Sony, the consumer electronics company, releases a firmware for its new NEX-3 and NEX-5 interchangeable-lens cameras that would allow users to take 3D panorama shots.

Instead of having to line up a sequence of panorama shots manually, the firmware would enable users to simply press the shutter-release button and sweep the camera from one side to the other. The camera makes use of its high-speed burst mode. It then performs the difficult task of stitching the images together and then providing a 3D view. The 3D output can be displayed on any standards-compatible 3D TV, including Sony's own Bravia sets.

The update only covers original-release NEX-3 and NEX-5 cameras that have the 01 firmware. Users with 02 firmware do not need the update since it is already preloaded. To find out which version of firmware your camera has, simply select Menu -> Setup -> Version. The firmware update also reduces power consumption when the camera is off and improves 2D panorama capture.

The free firmware update can be located at http://support.sony-europe.com/dime/DSLR/DSLR.aspx.