In-Stat: Annual Shipments of 3D Mobile Devices to Surpass 148 Million in 2015

3D technology has already stepped into home entertainment through 3D TVs. The technology is now becoming a buzzword in mobile device industry as well. Industry experts say 3D is becoming a mainstay technology, capable of having a huge impact on the way people watch video content and play games.

A recent study from In-Stat (News - Alert) finds that media consumption devices including handheld game consoles, smartphones, and tablets will drive demand for image sensors, a key technology component for 3D, over 130 by 2015.

The research predicts that total annual shipments of 3D mobile devices will surpass 148 million units in 2015.

The market for 3D mobile devices will be mainly driven by handheld game consoles. The research agency predicts that by 2015, nearly 30 percent of all handheld game consoles will be 3D. Further, it says in 2011, handheld game consoles will be the first 3D-enabled mobile device to surpass 1 million units annually and by 2014, 18 percent of all tablets will be 3D.

“The image sensor segment stands to gain the most from the use of 3D technology in mobile devices, because unlike the processor or the display, true 3D requires at least two image sensors, one for each imaging solution. That means four image sensors, two front facing and two rear facing, are required for a full 3D experience,” said Jim McGregor, chief technology strategist.

According to McGregor, several mobile devices with four image sensors have already been introduced and many more are slated for introduction throughout 2011 and 2012.In-Stat’s research, “3D in Mobile Technology: Processors, Image Sensors, and Displays Drive the 3D Experience” analyzes the challenges and opportunities for 3D technology in mobile devices.

The report also provides insight on what impact 3D technology can have on the underlying technologies such as image sensors, mobile processors, and displays. It also assesses the potential impact on costs and other technologies in the mobile market. 

Earlier last year, ABI Research (News - Alert) announced the results of a survey which anticipated that mobile devices may turn out to be the best form factor to bring 3D technology into mainstream markets.