Nokia and Intel have confirmed that they are setting up a specialist 3D graphics unit with the aim of adding 3D video calling capability to mobile devices. Above shows an early 3D demo image.

The specialist unit will be setup in Finland at Oulu University which is a leading edge centre of excellence in mobile technology. Nokia and Intel will fund the 3D development program.

There are already rumours that a 3D tablet device may be unveiled later this year which is "glasses free" but nothing official has been released as yet. This could be a tablet device running Nokia's new MeeGo operating system.

The new 3D development from Nokia and Intel will span the next three years and will aim to create a whole new 3D technology where users can communicate in 3D along the lines of video conferencing. It may involve 3D projectors housed in the mobile devices but this will only be clear with time.

"3D technology could change the way we use our mobile devices and make our experiences with them much more immersive" said Rich Green of Nokia .