Future of Media Tech: White-Wall Entertainment

Photo Courtesy of Nan Palmero, Sales by 5

By Ethan Lyon, Senior Writer

As we transition our attention from TV to computers, what is the next step for computers? White-Wall Entertainment. The concept: Where there’s a white wall, you have your entertainment. Point your mobile projector at a white wall to share a movie, web clip, photos or even check your e-mail.

Projection technology is already more affordable and accessible for consumers. It can be found in TVs and Imax theaters. The difference between White-Wall Entertainment and the current technology is mobility. Currently, projection devices are bulky and difficult to transport. The next stage for this technology is mobility. Such a product is already on the market; furthermore, projection tech has been developed for a cell phone slated to debut in 2010.

Microvision is a projection developer leading the next evolution in how we consume media. Microvision combines laser technology with mobility to bring users the PicoP display engine. Simply point your mobile device at a wall or even the back of a bartender, and share photos, movies or websites with anyone. Focus is not an issue, as the Pico lasers always keeps the image in focus. Imagine a movie theater experience, with internet accessibility, all fitting in a single device small enough to fit into your pocket.

Microvision’s Pico display engine is a portable device in and of itself. Problem: it needs two devices to work. LG has solved that problem with their projector/cell phone prototype, shown at CES 2009. Such a device in your living room would negate the need for even the largest TV. Simply put your phone/gaming device/TV/everything-you-need into a holder, point it at your wall and watch your favorite movie or play your favorite game using a head tracking device and game control. Projection technology would allow gamers or movie viewers the ultimate 3d experience in a much bigger way. It will liberate the constraints of mobile screens and allow users to browse the web, share pictures and information as if they were front row at a movie theater. Consider a projected keyboard and monitor. Is this the new computer 2.0?

Though projection technology is still evolving, it is not quite ready for mass consumption. User reviews of such devices as Microvision’s Pico criticize the strength of the projection—only in a dark room are you able to clearly view projections.

White-wall entertainment will liberate the constraints of mobile screens and allow users to browse the web, share pictures and information as if they were front row at a movie theater. Consider a projected keyboard and monitor. Your cell phone could project what you typically would see on your monitor and a projected keyboard would allow you to type.

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