Intel backs universal 3D graphics standard

Intel has joined forces with Adobe, Boeing and more than 30 other companies to create the 3D Industry Forum to promote the adoption of a universal 3D graphics standard.

The cross-industry group of developers and corporate users of 3D graphics technology has agreed to work with Ecma International, an international standards body, on a Universal 3D Format proposal as an ISO standard.

The object of the group is to develop a common standard so that interactive 3D content can be as widely used online and in business as digital audio, video and photos.

Intel said the current lack of ratified standards for sharing 3D content online and among standard applications has limited its use outside of the engineering and design communities.

A universal standard for re-purposing 3D content such as product designs would enable companies to make interactive simulations a common training tool, while the standard would pave the way for interactive guides for maintaining and repairing cars, boats, planes and other equipment, Intel said.

"Each time a new media standard has been enabled in computing and communications, it has led to an explosion of new uses and new markets," said Pat Gelsinger, Intel senior vice president and chief technology officer, in a statement.

"This collaboration between different industries marks a significant step towards turning 3D graphics into the next ubiquitous media, the same way the JPG file format brought pictures to our PCs, the internet and even [mobile] phones."