When we think of 3D viewing, we usually think of 3D glasses or special goggles. However, SoftBank Corp. (TOKYO: 9434) broke this framework in September 2024 by launching a new 3D experience service called “TOBIDERU.” TOBIDERU is unique in that it allows smartphone users to view photos and videos in 3D without the need for glasses or accessories. As a service for the Japanese market, a compatible smartphone*, a dedicated LCD protective film, and the included app are required. How is it measured? SoftBank News editors have inspected this groundbreaking service firsthand.
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As of October 2024, compatible models are iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15, and support for other models is planned in the future.
Photos and videos convey the full 3D effect
3D technology has advanced significantly in recent years. From movies that pop out when you wear 3D glasses, to virtual reality (VR) Metaverse experiences, to immersive games where characters move freely in a 3D world, 3D technology is transforming industries. 3D displays are used in online catalogs that allow customers to see products from all angles, in architectural models that display buildings in 3D, and even in precision imaging and diagnostic applications in the medical field.
Return to Tobideru. The service promises to allow users to view photos and videos taken with their smartphones in full 3D without the need for special glasses. In the demo, content created specifically for 3D content was first introduced. It was a space scene where a small spaceship tries to escape from a large spaceship. The longer I looked at it, the more immersive it became, with asteroids appearing to approach and spaceships popping out of the screen.
The image looks blurry in the photo you take, but to the naked eye it looks 3D.
As you can see in the photo above, it’s difficult to convey the full 3D effect in photos, as 2D images can be blurry or distorted. However, the actual experience is highly immersive.
As I watched videos of dancers, the choreographed dance moves seemed to jump out of my tiny smartphone screen. Although it was a little difficult to follow the fast movements, the 3D effect was undeniable.
TOBIDERU can also display videos stored on your smartphone in 3D. A close-up video of the two walking toward the torii gate was shot with a smartphone, and the sense of depth was impressive.
After a quick conversion process, you can view your personal videos in their new size by opening them in a dedicated app.
The road now has a sense of depth, as if a cat is approaching.
The sense of distance in the background is the same as seen with the naked eye.
TOBIDERU 3D experience must be seen in person
To learn more about how 3D effects work on regular smartphones, SoftBank News spoke to Yuki Kumon from SoftBank’s content promotion division.
Yuki Kumon
Content Promotion Department Business Planning Department
Consumer Business Promotion Department
Softbank Corp.
Since 2020, Yuki Kumon has been responsible for the launch and strategic planning of augmented reality (AR) services such as “AR SQUARE” within SoftBank’s “5G LAB” suite of entertainment services.
How does TOBIDERU work?
It’s as easy as applying a special screen protector to your smartphone. After that, you can easily enjoy 3D video content by simply viewing photos and videos with the dedicated app.
Does this mean that you can view photos and videos in 3D just by applying a protective film?
You can easily enjoy the 3D experience by attaching the dedicated 3D screen protector to your compatible smartphone. I would love for more people to try it! When you’re not using an app, the screen protector works just like a regular protector. It can be purchased at domestic “Softbank” brand stores and major electronics retailers, so if you are looking for an LCD protective film, we recommend “TOBIDERU 3D Screen Protector”. The thrill of seeing your photos and videos in 3D can only be fully understood by experiencing it for yourself.
How are you promoting this 3D experience?
Demo machines are available at SoftBank shops nationwide (excluding some stores) where you can try out the 3D experience. We highly recommend that you take a look for yourself. Furthermore, if you download the free app “TOBIDERU”, you can try out content from popular artists. Fans shouldn’t miss the chance to see what their favorite content looks like in 3D. We plan to add paid content to the app in the future.
Is this service available only to SoftBank users?
No, not only customers using SoftBank’s “Y!mobile” and “LINEMO” brand services, but also customers of other carriers in Japan can experience the 3D service. However, as of October 2024, this 3D service is only available to iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 users. This is because the process of creating a 3D screen protector and how the app controls the 3D conversion differs depending on the smartphone model. We need to verify that it works properly on your device before recommending it.
We plan to expand support for other smartphones soon. Please look forward to future updates.
How to experience Tobidel
We have put together what you need to enjoy TOBIDERU, a service that allows you to display photos and videos taken with your smartphone in 3D without glasses.
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As of October 2024, this service is only available to iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 users.
- Purchase a special 3D screen protector and apply it to your supported smartphone.
- Download the free TOBIDERU app
- Open the app and access photos and videos from your smartphone’s gallery
That’s all you need! The app also includes free trial content. The 3D effect becomes even more noticeable when you shoot spatial videos and photos in Cinematic or Portrait mode. This article won’t be able to adequately convey the 3D experience, so please visit the store and experience it for yourself.
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(Posted on October 21, 2024)
by SoftBank News Editorial Department
