Starting today, Sony Canada has started their big push for 3D Blu-ray and 3D HDTVs with the first set of public demonstrations of the new technology. Visitors to SonyStyle stores in nine different locations across the country (see list below) can take the opportunity to put on the special glasses and see a mix of 3D content including video games, sports, and nature photography. The demonstrations include the Sony Bravia HX900 which is due for release this summer and will be packaged with a pair of 3D glasses.

It's an LED-backlit LCD television that includes both the ability to play 3D content and the needed wireless transmitter for the glasses built-in (built into the lower left corner of the screen, next to the power button). The glasses, made by Real3D, use a more sophisticated active shutter system, different from what you may have used in the theatres, and so are battery-powered.

The demonstrations are being run not on the 3D Blu-ray players expected to arrive this summer at the same time, but from a PlayStation 3 system that has been updated for the task. All PlayStation 3 systems will be able to download a special firmware update later this year that will deliver two updates, one to add 3D playback for movies and another for video games.

Running at the demo station within the SonyStyle store at the Eaton Centre in Toronto is a mix of World Cup Egypt FIFA soccer footage, a nature scene of a polar bear swimming, and clips from PS3 games Stardust HD and WipEout HD, the last also being offered as a playable demonstration (slowed down a hitch to show off the 3D better). 

Missing from the mix are movies, which will also launch this summer with Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs being the first 3D Blu-Ray release.  

Note that Sony will be looking to record testimonials from those who try out the demonstrations. You don't have to give them one, of course, but it's worth noting that the company will not be announcing the price for 3D HDTVs, 3D Blu-ray players, or 3D glasses until closer to the summer launch. When you see those testimonials later, keep in mind the people making them don't know the price. 

Here's the list of locations showcasing the new 3D HTV. For directions, consult the Sony Retail Location Finder

Ontario

Toronto Eaton Centre

Yorkville Shopping Centre

Markville Shopping Centre

Ottawa Rideau Centre

Quebec 

Montreal Eaton Centre

Alberta

Chinook Shopping Centre

West Edmonton Mall

British Columbia

Richmond Centre 

Vancouver Pacific Centre