LG has started sending out invitations to an event at next month's Mobile World Congress. Though it stops just shy of unveiling a device, LG says that it plans to take us into a "new dimension" on February 14.

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that the company will be showing off a 3D phone, presumably the LG Optimus 3D. A phone bearing that very name was found this week on a Dutch Web site, and subsequently got removed. There's not much to tell from the accompanying image, except that it closely resembles the growing number of Optimus phones currently available.

Maybe it's just me, but I'm having a hard time trying to wrap my head around this whole 3D on smartphones deal. I get the idea of running pictures and video out to a large television screen, but daily practicality is a different story. How much will this feature cost me and will I really use it very often

I just don't see myself getting excited over this feature. While 3D is supposed to pull you into the picture or movie, I can't help but feel very aware of the technology being used to manipulate me. The ability to view 3D on a phone without glasses sounds nice, but now we're talking about 4-inch screens.

LG's rumored Optimus 3D

Having said that, it's nice to see LG on the front side of this feature. The company has steadily improved its smartphone lineup over the last few months and has gone from reactive to proactive. How well 3D translates to mobile we'll find out soon enough. CNET will be on hand at Mobile World Congress where we'll take a look at this, and likely other 3D phones when they are unveiled.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on 3D technology on smartphones and tablets. Is this something you are interested in or will it be a passing trend Is there anyone out there willing to fork over a couple extra bucks for the option