Sony has unveiled a small display that lets users view animation characters and avatars in 3D without separate 3D glasses. When connected to a smartphone, it is designed to deliver an experience in which a favorite character appears to exist on a desk.

On Oct. 28, Japanese media outlet ITmedia reported that Sony will launch the 6-inch spatial reality display, dubbed ELF-MN1, in Japan on Dec. 11. The expected price is 54,000 yen (456,900 won).

ELF-MN1 applies Sony's glasses-free 3D display technology. It tracks the user's eye position to generate 3D images in real time based on the viewing angle, allowing 3D content to be viewed without dedicated glasses or a headset.

It added an infrared (IR) sensor to improve precise recognition of eye position even in dark environments. It uses a two-view display method and technology that suppresses image crosstalk to enhance depth and clarity.

The display has a resolution of 1,080 x 2,160 and a pixel density of 403 ppi. Sony said this is the highest pixel density among its spatial reality displays.

The connection method is also simple. Users can connect a Windows 11 PC or compatible iOS or Android smartphone with a USB-C cable and run a dedicated app. The device must support DisplayPort Alternate Mode, and it also requires a separate power supply.

At the time of the announcement, four apps were supported. They include the digital figure service HoloModels, the 3D viewer Deskrium, the AI companion service Animates, and the training adventure game Fenestra: My Focus, Her Future.

In particular, users can view 3D figures of officially licensed animation characters through HoloModels. Masafumi Mikami (미카미 마사후미), CEO of HoloModels operator Gugenka, said he expects it will make it more natural to recreate everyday life with a favorite character by one's side.

Developers can also use a software development kit (SDK) provided by Sony to create their own 3D content.

ELF-MN1 will be released as part of Sony's spatial content solution brand XYN lineup. Sony plans to sequentially display the product at Sony stores in Ginza and Nagoya.