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

Banuba's Virtual Try-On Technology Boosts Boca Rosa's Pre-Launch Event Sales to Over $900,000

Banuba, a leading provider of augmented reality solutions, played a pivotal role in the success of Boca Rosa's highly anticipated pre-launch. The event, held over 4 hours, saw Boca Rosa sell an impressive 64,413 items, totaling more than $900,000 in sales. 

Banuba's cutting-edge virtual try-on functionality (VTO) revolutionized the beauty shopping experience for over 1.1 million attendees at the event. By leveraging this technology, customers were able to virtually test Boca Rosa's cosmetics, allowing them to visualize how the products would look on them before making a purchase.

The integration was facilitated by metaKosmos, Brazilian technology company and a partner of Banuba. They helped Banuba and Boca Rosa get in touch, demonstrated the advantages of VTO and provided technical support.

The virtual try-on feature proved to be a game-changer, with a staggering 1.73 million try-on sessions conducted during the event. This innovative technology not only enhanced customer engagement but also significantly increased conversion rates, driving sales and solidifying Boca Rosa's position as a trailblazer in the beauty industry.

"We are thrilled to have partnered with Boca Rosa to deliver a truly immersive and interactive shopping experience for their customers," said Anton Liskevich, CPO/Co-Founder at Banuba. "By integrating our virtual try-on technology, we were able to provide a personalized and engaging platform that empowered consumers to make informed purchasing decisions."

The success of the pre-launch event underscores the growing demand for innovative solutions that bridge the gap between online and offline shopping experiences. Banuba's collaboration with Boca Rosa exemplifies the power of augmented reality in transforming the beauty industry and shaping the future of retail.

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 hand.

Recap summary of our meeting with Merck

During our weekly online sessions, we had the opportunity to talk with an executive from Merck.

The conversation centered around the benefits of using virtual reality (VR) training in the chemical industry, including reducing site ramp-up times and improving safety. Participants discussed the importance of change management and involving subject matter experts in the process, as well as the factors that influence the adoption of VR training, such as age and technology familiarity. The need to prove a strong return on investment and have concrete numbers to implement trainings focused on health, safety, and environment was also emphasized.

The meeting began with a discussion on XR applications, focusing on augmented reality and virtual reality in chemical operations. Challenges in implementing AR/VR solutions at Merck were highlighted, particularly regarding data privacy and cybersecurity. The importance of user involvement and change management in implementing solutions was emphasized. The meeting also covered the application of XR technology in training and operations, the impact of age on work adoption, and the necessity of real practice alongside virtual reality training. There was a decision to implement VR-based training for safety and a plan to present at our Enterprise Summit on July 24th.

XR + AI for organizations that are BUILT-TO-LAST

We added more speakers and sessions for our Enterprise Summit 2024: ​Best in XR, Digital Twin, and AI​ on July 24, including GM, Merck, Boeing, UPS, Lenovo, Amazon AWS, Eastman Chemical Co and already have 1650+ people registered.

​Ashish Kulkarni​, CEO at ​Bell Immersive Technology Solutions​ (part of ​Bell Energy​), will present: XR + AI for organizations that are BUILT-TO-LAST. Get an insight into successful implementation of XR + AI in Large Organizations (10K+ employees). Know about XR + AI solutions in the Energy, Aviation, Ports, Healthcare and Defence Sectors. Learn about design XR + AI solutions to increase revenue.

Ashish Kulkarni, specializes in helping enterprises design and implement innovative solutions that increases revenue growth, fosters sustainability, and strengthens organizational resilience. As an engineer and technology designer with a passion for driving product development, Ashish has successfully implemented enterprise-wide XR-AI solutions for large organizations in the Energy, Ports, Healthcare, and Governance sectors.

Bell Immersive Technology Solutions​ is a global tech company implementing transformative solutions in XR. With global experience through offices in USA, UK and UAE, they apply international best practices to their client solutions. Bell Immersive offers concept, design, implementation, and project management services for XR powered by AI. Products such as ALERTSim, AI Insights, Greenwave and Paradigm are used by organizations globally and help them build lasting organizations.

About our event

Our annual ​Enterprise Summit​ will be a virtual LinkedIn Live event. LinkedIn has 1 Billion users and more than 57M businesses are listed on LinkedIn, and our event will help elevate your brand and get you established as an authority in the industry. Our last virtual event on LinkedIn Live, ​Best of Europe​ was very successful with lots of engagement; we had 3200+ attendees and 30+ speakers. Plus, 100’s watched the recordings!

If you would like to speak at and or sponsor at event, please email kris@thevrara.com

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/

XR Hack Announces International Hackathon Series for August and September

Berlin, Germany - May 25, 2024 – XR Hack is excited to announce the launch of its highly anticipated international hackathon series, which will take place in four major European cities this summer. The series will kick off in August and continue through September, with events scheduled in Istanbul, London, Cologne, and Stockholm.

XR Hack is the premier global XR Hack Jam, hosted across various international locations. This three-day event invites companies to discover and explore potential XR applications alongside seasoned XR developers and designers. For the first time, XR Hack is organizing a multi-location hackathon, uniting experts to advance the frontiers of XR and AI technology. 

Event Schedule

• Istanbul: September 6-8, 2024

• London: August 14-16, 2024

• Cologne: August 18-20, 2024

• Stockholm: September 6-8, 2024

Hackathon Highlights

1. Intensive Hacking Sessions:

• Three days of immersive coding, design, and development.

• Mentorship from industry leaders and XR experts.

• Focus on Tools and Tech of the last 11 months.

2. Exciting Challenges and Prizes:

• Specific challenges focused on real-world applications of XR technology.

• Meta is sponsoring the grand prize of 100,000 USD. Corporate sponsors like Pearson will provide additional prizes.

• Opportunities for participants to pitch their projects to corporate XR decision-makers, investors, and industry leaders.

3.Workshops and Collaboration:

• Top expert workshops on the latest XR trends and technologies.

• Opportunities to network and collaborate with like-minded XR innovators.

• Teams will be formed on-site, or participants can join with pre-existing teams.

"We are thrilled to host the XR Hack hackathon series in these vibrant cities," said Rahel Demant, CEO of XR Hack. Our goal is to foster a community of passionate XR developers and innovators, providing them with the resources and inspiration to create revolutionary solutions. We look forward to seeing innovative and unique projects emerge from the hack."

XR Developers and Designers, from seasoned developers to studios eager to learn and contribute, are welcome to join XR Hack. Applications for each event are now open.

For more information and to apply for the hackathon, visit www.xrhack.com.

About XR Hack: XR Hack is a premier hackathon series dedicated to advancing the field of extended reality (XR). By bringing together talented individuals worldwide, XR Hack aims to drive innovation and showcase the transformative potential of XR technologies.

Media Contact: XR Hack Communications Team
Email: info@xrhack.com
Phone: +49 (176) 1027 6765

Website: www.xrhack.com

For additional information or media inquiries, please contact the XR Hack Communications Team at info@xrhack.com or +49 (176) 1027 6765.

Banuba Revolutionizes Video Editing with AI Clipping SDK for Mobile

Banuba, a leading provider of augmented reality solutions, has announced a major update to its Video Editor SDK, introducing the groundbreaking AI clipping (autocut) feature. It leverages artificial intelligence to seamlessly create engaging videos from user-selected clips, setting a new standard in editing technology.

AI clipping feature offers a myriad of benefits for app developers and users alike. By automating the video creation process, it enables a higher volume of user-generated content, leading to increased user engagement and longer session times within apps. This innovative tool empowers users to effortlessly transform their raw footage into polished videos that captivate audiences.

AI SDK for clipping on mobile simplifies the content creation process through a series of intuitive steps:

1. User selects clips and music. People can choose their desired clips and accompanying music within the app.

2. AI trims the videos. The AI algorithm intelligently trims the selected clips to match the tempo and rhythm of the chosen track.

3. AI adds various effects. Autocut enhances the content by adding a variety of effects to create visually stunning content.

4. User exports, edits, or regenerates the clip. Upon completion, users have the flexibility to export the video as is, make further edits, or regenerate the clip for a fresh perspective.

"We are thrilled to introduce the AI clipping feature in our updated video editor SDK," said Alexei Korolenok, Product Manager at Banuba. "By harnessing the power of AI, we are empowering users to unleash their creativity and produce professional-quality videos with ease. This update makes content creation accessible for anyone with a vision, regardless of their editing skills."

Banuba’s Video Editor SDK is a software development kit perfect for:

• Social media apps

• Photo/video editing apps

• Live streaming apps

• eCommerce

• Educational apps

• Lifestyle apps 

• etc.

It is compatible with native Android and iOS, as well as React Native and Flutter.

With US President signing the bill to ban TikTok, companies looking to fill the market gap can benefit from Banuba's Video Editor SDK. This solution can be integrated into an app within hours and offers all the necessary functionality for creating exciting short-form content.

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 hand.

Contacts:

Email: info@banuba.com

Banuba official blog:  https://www.banuba.com/blog 

Banuba on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/banuba 

Banuba on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/banuba-AR

The VRARA appoints Zuriñe Hernandez Co-Chair of the VRARA Energy Committee

The VRARA is pleased to announce the appointment of Zuriñe Hernandez as the co-chair of the Energy Committee to help lead the VRARA’s efforts to connect the energy industry with XR technologies. The VRARA is the largest member association focused on XR technologies with over 50 chapters globally and over 55k participants in our global and local events and newsletter subscribers and the energy sector is a rapidly growing area of interest for XR and AI..

Zuriñe holds a PhD and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) and is currently a Program Manager with european virtual reality leader Virtualware, maker of the VIROO enterprise software platform, and is supporting Virualware’s customers globally. 

With a rich history of supporting the energy industry, Zuriñe has collaborated with large global organizations such as GE Hitachi Nuclear (now GE Vernova), Automotive manufacturer Gestamp, & Engineering services company Idom where she helped to develop and lead the implementation of numerous large-scale projects that leverage XR and advanced simulators.

Zuriñe was recently recognized for her efforts by Human Capital Management leader the Brandon Hall Group for the implementation of GE Vernova’s Nuclear Fuel Movement Simulator project. 

“I believe that we are at the tipping point for mass adoption of XR at scale in the Energy sector. XR is helping companies become more efficient, bring new products to market, train their dynamically changing workforce,and is helping to protect our environment.  The VR/AR Association is a great ecosystem to help educate, inform and network across the Energy and other industries.  I am honored to support the Energy committee and look forward to meeting all of the members” says Zuriñe Hernandez. 

Nathan Pettyjohn, President of the VR/AR Association adds, “the energy sector is an important community and we are excited that Zuriñe will be co-chairing this committee along with Susan Spark from SBL (formerly known as Schlumberger).  She brings deep implementation expertise that will benefit our members to learn how to adopt and scale XR technologies in energy and other industrial sectors”.

About Virtualware

Virtualware, based in Bilbao, Spain, is a global pioneer in the development of virtual reality solutions for large industrial, educational and healthcare conglomerates. Since its founding in 2004, the company has gained widespread recognition for its achievements. In 2021, Virtualware was recognized as the world’s most innovative VR company.

Publicly traded on Euronext Paris, Virtualware has recently expanded its operations into the United States, continuing to lead the development of the VRaas platform VIROO, and making it accessible to organizations of all sizes and sectors.

Highlights from our online session on Apple Immersive Apple TV Vision Pro

Thank you Chris Pfaff for hosting, APPLE IMMERSIVE SERIES CREATION, during our weekly online sessions.

We discussed the latest developments in extreme sports media, including Apple TV Plus's commission of 'Adventure,' a live-action series that sets a high narrative bar. They share their experiences in creating immersive stories through various mediums, emphasizing the importance of sensory elements. Speaker 1 and Speaker 2 discuss the future of mixed reality and its potential impact on industries, with Speaker 2 sharing their experiences working on a mixed reality project. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities of this technology and the importance of storytelling in VR.

“Adventure” follows pioneering athletes as they take on awe-inspiring challenges in some of the world’s most sensational locations.

Summary of our online session for Building Empathy With VR

Thank you Bianca Wright, for hosting, Inside Mental Health: Building Empathy With VR, during our weekly online sessions with 30+ professionals.

The meeting began with a focus on Anagram, a creative studio specializing in immersive experience design, discussing their projects and core questions. The team then delved into the Goliath VR experience, highlighting its impact on portraying schizophrenia accurately. They explored ADHD through the mixed reality experience Impulse and discussed creating immersive mental health training tools like Inside Mental Health. Storytelling's role in mental health training was emphasized, along with challenges faced by individuals with neurodiversity in the workplace. The team also discussed starting a business, virtual reality experiences for mental health support, and multilingual content availability. Next steps include finalizing platforms, expanding storytelling impact, and connecting with medical experts and communities. The meeting concluded with plans to connect on LinkedIn for further discussions on AI-related topics.

Topics & Highlights

1. Anagram - Immersive Experience Design

• Anagram, mentioning their specialization in interactive storytelling, immersive experiences, and the founders' vision to push the documentary form into new areas.

• various immersive experiences created by Anagram, highlighting projects like 'Dawn into the Dark,' 'The Palace of The Machines,' 'The Collider,' and 'Messages to a Posthuman Earth.'

2. Discussion about Goliath VR Experience

• The team discussed the development and success of the Goliath VR experience, including its launch in 2021, the story of John's journey with schizophrenia, the positive impact of gaming on his life, the portrayal of psychosis, the awards won, and the project's global recognition.

3. Exploring ADHD through Mixed Reality

• development of the mixed reality experience Impulse that explores living with ADHD and the challenges faced by individuals with the condition.

4. Creating Immersive Mental Health Training

• Inside Mental Health, a project focused on creating immersive training tools for medical professionals to improve understanding and empathy in mental health care.

5. Use of Storytelling in Mental Health Training

• importance of storytelling in mental health training, emphasizing the role of personal narratives in fostering empathy and compassion among participants, including medical professionals and students

• The discussion included details about a pilot program at the University of West of England involving immersive mental health training for students, with plans to expand to other higher education providers and collaboration with the NHS.

• insights into the structure of the mental health training session, highlighting the importance of onboarding, reflection sessions, and creating a safe space for participants to share their experiences.

6. Virtual Reality Experience Design and Reflection Sessions

• The next steps involve finalizing the platform, launching it, conducting additional research, and looking into how experiences like Impulse can be complementary to existing tools for ADHD and other mental health issues.

7. Discussion on Impact of Storytelling on Real World

• The next steps involve focusing on sharing stories related to ADHD, particularly Jon's story, to reach more people and make a real-world impact. Emphasis is on aligning with medical experts and communities before expanding to other areas like end-of-life care.

8. Challenges Faced by Individuals with Neurodiversity in Work

• The concern raised was about the challenges faced by individuals with neurodiversity, such as ADHD and Asperger's, in the workplace, including communication difficulties, self-regulation issues, and productivity concerns. The importance of utilizing gamification and technology like AI, VR, and AR to support these individuals was discussed.

9. Challenges in Starting a Business

• concerns about the challenges of needing immediate cash flow, marketing efforts, creating business proposals, and the complexities of B2B and B2C markets in starting a business.

10. Virtual Reality Experience and Mental Health Support

• concerns about potential triggers and challenges in offering a VR experience for mental health support, emphasizing the need for thorough trigger warnings and reflection sessions to support users.

• decisions made regarding the design of the onboarding process for the VR experience, including the inclusion of trigger warnings and reflection sessions to ensure a positive user experience.

• importance of training support staff beyond doctors, such as receptionists and cleaning staff, in dealing with mental health issues, indicating a potential next step for the project.

Recap of our session on Apple AI and Spatial Computing

Thank you Doug Hohulin for hosting our weekly online sessions on Apple AI and Spatial Computing.

Apple and Meta discussed their strategies in AI and spatial computing, with Apple highlighting its potential advantages in collecting data and leveraging it for on-device AI. Meta faced challenges such as content issues and its connection to Facebook. The speakers also discussed the potential of integrating XR and AI technologies, emphasizing the need for AI to improve the user experience in XR and the importance of focusing on geographic areas that are more receptive to innovation.

Highlights from AWE VRARA social mixer CORAL

The AWE VRARA social mixer, CORAL was a blast! With a bioluminescent ocean theme, the event was the perfect getaway from the convention. VRARA members were able to enjoy drinks, food and dancing to get the night started the right way. The event’s photo booth proved to be a hit with the booth full of people all night, posing with props to create unforgettable memories. The event was hosted by the Los Angeles and Orange County chapters.

Virtual Access, new VR app that revolutionizes virtual meetings and social interactions

Did you know 89% of corporate employees work in global virtual teams?

On July 24, join us for an inspiring and insightful session (Bridging Realities: Innovation, Leadership, and Empowerment in Tech) with Patrice Anderson, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Elite Enterprise Technology Inc. during our Enterprise Summit 2024: Best in XR, Digital Twin, and AI as she will introduce Virtual Access, an innovative VR app that revolutionizes virtual meetings and social interactions, set to launch this fall.

Patrice will also share her remarkable journey from a visionary entrepreneur to a pioneering leader in the tech industry. She will delve into her leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of resilience, vision, and community. She will discuss the impactful work of the JMA Foundation in Georgia, showcasing her dedication to philanthropy and giving back. As a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, Patrice will highlight her efforts to empower women in tech, sharing her personal experiences and the significance of mentorship and support networks.
​
Attendees will gain valuable insights into the future of virtual technology, the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, and the power of community engagement. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired by Patrice’s story and her vision for a more connected and inclusive tech world!

About our event

Our annual Enterprise Summit will be a virtual LinkedIn Live event. We already have 1450+ people registered and 30+ speakers from Merck, Boeing, UPS, Lenovo, Amazon AWS, Eastman, others.

LinkedIn has 1 Billion users and more than 57M businesses are listed on LinkedIn, and our event will help elevate your brand and get you established as an authority in the industry. Our last virtual event on LinkedIn Live, Best of Europe was very successful with lots of engagement; we had 3200+ attendees and 30+ speakers. Plus, 100’s watched the recordings!

Recap of our Healthcare Session: Pfizer, Harvard MedTech, Allergan, HIPAA

Thank you Lucky Lance Gobindram for presenting to 30 doctors, nurses, healthcare medical professionals about "Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Transformative Power of VR, AR, and XR" during our weekly online sessions https://www.thevrara.com/industry-committees and Alicja Jaworska for hosting.

The conversation centered around the potential of spatial computing and extended reality in healthcare, with speakers highlighting successful implementations in medical education and pain therapy. Speakers emphasized the immersive nature of VR/AR/MR, which can enhance collaboration and learning, and provide personalized healthcare experiences. However, adoption rates are low due to a lack of education and understanding among decision-makers and employees. The importance of education and training for healthcare professionals (HCPs) to effectively utilize these technologies was also discussed. Additionally, HIPAA compliance in healthcare technology was addressed, with speakers emphasizing that it is solvable and manageable in the current ecosystem.

The meeting started with a focus on Spatial Technology in Healthcare, highlighting Pfizer's use of virtual reality for training programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to cost savings and efficiency. The impact of Virtual Reality (VR) technology in healthcare was discussed, emphasizing cost savings, improved training processes, and patient outcomes. Practical hands-on experience with spatial technology through VR applications for medical education was explored, showcasing enhanced learning and cost savings. The discussion also touched on how immersive spatial technology enhances engagement and introduces new paradigms in human-computer interaction. The implementation of virtual reality technology in healthcare for patient treatment and team-based care coordination was discussed, with a decision made to implement VR for in-home use. Concerns were raised about low adoption rates of VR and AR technology in organizations. The meeting concluded with sharing contact information for further communication.

Topics & Highlights

1. Spatial Technology in Healthcare

• companies like Pfizer have saved millions by integrating spatial technology, providing efficiency and value.

• Pfizer's use of virtual reality for training programs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Pfizer turned to VR to train its staff rapidly and effectively by simulating the manufacturing process in a risk-free, immersive environment.

2. Impact of VR in Healthcare

• The discussion included various facts such as cost savings achieved by Pfizer, pain reduction percentages for patients, and the success rate of VR-trained surgical students.

• The decision to explore the impact of VR technology in healthcare and the need to advance with technology for better outcomes.

3. Practical Hands-On Experience with Spatial Technology

• Spatial technology offers practical hands-on experience that mirrors real-world scenarios, leading to more effective learning and memory retention.

• Implementation of spatial technology can result in 10% savings in CapEx and OpEx costs for organizations.

4. Enhanced Engagement through Immersivenes

• Immersive learning environments can significantly improve focus, understanding, and retention of information.

5. Spatial Computing and Human-Computer Interaction Paradigms

• Spatial computing introduces new paradigms in human-computer interaction, enabling more intuitive, natural ways of engaging with digital content, moving beyond traditional methods like mouth clicks and keystrokes to gestures and movements mirroring real-life actions.

• Discussion on a mixed reality workflow where practitioners use spatial computing to create treatment plans for patients, share them in real-time, and engage in practical learning, implementation, and execution.

• Exploration of novel possibilities with spatial computing, unlocking new interactions, learning opportunities, and business potentials by reimagining what's possible in a digital world.

6. Virtual Reality Healthcare Solutions

• Decision made to implement virtual reality technology for in-home use in healthcare to provide various benefits such as trauma relief, organic healing, and team-based treatment.

• The concern raised about low adoption rates of VR and AR technology in organizations due to cost, perception, and slow adoption by enterprises.

7. Implementation of Technology in Healthcare

• The discussion covers the implementation of technology in healthcare, including education for enterprises, creating a business case, cost and affordability at scale, and examples from Harvard MedTech and Allergan use case.

8. Enhanced Patient Engagement and Therapy

• The discussion revolves around enhanced patient engagement and therapy in healthcare, emphasizing interactive XR modules, simplifying medical information, and personalized health care journeys.

9. Virtual Reality in Healthcare

• application of mixed reality virtual reality technology in healthcare to enhance empathy and understanding among healthcare professionals for patients with vision issues.

• concern about HIPAA compliance in the context of data storage and cloud computing, highlighting the importance of meeting HIPAA regulations in digital environments.

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!

Xplorient Xpanse: A New Global XR Work Marketplace Now Open to XR Freelancers

WHO

Xplorient, a pioneering company in the XR industry, is thrilled to announce the launch of its innovative platform, Xplorient Xpanse which helps you connect, collaborate and create. We are calling on all XR experts, including VR/AR/MR developers, engineers, designers, artists, project managers, content creators, instructional designers, scriptwriters, film makers, game designers, educational technology experts and many more to join our global XR work marketplace.

The XR industry is on the cusp of revolutionising the way we interact with technology and the world around us. The potential for immersive experiences in education, training, entertainment, and healthcare is immense. At Xplorient, we are excited to be at the forefront of this transformation, creating a platform that empowers XR professionals to innovate and excel.

WHAT

Xplorient Xpanse is a platform designed to connect skilled XR freelancers with exciting projects from employers across various industries. In the initial phase, we are focusing on onboarding freelancers to build a robust community of XR professionals. This will be followed by onboarding employers seeking top-tier talent for their XR projects.

WHEN

The platform is now open for registration! Freelancers can sign up today and start preparing to submit proposals for upcoming projects. The official launch for employers to post projects will follow in the coming weeks.

WHERE

Join us online at xplorientxpanse.com. Our platform is accessible worldwide, allowing you to connect with clients and collaborators from across the globe.

WHY

Xplorient Xpanse will offer XR professionals access to a diverse range of projects, enhancing their skills and expanding their portfolios. By joining our marketplace, freelancers can benefit from:

- Diverse Work Opportunities: Engage with projects in gaming, education, healthcare, and more, broadening your experience and expertise.

- Professional Networking: Connect with other XR professionals, potential collaborators, mentors, and industry leaders.

- Skill Development and Portfolio Growth: Work on cutting-edge projects that make you more attractive to future employers

ROI for Freelancers

By joining Xplorient Xpanse, freelancers can secure lucrative projects, build a strong professional network, and develop their skills in a rapidly growing industry, all without any registration fees.

For more information and to register, visit https://xplorientxpanse.com

Join Xplorient Xpanse today and be a part of the XR revolution. Together, we can shape the future of immersive technology!