科技英语新闻:Samsung, suspends development, active shutter 3D TVs

SEOUL, Nov. 8 (Xinhua) -- Samsung Electronics, the world's largest flat screen TV vendor, said Tuesday that it has suspended its plan to develop active shutter three-dimensional (3D) TVs with RealD, the U.S.-based 3D technology supplier.

"Samsung has decided to focus on our own initiatives of 3D technology, and continues to research and develop next-generation 3D display technologies, including a glasses-free 3D solution for the home," the tech firm said in an e-mailed statement.

The active shutter 3D technology drew public attention after Samsung reached a deal with RealD earlier this year to jointly develop such technology, aiming to unveil 3D TVs based on the technology early next year.

The active shutter is a next generation 3D technology that incorporates merits from both shutter-glass (SG) technology, which Samsung adopted, and film patterned retarder (FPR) technology, which LG introduced in December last year.

The SG technology has been touted as better picture quality and deeper 3D images, but the eyewear is heavier because it requires batteries and chips to work. The active shutter 3D technology moved its function of 3D image creation from eyewear to flat panel, making the eyewear lighter.

Despite the upgraded technology and its convenience, Samsung decided to focus on its existing SG technology as the global TV market is grappling with weak demand. The penetration rate, which gauges the ratio of 3D sets against the total flat screen TVs, was expected to rise to 9.9 percent by year-end from the 3 percent a year earlier, according to Woori Investment & Securities, a local securities firm.