page.

They also discussed the business potential of 3D. Before I continue I suggest you watch the Sundance Panel. (Eight, nine minute videos)

http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=787A7D8D32DB0EB1

It was a kind of long discussion but very informative.

During the call with Phil we asked Phil when he expected 3D televisions to become mainstream. He said with in 3 to 5 years. He then told us about a television that HP Labs is working on where you will get 3D content without the need of glasses. The way he explained how the technology worked was similar to old color televisions where you would have a tri color film over the screen but a bit more sophisticated.

He also expects this technology to be available in three years. If it is only three years away they must already have some working prototypes. I only wish I could see one.
We also talked about the future of HPs Halo Room, and the possibility of using 3D in those conference rooms, which they expect will be possible in 2012.

The 3D phone chat ended quickly and the conversation turned to the recently unveiled HP Slate. A tablet PC which revolutionize the tablet PC industry.

While Phil would not provide details on the HP Slate, he did say it will be available with all wireless connectivity options currently available. Meaning it will have Wi-Fi and Mobile Broadband. He also said HP is working on a customized UI which will improve the user experience.

He also said it would be made available to everyone, so I would expect to see it in retail stores. They didn’t have a release date for us but I suspect they will announce availability in September.