VRARA London Updates: Digital Body Festival, IBC Accelerator Media Innovation Programme

We are here to keep you up to date on upcoming events and news for VRARA London members and partners. If you have something to share contact us at londonmarketing@thevrara.com.

Digital Body Festival launches in Hackney, 15-17 November

A new festival celebrating the intersection of the moving body and digital technology launches this November. Set across a series of spaces within one of East London’s most dynamic cultural and community hubs, Digital Body Festival will feature exhibition spaces, performances, workshops and live conversations.

Tickets go on sale from 14th October and VRARA members receive a 20% discount - email londonmarketing@thevrara.com​ for details.

IBC Accelerators Media Innovation Programme

The IBC Accelerator Media Innovation Programme showcased proof of concepts over four days in Amsterdam last month. These projects aim to solve complex media and entertainment business and technology challenges, providing a framework for agile, collaborative, and fast-track innovation. The video clip illustrates the Digital Replicas and Talent ID project.

XR and adjacent technologies were key to several projects: Evolution of the Control Room applied XR and natural language control to a real-time production environment. Connect and Produce Anywhere, Phase IIexplored edge-first computing for live remote audio/video contribution. The AI Media Production Lab studied improving creativity and efficiency in production workflows, stamping out bias and AI hallucinations to embrace audience sentiments in content development, and exploring predictive video workflows in sports production.

You can explore these showcase sessions and more at https://show.ibc.org/accelerators-2024-challenges and the IBC 365: Accelerating Innovation podcast.

If these examples inspire you to get involved in the 2025 programme you can register your interest at https://show.ibc.org/

Do you have a story to share?

If you have a story to contribute for the VRARA London Chapter newsletter, contact John Dowsland at londonmarketing@thevrara.com.

John has many years of experience in content management & distribution for film, music and corporate communications, and currently works in calibration technology. In 2018 he joined the board of Cinema Technology Community CIC, and he has been involved in the VRARA since 2022.

Thanks for reading! Click here to Get in touch.

Revolutionizing Media: An Immersive OTT Experience Tailored for Apple Vision Pro

Travancore Analytics has developed an advanced OTT platform tailored for Apple’s Vision Pro, revolutionizing media consumption by combining immersive 3D visuals, spatial audio, and gesture-based navigation. This mixed reality headset elevates the OTT experience, providing users with virtual screens that expand within their environment, creating a more personal and dynamic viewing experience. The platform’s seamless integration with Vision Pro allows users to interact with content through intuitive controls, including gestures and voice commands, enhancing engagement and spatial immersion—perfect for live events, 360-degree videos, and other interactive content.

Key features of the platform include personalized content preferences, enabling users to curate their media experience, and robust security protocols ensuring compliance with industry standards, safeguarding user privacy and data. With customizable options, the platform also offers dynamic Digital Rights Management (DRM) capabilities, ensuring that content creators retain control over their intellectual property. Additionally, the platform supports both HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) and DASH (Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP), providing flexible, high-quality streaming that adapts to varying network conditions.

Beyond just streaming, the Vision Pro platform allows users to create personalized virtual environments, letting them enjoy content in unique settings—whether it’s watching a favorite show on a serene mountain peak or in a futuristic living room. This innovation, alongside the seamless transition between augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), sets the OTT platform apart, transforming the way users experience and interact with media in a fully immersive manner.

Explore our blog to learn more!

Website: https://www.travancoreanalytics.com/

Follow us on Linkedin for latest updates: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/travancore-analytics/

Get To Know elum, i3's Commercial Training Development & Deployment Platform, at AES 2024

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama & DALLAS, Texas — With the launch of elumplatform.com this year,VRARA Alabama chapter member i3 reinforces its stake in the world's best, next-generation commercial training tools, ready to be developed and deployed within any enterprise environment. The elum platform offers immersive 3D training experiences, blending video game design with learning sciences to make training both tailored and engaging. They plan on attending AES, or Augmented Enterprise Summit, in Dallas, TX, this October (Booth #513).

"Knowledge is a right," says Tim Van Alstine, Commercial Business Lead and founder of elum. "Whether you have an existing Learning Management System or need to build a program from the ground up, elum helps you find that personalized solution. We've developed it for compatibility with more than 20 leading hardware platforms, and we're deployable on all major LMS, or Learning Management Systems. With elum, developing effective training materials and deploying them worldwide is easy for desktop, mobile, web, and XR."

elum makes integration of its capabilities smooth for CLOs and CIOs, as well. The full-featured offerings of elumStudio, elumClassroom, elumPlayer, elumCloud, and elumAnalytics provide industry-unique solutions that address the contemporary, ever-changing needs to train teams at scale.

“The kind of attendees at AES are exactly who elum is for – and they should schedule time to meet us at booth #513 or come by presentation on the future of training at the ‘Ask the Solution Providers’ panel at the main stage. From computer-based instruction hosted on Canvas to job-site augmented reality hosted on the elumCloud, elum can create the right training, the right way," adds Van Alstine. "Our virtual training is backed by trusted industries leading the way in defense, aerospace, healthcare, manufacturing, energy, automotive, and education."

Find more details about elum at AES this year by visiting their event page.

And don’t forget to check out elumplatform.com for greater details, contact info, and more about elum.

"Atoms" - A Revolutionary 3D Animated Film by VRARA Member Sean Browne

Atoms is a unique 3D animated feature film set within the microscopic world of a sick little princess's body. The story follows Logiq, a timid and anxious carbon atom who is the head of defense in a cellular federation under siege by a malicious virus. When Logiq's strategies fail, he decides to run away, leading him on a transformative journey that forces him to confront his deepest fears. Alongside his courageous oxygen atom friend Zeal, Logiq faces new dangers and allies, including shape-shifting nanobots and hostile mites, in a visually stunning world filled with breathtaking cellular landscapes.

For the VR/AR community, Atoms presents an incredible opportunity to explore this microscopic world through immersive technology. The film's setting—a war-torn cellular cityscape with surreal organs depicted as post-apocalyptic environments—lends itself to an innovative VR/AR experience. Imagine navigating through a bustling city of skin cells, diving into the plasma seas, or battling shape-shifting viruses in real-time. With its compelling narrative and kinetic visual style, Atoms is poised to be a groundbreaking project that merges education, entertainment, and cutting-edge immersive storytelling.

Help This Project Win $100,000!

Here's how you (member or not!) can support a fellow VRARA Member:

Click this link and create an account (KYC and Verification Process)

Vote for Atoms the Magic Internet Movie

With your help we can win the $100,000 Arts3 Startup Grant And create our one-minute film teaser for Atoms!

Ediphi Raises Oversubscribed $1.5M Round to Expand Immersive Hospitality Training Platform

AUSTIN, Texas — Hospitality technology innovator Ediphi is partnering with a super angel group, which includes Tripadvisor co-founder and former CEO Steve Kaufer, and investors Pixel Perfect Ventures, Allied VC and Techstars, to meet its goal of serving more enterprise clients in North America and to expand its library of available training modules. Following on earlier investment by Techstars and Capital Factory, the latest investors were selected to help accelerate Ediphi's growth through their industry expertise and strategic guidance.

Ediphi uses immersive technology to empower employers in high-demand, high-turnover industries to nurture employee growth and career development. “Ediphi is solving a critical problem in hospitality. Their vision and tech are impressive, and they’re setting new standards in the industry. The company stands out for its innovation and vision, and for its exceptional team and path to market leadership,” Kaufer said.

Ediphi Co-Founder and CEO Cristina Imperial Carl confirmed the oversubscribed round will be used to expand on the company's technology. With a focus on the hospitality industry, Ediphi’s goals-based platform leverages immersive experiences and AI to provide personalized training paths for employees, from the start of their career through their growth as leaders.

Techstars Managing Director Kerty Levy said, “Cristina and the entire Ediphi team are building the most elegant and scalable solutions for training in the hospitality industry. I'm excited to be part of the journey as they expand globally.” CEO Imperial Carl led the company through Techstars’ Boston accelerator program in 2023.

Ediphi’s VR training modules and immersive classrooms simulate real-world experiences, including emergency preparedness training for hurricanes and fires, and first aid response. Priority initiatives include enhancements to the company’s responsive AI trainer avatar, Yumi, and to its AI-powered career-planning capabilities. The platform analyzes a learner’s curriculum vitae and provides a personalized career-training path and mentorship match aligned to an individual’s career goals. The company is also advancing its multilingual capacities for English language learners. Current partners include JW Marriott and Hyatt Regency, among other notable hospitality brands.

Vanessa Jopillo, Ediphi’s co-founder and COO, noted the company’s newest wave of advancements provide hotel and hospitality employers with opportunities for simultaneous training at scale, while also ensuring consistency in content. Jopillo said, “By streamlining training, employers can align their L&D with strategic business objectives, while enhancing employee performance and retention.”

*Exclusive VRARA Discount Ends Sept 9th!* Investment opportunity with an AI + XR startup: Sphere

LAST CHANCE TO INVEST!

Exclusive VRARA Discount Ends This Monday, September 9th!

Our partner, Sphere, is offering VRARA members a groundbreaking opportunity to own the future of XR.

The company is a leading provider of enterprise-grade immersive experiences that are purpose-built to drive bottom-line results. Sphere’s spatial collaboration software – empowering customers like Pfizer, Volkswagen and Micron - has been invited to crowdfund on Republic, resulting in a unique opportunity for you!
In just a short time, they have already raised over $185,000. For a limited time, VRARA members are entitled to receive a special investment discount, but time is running out! Secure yours today!


Why Invest in Sphere?

Accelerated Growth: Your investment will fuel the development of Sphere’s game-changing XR roadmap as it pushes the boundaries into AI and unlocks unimaginable possibilities!
Learn More (LINK TO REPUBLIC PAGE)
Real Business Impact: Sphere continues to grow as it addresses critical enterprise challenges, delivering tangible value to its thousands of daily users.
Industry Leadership: Join a pioneering company that’s partnered with leaders in our industry to transform the future of work as we know it.

Learn More and Don’t Miss Your Chance to Invest Today!


Let's shape the future of XR together!

Banuba Introduces Pupillary Distance Measurement for Opticians and Eyewear Stores

Banuba, a leading provider of augmented reality (AR) solutions, is excited to announce the addition of a cutting-edge pupillary distance (PD) measurement feature to its Face AR SDK. This new functionality accurately gauges the distance between the centers of a user's pupils, enabling reliable applications for both medical purposes and virtual eyewear try-on. 

Banuba’s PD measurement doesn’t require any special devices or referential items (e.g. credit card) in the frame. This means it is more user-friendly, accessible, and safe.

Pupillary distance is a critical measurement in the field of optometry, as it directly impacts the fitting and effectiveness of prescription eyewear. Accurate PD data ensures that lenses are correctly placed in front of the wearer’s eyes, enhancing visual comfort and clarity. With Banuba's new feature, users can seamlessly obtain their PD, making it easier than ever to order glasses online or consult with eye care professionals.

In addition to the pupillary distance measurement, Banuba’s Face AR SDK also includes a camera-to-face distance measurement tool. This feature has already been successfully utilized by Eyebou in collaboration with UNICEF to help diagnose sight issues in over 10,000 orphans. By combining these advanced tools, Banuba continues to pave the way for accurate and accessible eyewear solutions/

"This addition not only enhances virtual try-on experiences but also supports essential medical applications, empowering users to take control of their eye health," Artem Harytonau, CTO at Banuba said.

Banuba remains dedicated to advancing AR technology for practical applications that improve everyday life. The integration of these features underscores the company’s mission to innovate and provide valuable solutions across various sectors.

About Banuba:

Banuba is an augmented reality company with over 8 years on the market, pioneering face tracking, virtual try-on, and virtual background technologies. Banuba provides software development kits (SDKs) for augmented reality and video editing, as well as ready-to-integrate solutions for virtual try-on on face, hair and hands.

Announcing the Jobs Working Group for VRARA Members

Based on member requests for the VRARA to offer some type of job placement/matching capability, we are forming a "Jobs Working Group" that will be comprised of VRARA members who are interested in contributing to creating a program through the VRARA that will benefit our members and employers. 

If you are interested in being a member of the working group and contributing your ideas please email john@thevrara.com

The working group will start Mid-September and will last for approximately 1 month.  

The Impact of Virtual Reality on the Future of Real Estate Design and Architecture with ATS

Explore the transformative effect of virtual reality on real estate design and architecture and discover how ATS's VR services are shaping the industry's future by offering innovative, immersive experiences.

Virtual reality (VR) is revolutionizing various industries, and real estate design and architecture are no exception. By offering immersive experiences and powerful visualization tools, virtual reality enables architects, designers, and developers to create, present, and refine projects in ways never before possible. In this blog, we’ll delve into the impact of virtual reality on the future of real estate design and architecture and explore how VRARA Member ATS’s virtual reality services contribute to this transformation.

Enhanced Architectural Visualization

One of the most significant benefits of virtual reality in real estate design and architecture is its ability to provide enhanced architectural visualization. ATS’s VR services enable the creation of precise, navigable photorealistic 3D models of properties, allowing architects and clients to explore and evaluate designs as if they were physically present.

By bringing blueprints and 3D models to life, virtual reality allows architects to communicate their vision more effectively and enables clients to understand the proposed design better. This improved visualization can lead to more informed decision-making and streamlined design processes.

Real-Time Collaboration

Virtual reality facilitates real-time collaboration between architects, designers, clients, and stakeholders. ATS’s virtual reality services offer a shared, immersive environment where everyone involved in a project can explore and discuss design elements, making it easier to address concerns and reach a consensus.

This collaborative approach improves communication and fosters innovation, as multiple perspectives can contribute to the design process. Furthermore, real-time collaboration can lead to faster project completion and increased client satisfaction.

Improved Design Iterations

Visualizing and exploring designs in a virtual environment enables architects and designers to identify potential issues and make adjustments more efficiently. By leveraging ATS’s virtual reality services, design iterations can be tested and refined in rapid digital iterations, streamlining the process and minimizing costly mistakes.

Virtual reality allows for more creative experimentation, as designers can test various design elements and concepts in a risk-free environment. This improved iteration process can lead to more innovative and efficient designs, resulting in better final projects.

Digital Twin Construction

ATS’s virtual reality services also enable the creation of digital twins, which are precise, virtual representations of a physical property. Digital twins can be utilized throughout a project’s lifecycle, from initial design and construction to property management and maintenance.

By creating a digital twin, architects, developers, and property managers can monitor and analyze a property’s performance, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions. This can lead to more sustainable and efficient buildings benefiting property owners and occupants.

Virtual Reality for Sustainable Design

As the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly buildings grows, virtual reality can be crucial in facilitating green design practices. ATS’s virtual reality services allow architects and designers to simulate and analyze the environmental impact of their designs, including energy consumption, water usage, and material waste.

By providing insights into a building’s performance, virtual reality can help architects optimize designs for sustainability, ultimately contributing to a greener and more environmentally conscious industry.

Immersive Presentations for Clients

In addition to improving the design process, virtual reality offers a unique and engaging way to present projects to clients. ATS’s VR services enable architects and designers to showcase their work in immersive, photorealistic environments, providing clients with a deeper understanding of the proposed design.

This improves communication and increases the chances of securing client approval and moving forward with projects. As clients become more familiar with virtual reality, immersive presentations will likely become an industry standard.

Customization and Personalization

ATS’s virtual reality services allow clients to customize and personalize property designs before construction even begins. By immersing clients in a virtual environment, they can explore different design options, such as various finishes, furnishings, and layouts. This level of customization can result in a more tailored and satisfying final product, ultimately enhancing client satisfaction and increasing the likelihood of successful project completion.

Virtual Reality Training for Architects and Designers

Virtual reality also offers the potential for immersive training and education for architects and designers. By simulating real-world scenarios and environments, VR can provide valuable hands-on experience and foster a better understanding of design principles and techniques. As technology becomes more widespread, we expect to see more training programs and educational resources incorporating virtual reality.

The Future of Real Estate Marketing

As virtual reality continues transforming real estate design and architecture, it’s also reshaping how properties are marketed and sold. ATS’s virtual reality services can create engaging and immersive property tours, allowing potential buyers to explore properties from anywhere in the world. This expands the reach of marketing efforts and helps properties stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

The Long-Term Impact of Virtual Reality on Real Estate Design and Architecture

As virtual reality becomes more widespread and accessible, we expect to see even more significant changes in the real estate design and architecture industries. With improved visualization, enhanced collaboration, and more efficient design processes, virtual reality is poised to revolutionize how we create, experience, and interact with the built environment.

The impact of virtual reality on the future of real estate design and architecture is undeniable. ATS’s virtual reality services are at the forefront of this transformation, offering innovative solutions that enhance the design process, streamline project management, and create immersive experiences for clients and potential buyers alike. By embracing this cutting-edge technology, architects, designers, and developers can stay ahead of the curve and continue to shape the industry’s future.

To learn more about ATS’s virtual reality services and how they can benefit your real estate design and architecture projects, visit our website at networkats.com and discover our range of state-of-the-art solutions. Take advantage of the opportunity to revolutionize your projects and create immersive experiences that exceed expectations with ATS’s virtual reality services.

Investment opportunity with an AI + XR startup: Sphere (deadline is Sept 10)

We’re thrilled to offer VRARA members an exclusive first-of-its-kind opportunity. This is your chance to become part owner in a leading enterprise XR company at the forefront of innovation, as they push the boundaries into AI. 

Sphere’s device-agnostic XR software stands out amongst the market’s leading enterprise-ready platforms. Its unified solution seamlessly integrates into the workplace to empower customers to supercharge communication, enhance training, boost sales, and improve frontline efficiency. Sphere’s customers include Fortune 500 companies such as Micron, Volkswagen, Pfizer, as well as a soon-to-be announced top aerospace company.

The company has established itself as a leader in spatial collaboration and is now welcoming investment to fast-track development of its disruptive, leading-edge AI integration. This initiative, with confirmed customer buy-in, aims to unlock AI's full potential by granting it "eyes and ears" through XR. Imagine AI with real-world context - that's the revolution Sphere is pioneering.

Sphere is launching a crowdfunding campaign and before they open the campaign up to the public, VRARA members have private early access to participate at a discounted rate. This is a huge opportunity to become a part owner in the groundbreaking future of XR. 

How to Participate:

Follow this link here to gain early access to this discounted investment opportunity and learn more about Sphere’s crowdfunding campaign.

VRARA members will also be able to share this special opportunity with friends and family! While the private access link will only be distributed through our organization’s closed channels, members can share it to their own personal networks as an added bonus. 

How to Invest:

Follow this link here to gain early access and the discounted investment opportunity.

D Code:Unlock AR Experiences with AR QR Code App

From VRARA Member Travancore Analytics.

In a world craving instant engagement, waiting to install or download an application is too much of a hassle. Understanding this need, Travancore Analytics created an instant augmented reality (AR) QR application that can be accessed by just scanning a QR code. From 3D models, videos, images, PDFs, or web links, our instant AR application delivers a complete AR experience without requiring an app download. This solution allows users to create AR applications directly on the platform without the need for downloads or technical expertise, and manage dynamic content in real-time, ensuring secure and private cross-platform compatibility.

Creating an AR application from scratch each time was challenging, but D Code meets the demand for seamless, fast, innovative, and interactive experiences by transforming everyday encounters with dynamic QR codes and AR. This is crucial for businesses, educators, and marketers who need to captivate and inform their audiences effectively. D Code empowers retailers to revolutionize shopping experiences, educators to make learning interactive, and artists to add new dimensions to their work. Its intuitive design, combined with detailed analytics and a secure platform, allows anyone to create, scan, and enjoy AR content, enhancing customer engagement and providing valuable insights while maintaining privacy. 

Explore our case study to learn more: 

https://www.travancoreanalytics.com/case-study/augmented-reality-qr-co de/ 

Website: https://www.travancoreanalytics.com/

Follow us on Linkedin for latest updates: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/travancore-analytics/

PIXO VR + IIFX Deliver NextGen Virtual Reality Training to Mercedes Benz Stadium Staff

July 9, 2024, Jackson, Mississippi – On 25 and 26 June 2024, frontline workers, supervisors, and managers at Mercedes Benz Stadium were the first to participate in the  ASPIRE (Action – Study – Prepare – Inspire – Rise – Be Exceptional), a training program jointly developed by the Innovation Institute for Fan Experience (IIFX) in partnership with Intel Corporation, Dell Technologies, PIXO VR, with the support of VRARA Member PIXO XR and the National Minority Emerging and Innovative Technologies Consortium. 

“The ASPIRE initiative is designed to deliver industry-relevant skills training to the multi-generational sports and entertainment industry frontline staff, supervisors, and managers using virtual reality technology.  This joint initiative addresses a skills gap for the sports and entertainment workforce,” said Dr. Lou Marciani, the Director and Co-Founder of IIFX.  

ASPIRE provides workers with virtual reality training from PIXO that enables them to easily access effective immersive training to enhance their professional competencies and capabilities. The program provides sports and entertainment workers access to relevant, curated content through NextGen technology to help them grow their skills, increase their competency, and enhance their capabilities for current and future roles.  IIFX chose to partner with PIXO as they are focused on helping workers win at work, and their patented platform that can support this kind of scale. 

Virtual reality training delivers a fully immersive and interactive learning experience.  This training, in topics such as conflict resolution and other skills, can engage workers, and help sports and entertainment venues recruit and retain a multi-generational workforce by providing transferable, highly marketable skills.

As with many sectors, the sports and entertainment industry, which released millions of workers during the Covid-19 pandemic, is trying new ways to recruit, train, and retain a multi-generational workforce in the post-pandemic era.  

Workers should be confident that they have the skills they need to win in their work role. Critical to an inclusive post-pandemic job recovery is providing engaging training opportunities to develop essential skills to the people hardest hit by job losses, including lower income workers, women, and underserved and underrepresented groups. 

“The IIFX purpose aligns well with PIXO’s,” says Sean Hurwitz, CEO and Founder of PIXO. “Our goal is to partner with the best companies in their field, like IIFX in sports and entertainment, and together empower employees to win at their jobs. Virtual reality training increases employee confidence, leading to reduced turnover, risk, and costs. Training in a realistic, interactive virtual environment quickly gives workers the experience to tackle those situations in the real world, whether it’s CPR, driving a forklift, or handling conflict. We are excited to partner with IIFX to see how training in Virtual Reality will impact the sports & entertainment industry.”

“We are thrilled to start the ASPIRE initiative with AMB Sports + Entertainment and Mercedes Benz Stadium’s outstanding team of frontline staff, supervisors, and managers.  We are pleased to be here with PIXO, who is empowering the training concept with virtual reality courses and PICO XR, who is generously providing their amazing virtual reality headsets”, said Dr. Marciani.  

The ASPIRE program will be delivered to four additional professional sports and entertainment venues in 2024, that host Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer, National Basketball League, National Football League, and the Women’s National Basketball Association.    

To get involved in the IIFX ASPIRE skilling initiative, contact IIFX, at marciani@iifx.org or info@iifx.org.

About PIXO VR

An industry leader for Extended Reality training solutions, PIXO is a pioneer in learning innovation, with service excellence and performance results to help companies—and their customers—win at work. PIXO’s dedication to innovative XR training that’s even easier to deploy, use and manage has resulted in our Reality Intelligence™ (RI) platform. RI offers global and large-scale training organizations the opportunity to add value to training offerings by giving users the ability to manage their portfolio of VR programs with unmatched flexibility, customization and ease.  PIXO is turning Virtual Reality into A Winning Reality™.

About IIFX

Founded in August 2020, the Innovation Institute for Fan Experience (IIFX) is building the leading and most trusted authority on the ‘FAN JOURNEY’ for the sports & entertainment industry.  IIFX provides training, industry content creation, FAN JOURNEY best practices, consultancy, and business and education services to domestic and international sports & entertainment organizations. 

Learn More

VRARA Welcomes New Global Advisory Board Members

The VRARA is pleased to announce the addition of Munjeet Singh of Booz Allen Hamilton, Daniel O'Brien of HTC Vive, Jonathan Martin of Magic Leap, and Dan Nieves of Meta to the Global Board of Advisors. Their expertise will further allow VRARA members to flourish in a community that values and celebrate creativity and ambition.

Along with our current outstanding board members Amy Peck of Endeavor XR and Brian Volegsang of Qualcomm, they will support the executive leadership team and members of the Association to help develop new programs and initiatives to further the mission of the VRARA to foster collaboration between spatial computing solution providers and end-users in order to accelerate growth. 

“We are really excited to have these leaders joining our global leadership team”, says VRARA President Nathan Pettyjohn. “With their passion for XR, tremendous experiences in growing technology organizations around the world, and hands-on experience in their fields, they will help us take the Association to the next level and provide even more value to the XR ecosystem globally”.

Munjeet Singh

Daniel O'Brien

Jonathan Martin

Amy Peck

Brian Vogelsang

Dan Nieves

dilium announces the launch of 3DtoMe on Apple Vision Pro: A New Era for 3D Design and Spatial Collaboration

dilium, an innovative Italian SME specializing in the design and development of projects based on Frontier Technologies for the digital evolution of B2B and B2C channels, has launched the 3DtoMe app now available on Apple Vision Pro. 

From Mobile to Mixed Reality: The Evolution of the 3DtoMe App 

With 3DtoMe for iOS, the company embarked on a journey with the goal of making complex tools accessible in a simplified manner, allowing users to create high-quality 3D models by taking simple photos with their device. This made 3D modeling accessible and intuitive, opening new way for designers without the need for specific skills. With the subsequent launch on macOS, 3DtoMe introduced advanced tools for annotations, creating 3D models from professional photos, and the ability to import existing models, facilitating sharing in formats suitable for web integration and augmented reality. The Web Viewer further extended the platform's accessibility, enabling the viewing and interaction with 3D models directly from the browser without the need for any software. 

The Web Viewer further extended the platform's accessibility, enabling the viewing and interaction with 3D models directly from the browser without the need for any software. 

A New Level of Innovation with Apple Vision Pro 

After the extraordinary success of  Spatial Drawing, the spatial drawing application launched by dilium last March in San Francisco, which achieved over two million views on social platforms, the excitement for the world of Spatial Computing led to the release of a 3DtoMe version dedicated to Spatial Collaboration. Thus, this app takes the innovation of the entire system to a higher level. 

Regarding the launch of 3DtoMe on the Apple Vision Pro store, Donato De Ieso, Co-founder and CEO of dilium and Italian Chapter President of VRARA, declared:

“We can't wait to see what our users will do with all the possibilities offered by our latest app. The moment of release is always exciting because it offers new stimuli to push beyond one's limits. This release will provide ample space for creativity and allow for unprecedented collaboration. Regarding Spatial Collaboration, it's like being in a Zoom or Teams call, except that people can share and interact with their products within their environment.” 

This launch represents a significant milestone for dilium and confirms the company's ongoing commitment to innovation and providing cutting-edge tools for design and Spatial Computing professionals. 

3DtoMe App: Now Available in the App Store

The 3DtoMe app is now available in Apple stores for free. The 3DtoMe ecosystem will offer various plans designed to meet the needs of professional users, covering a range of costs starting from $29.99/month to the complete solution with all features valued at $79,99/month. A third customizable plan is also available for enterprise companies. 

For more information, visit the website https://3dto.me

APP: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/3dtome/id6449940075

A demo video is available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-C4-XObDIA

dilium: The Company

dilium is an innovative SME that, through specific skills in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Technology Innovation Management (TIM) sectors, offers innovative technological solutions to support companies in growing their business. The company specializes in next-generation technologies such as Machine Learning & AI, Blockchain, and Spatial Computing to support digital transformation in B2B and B2C markets. Starting from analyzing clients' needs, it maps the technological landscape to build a performant development program. In September 2023, dilium was selected by Apple to participate in the Developers Lab in London and Cupertino for the new Apple Vision Pro. As part of research and development, the company holds a European patent for the use of a random extraction algorithm in Augmented Reality contests conducted through the AR Win platform.

Contact the author: 

dilium S.r.l.

Donato DE IESO

Email: donato@dilium.com

AR for Education: New Scopes to Revolutionize Training

A prominent educational institution sought to revolutionize student learning experiences by engaging Travancore Analytics to develop a highly interactive training solution for understanding DC generators. We incorporated cutting-edge AR technology to meet industry standards and exceed client expectations, enabling self-learning and distance education scenarios seamlessly.

To develop an immersive training program for interactive learning of DC generators, we created a sophisticated 3D model enriched with comprehensive multimedia content. Integrated into a Unity application, our solution leverages the Vuforia library to detect real hardware and recognize planes. Trainees can explore equipment, dismantle components with a simple tap for closer inspection, and access offline explanations. This AR-based approach enhances distance learning capabilities, offering detailed insights into the DC generator model with voice-guided assistance when physical demonstrations aren't feasible.

Explore our case study to learn more about how our AR solution transformed educational training.

Website: https://www.travancoreanalytics.com/

Follow us on Linkedin for latest updates: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/travancore-analytics/

Virtual Reality for Rehabilitation: A Game-Changing Approach to Recovery

Rehabilitation encompasses a range of treatments designed to help individuals with health challenges improve their daily lives by enabling them to perform essential tasks such as caring for loved ones and maintaining independence in activities like education, employment, and recreation. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 2.4 billion people globally could benefit from rehabilitation services. With the rise in chronic illnesses and disabilities, the demand for rehabilitation is expected to increase significantly. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising technology in rehabilitation over the past two decades, offering immersive environments that aid in physical and cognitive recovery. VR devices, such as head-mounted displays, create virtual scenarios that help patients retrain their brains and reorganize their abilities and functions, addressing impairments like memory loss and mobility issues following brain injuries or diseases.

The affordability and accessibility of VR devices have expanded the possibilities for rehabilitation, making VR a practical tool in various therapeutic settings. VR is utilized to manage burn injuries, aid stroke recovery, treat mental health conditions, and support musculoskeletal management, although more research is needed to refine clinical approaches. Virtual rehabilitation therapies leverage repetitive physical and cognitive exercises to stimulate neuron reorganization, thereby helping individuals regain lost functions. The global market for VR-based rehabilitation was valued at $135.2 million in 2022 and is projected to grow to $371.03 million by 2030, driven by the potential for safe, simulated environments and government investments in VR healthcare solutions. Moreover, 92% of patients prefer VR rehab over conventional therapy, underscoring the technology's growing acceptance and effectiveness in improving rehabilitation outcomes. 

We are proud to share an article from one of our members, Travancore Analytics, highlighting their significant contributions and innovations in the field of VR rehabilitation.

For more details: https://www.travancoreanalytics.com/virtual-reality-rehabilitation/

Website: https://www.travancoreanalytics.com/

Follow us on Linkedin for latest updates: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/travancore-analytics/

Tess McKinney appointed as co-chair for Healthcare Committee

Please join us in welcoming Tess McKinney to our Healthcare Industry Committee!

Tess McKinney serves as the visionary leader behind XRenegades, a subsidiary of Firework Media Studio, LLC.  Renowned as an industry-leading consulting studio, XRenegades specializes in Immersive Virtual, Augmented &  Mixed Reality (XR), 360 Degree Tour Design, Technology Training, and VR/AR/XR Reselling, particularly tailored for  the education and healthcare sectors. With an impressive two-decade tenure in the technology industry and a fervor  for innovation, Tess has established herself as an expert in the field of immersive technology. 

Her LinkedIn profile showcases a rich tapestry of  connections that span industry leaders, innovators, and thought leaders in XR/VR/AR/AI, healthcare, and education.  Tess leverages this extensive network to stay abreast of the latest trends, developments, and collaborative  opportunities in these rapidly evolving domains. She is helping XR/AR/VR/AI businesses promote themselves  through her vast connections. Tess has also pioneered a groundbreaking platform that meticulously lists VR/AR/XR  companies in the healthcare industry. This platform streamlines the process for educational institutions and  businesses to explore and adopt these cutting-edge technologies, accessible at XRenegades' website.

XRenegades boasts a track record of successfully guiding colleges and universities in the implementation of optimal  immersive technologies for their students. Tess has collaborated with prestigious institutions such as The Ohio State  University College of Nursing, Brazosport College, and the University of Texas at San Antonio College of Nursing.  Currently, she is actively involved in building XR simulation labs and implementing XR solutions for students and  faculty at the University of Texas at San Antonio College of Nursing and College of Dentistry. 

Furthermore, XRenegades plays a pivotal role in connecting educators with leading companies in the immersive  technology field, fostering partnerships with notable entities like VictoryXR, SimX VR, UP360, VRPatients, ArborXR,  Cleanbox Technologies, MACE Virtual Labs, Merge, Bodyswaps-VR Soft Skills Training, Darley, Xennial Digital, Reulay,  PixoXR, HTC, AscentXR, MAI-Bodymaps, InceptionXR, Healthysimulation.com, Kaleidoscope XR, Near-Life, CurioXR,  PsyTech VR, VR-Lab, Facilitate, Learning Time VR, among others. Tess is also spearheading the development of an  active shooter situational learning VR application for K-12+, scheduled for completion in Spring 2024 with the  assistance of students from the University Of Nebraska at Lincoln Senior Design called XRSurvive. 

Presently, Tess is engaging in consulting agreements with companies in the XR/AR/VR/AI industries, providing  expertise and support for the training and implementation of innovative projects within the healthcare and  education sectors. 

Previously, Tess served as a full-time Instructional Technologist for the University of Nebraska Medical Center Global  Center for Health Security. During her tenure, she demonstrated unwavering dedication to developing XR education  and remote consultation services for small and rural healthcare facilities, aiding them in advancing their knowledge  of Infection Prevention and Control Services in Sterile Processing. Tess recently concluded this role, leaving behind  a legacy of impactful contributions in the realm of instructional technology for healthcare education. 

Having contributed to the creation of commercialized virtual reality simulations (Rollover Ranch, Heart Health Escape  Room, Nurse’s Escape) with a team from the University of Nebraska Medical Center- College of Nursing-Lincoln  which are available on the XRenegades website. 

Tess McKinney is actively involved in various professional groups, holding roles such as Committee Co-Chair for  VRARA Healthcare, Board Member of Nebraska Distance Learning Association, Leader of "The Cool Kids Table," Co Leader/Outreach Coordinator for University of Nebraska: NeVRNER group, and Webmaster/Member with the  College and Community Service Organization- Southeast Community College Chapter. Additionally, she serves as an  Adjunct Technology Faculty at Southeast Community College-Nebraska. 

For more information, visit XRenegades' website: https://xrenegades.com/ 

At XRenegades, technology evolves, and so do we. Hire a Renegade!

VRdirect Unveils VRXF File Format Revolution at AWE Expo – Transforming Enterprise VR Experience Across Different Platforms

Munich, GERMANY / Chicago, ILLINOIS (June 12, 2024) – In the midst of a booming demand for virtual reality (VR) solutions at the enterprise level, VRdirect (www.vrdirect.com) has announced today a game-changing innovation the debut of the VRXF – Virtual Reality eXchange Format.

This cutting-edge technology, a pioneer in its field, sets a new standard for creating and sharing VR projects, aiming to unify the currently fragmented VR market.

The VRXF file format, now under VRdirect’s owned patent in the United States, pledges to significantly simplify the transfer and use of VR projects across various devices, from VR headsets to mobile phones, tablets, and web browsers. This advancement represents a giant leap in overcoming ecosystem incompatibilities, a major obstacle to VR adoption in the enterprise sector.

“Our goal was crystal clear – to forge a universally adaptable VR framework that fosters seamless integration and interaction across all platforms,” remarked Dr. Rolf Illenberger, CEO of VRdirect. “With VRXF, enterprises can harness VR technology more efficiently, ensuring a smoother, more cohesive digital transformation.”

Key highlights of the VRXF file format include:

• Universal Compatibility: Guarantees accessibility and usability of VR projects across a broad spectrum of devices and operating systems.

• Patented Technology: VRdirect holds exclusive rights to this pioneering technology, setting a new industry standard.

• Seamless Integration: Hardware partners are encouraged to embed the VRXF format into their operating systems, streamlining access for enterprise users.

• Enhanced Efficiency: Streamlines the creation, editing, and sharing of VR projects, mirroring the transformative impact of Adobe Acrobat's PDF files.

This announcement not only underscores VRdirect’s dedication to innovation but also positions VRXF as a potential global standard akin to the ubiquitous PDF. It embodies our commitment to delivering solutions that not only address current market demands but also anticipate future trends and challenges.

Visit VRdirect’s booth (#508) at AWE USA 2024 Expo in Long Beach, California to experience the VRXF file format firsthand through live demonstrations and interactive sessions.

VRXF marks the next step in VRdirect’s evolution since its 2018 inception, making it an industry veteran in this rapidly evolving sector. VRdirect’s software solutions have empowered companies to create and share VR projects effortlessly. The VRdirect Studio enables easy creation without expert skills, and projects can be shared globally in real-time using the VRdirect Cloud and VRdirect player for Smartphone, Tablet, Browser-/Website, or VR headsets. VRdirect also made headlines in 2024 by introducing cutting-edge generative AI features into its software, eliminating the need for secondary equipment or detailed programming to capture and build 360° scenes with a camera.

The company’s clients include major enterprises like Siemens, Nestlé, Porsche, Deutsche Telekom, and a lot more around the world.

About VRdirect

VRdirect is a leading software company specializing in VR solutions for businesses. With an easy-to-use platform, VRdirect enables enterprises to create, distribute, and manage VR experiences without coding or technical expertise. VRdirect has collaborated with global brands to deliver immersive VR solutions driving engagement, training, and sales.

For further information, please contact:
Jake Dee
jaked@vrdirect.com
1-617-285-8087