Seems several companies have been publishing these warnings of the effects of 3D televisions on young children, and now Sony joins the ballpark with a warning like so:
Some people may experience discomfort (such as eye strain, eye fatigue or nausea) while watching 3D video images or playing stereoscopic 3D games on 3D televisions. If you experience such discomfort, you should immediately discontinue use of your television until the discomfort subsides.
SCEA recommends that all viewers take regular breaks while watching 3D video or playing stereoscopic 3D games. The length and frequency of necessary breaks may vary from person to person. Please take breaks that are long enough to allow any feelings of discomfort to subside. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor.
The vision of young children (especially those under six years old) is still under development. SCEA recommends that you consult your doctor (such as a pediatrician or eye doctor) before allowing young children to watch 3D video images or play stereoscopic 3D games. Adults should supervise young children to ensure they follow the recommendations listed above.
The press is making a huge deal out of these messages, rather (in my opinion) unnecessarily so. I remember the first time I looked at the manual for my old NES and seeing the warning about it causing seizures and epileptic fits. This is just the same thing.
The incidence (or cause) of problems in children from 3D viewing is largely unknown. There have been some studies, but nothing conclusive (yet). No doubt some children will have problems, and some will not. This is just legal ‘CYA’.
Personally, I think we should be more worried about children shooting their eyes out with BB-Guns or the other multitudinous ways they could injure themselves.
