Apple readying 3D capabilities for iPhone 5 and iPad 3?

Apple researching 3D capabilities for iPhone and iPad
Is Apple ready to join the third dimension?

An Apple job listing seems to reveal the Cupertino firm's intentions on investigating 3D technology for its iOS software found on iPhones, iPads and iPods.

The listing appeared on Apple's careers website and shows the company is looking for an iOS Software Engineer with experience in "multi-view stereo and 3D reconstruction" and "cameras and surfaces in a 3D environment".

Apple is yet to release a mobile device toting 3D technology, but with Android handsets such as the HTC Evo 3D and LG Optimus 3D already on sale, Apple will not want to be left behind in a potentially lucrative market.

"Multi-view stereo and 3D reconstruction" - thrilling

Apart from a lot of buzz words, the job listing unsurprisingly provides very little in terms of detail on any potential features we may be able to expect in the future.

There's a chance that the iPhone 5 could see the arrival of 3D technology, but it seems like Apple is taking it very seriously and may decide to bide its time – possibly to see if the 3D mobile market grows significantly before it wades in.

There's even the possibility that the role could overflow into the rumoured Apple iTV, which is expected to run a version of the iOS software, and as it will be a smart TV you'd also expect 3D technology to be included.

Do you want Apple to go down the 3D route with its iPhones and iPads, or is it a gimmick with a limited shelf life? Let us know in the comment box below.

From Apple via 9to5mac

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John McCann
Former Global Managing Editor

TechRadar's former Global Managing Editor, John has been a technology journalist for more than a decade, and over the years has built up a vast knowledge of the tech industry. He’s interviewed CEOs from some of the world’s biggest tech firms, visited their HQs, and appeared on live TV and radio, including Sky News, BBC News, BBC World News, Al Jazeera, LBC, and BBC Radio 4.

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