Sony brings 3D anime characters to the desktop without glasses

Sony has introduced the ELF-MN1, a six-inch desktop display that shows anime avatars and other 3D objects without special glasses.

The screen tracks the viewer’s eyes and adjusts the image as they move, creating a sense of depth. An infrared sensor helps maintain tracking in dim lighting. Content comes from a compatible smartphone or Windows PC connected over USB-C, using supported applications such as the digital figure platform HoloModels.

The stereoscopic effect works for one viewer at a time, from 30–80cm away and within 25 degrees of center in each direction. People looking from other positions will not see the same 3D effect. The device also includes 1W stereo speakers and a microphone.

Compatible phones include Samsung’s Galaxy S23 and Apple’s iPhone 15, alongside newer supported models. The connection requires USB-C video output through DisplayPort Alt Mode, so having a USB-C charging port alone is not enough.

For PC users, the recommended setup includes Windows 11, at least 16GB of RAM and graphics hardware such as an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2070 Super or better. The computer also needs USB-C video output supporting 4K at 60Hz.

The ELF-MN1 goes on sale in Japan on December 11. Sony estimates a retail price of around ¥54,000, or about $340, with final prices set by retailers.