To 3-D, or not 3-D: Despite the dearth of content to watch (Avatar and Alice in Wonderland aside), 3-D television is quickly rising to the top of the hype parade. Sony is determined to remain leader of the 3-D pack, despite rivals LG and Panasonic also coming out with significant offerings. Sony's latest products are four new models for the LX900 series. The cutting-edge LCD sets can show 3-D images in full 1,080p resolution, with the aid of RealD's active shutter glasses. In welcome contrast to Panasonic's move to offer a single pair of glasses with its own top-end 3-D sets, Sony is including a pair of the special glasses with its TVs.

Cleverly, Sony is not relying solely on those willing to watch TV while wearing odd-looking glasses. The LX900 sets promise exceptional viewing in their own right with LED backlighting. Of greater interest, and uniqueness, is the "Intelligent People Sensor." The sensor causes the TV to automatically fit the viewing experience to the environment. It locates where viewers are and directs the sound to match. Moreover, the television's brightness is matched to the TV watcher's position, so it dims if the viewer's head is facing down. If nobody is detected watching the TV, it shuts off to save energy. One innovative but nagging feature is that when somebody is detected to be too close to the screen, a warning message is flashed on the TV until the offender backs off a sufficient distance. The technology also includes a wireless connection, making for easy access to media stored on home networks.

LX900 sets with 40- and 46-inch screens will be released on June 10, with 52- and 60-inch models are due out July 16.