Google has released O3D, a browser plugin that gives developers a 3D API. It sits at a slightly higher level than other APIs (such as OpenGL / Canvas 3D type implementations) so it will be interesting to see if developers like the higher level abstraction, especially for building games. These APIs can also be implemented on top of the lower level APIs, so in theory it could sit on top of Canvas 3D.

There are plenty of demos, samples of code and shaders (they created a O3D shading language).

Interestingly, it embeds V8 as the JavaScript engine which makes for a uniform engine, but unfortunately you can’t use your browser debugger (e.g. no Firebug).

It has also been carefully positioned “This API is shared at an early stage as part of a conversation with the broader developer community about establishing an open web standard for 3D graphics.”

It is interesting to see another new plugin from Google. I always hoped that Gears would be one developer plugin to rule them all but then we have the Earth API, and this (as well as the non developer ones like the defunct Lively).

Anyway, cool to see rich experiments in bringing 3D to Web developers, and I look forward to seeing what people do with it! Leisure Suit Larry 3D anyone?