Catch the in-depth video on all the new announcements made by Sony’s XR team at CES 2025! Watch as Thaisa Yammamura from Sony walks you through all the exciting announcements & demos for our VRARA OC Chapter President; Arvin Tehrani.. The interviews and demos were recorded in 3D and provide an unforgettable immersive experience with Dolby Vision 3D video on Apple Vision Pro and 4K 3D video on Youtube VR.
Watch on VRARA YouTube
Apple Vision Pro (use link directly): https://cdn.immersivemedialabs.com/immersive-hls/CES25_SonyFeature/CES25_SonyFeature.m3u8
Launch our INSEAD XR - AVRIS 𝗜𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗜 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 Platform
Launch our INSEAD XR - AVRIS 𝗜𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗜 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 Platform
AVRIS & INSEAD XR: Achieving a Milestone in Immersive AI Learning
AVRIS, in collaboration with INSEAD XR, has successfully launched its Immersive AI Platform Upgrade at scale. This milestone marks a significant step in the integration of advanced AI and XR technologies within academic environments.
During a recent session, over 300 learners engaged with the platform, utilizing Multi-Modal Learning capabilities. The system enabled seamless transitions between VR headsets, mobile devices, and laptops, supporting diverse learning contexts and environments.
The platform’s development was led by Dror Gill, focusing on infrastructure that facilitates real-time interaction and feedback. This technology has been integrated into Prof. Ithai Stern’s strategy course at INSEAD, providing a practical example of how immersive AI can enhance traditional academic programs.
Key Technical Highlights:
• Multi-Device Compatibility: Learners can switch between VR, mobile, and desktop environments without disruption.
• Real-Time Interaction: Advanced AI algorithms enable immediate feedback and interactive learning experiences.
• Data-Driven Learning Design: The system supports the collection and analysis of key data points to inform personalized learning pathways.
Development Process:
The project emphasized the alignment of technology with educational objectives. This involved selecting appropriate tools, mapping specific learning outcomes, and identifying critical data to measure impact and effectiveness. The focus was on creating an infrastructure that supports meaningful educational experiences through the integration of technology, content, and media.
Next Steps:
As AVRIS looks toward 2025, the focus will shift to expanding the capabilities of the Immersive AI Learning Toolbox. This will include further developments aimed at enhancing both on-campus and remote learning environments.
Acknowledgments
The project’s success reflects the contributions of several key individuals and teams, including INSEAD Dean Francisco Veloso, strategic input on AI and Human-Computer Interaction from Lily Fang, and the operational support of the INSEAD XR Abu Dhabi team, with special recognition to Carole Montias, Dezma D’souza, and Florian Schloderer.
For more information on the technical aspects of this project or to discuss potential collaborations, please reach out to the AVRIS team.
Your Website URL: http://xr.insead.edu
Melinda Cuilty of New Mexico State University joins the VRARA North America Colleges and Universities Committee
Melinda Cuilty of New Mexico State University joins the VRARA North America Colleges and Universities Committee
The VRARA is pleased to welcome Melinda Cuilty from NMSU Global as our newest member of the recently established VR/AR Association North America Colleges and Universities Committee.
This newly formed committee is chaired by Thomas Merrick from the University of Miami and will be focused on ecosystem development in the use of XR and AI in higher education across North America.
Melinda Cuilty is an Enterprise Instructional Technology Administrator at NMSU. Leading the VR program at NMSU Global. Melinda has been part of the team that has tripled student enrollment in VR courses since the Fall of 2024. She has also help secured a grant to collaborate with local K-12 teachers, integrating VR technology into their classrooms. Furthermore, Melinda is actively involved in piloting innovative VR applications to enhance the student learning experience. She is helping to pave the way for NMSU Global to start creating digital twins soon.
“I am incredibly excited that the VRARA has created this committee as a hub for collaboration, creativity, and the promotion of XR in education. I am eager to join the committee and contribute to the exciting programming being planned.” says Melinda.
Thomas Merrick adds “we are at a point where nearly all institutions of higher learning are implementing or evaluating how to leverage the power of immersive technologies. We need a place where academic professionals can collaborate. I am pleased to have Melinda and NMSU as one of the first members of our North America Committee!”
This VRARA North America Colleges and Universities Committee is open to all academic institutions to participate in. Please reach out to Tom Merrick at txm2025@miami.edu xxx or John Cunningham at john@thevrara.com for more information.
Join the VRARA National Public Sector Roadshow. Speakers and Technology Showcase participants wanted!
Join the VRARA National Public Sector Roadshow. Speakers and Technology Showcase participants wanted!
The VRARA Roadshow is designed to inform and educate public sector agencies across the United States and Canada about the capabilities of immersive and artificial intelligence technologies to positively improve operations.
The public sector encompasses nearly every vertical use case such as Defense, Public Safety, Healthcare, Education, Space exploration and Logistics just to name a few.
This conference series started in San Francisco on January 22nd and will continue throughout 2025! Details are being formalized and will be communicated via the VRARA Website and emailed to people that have registered to speak.
Some of the cities
San Francisco Jan 22nd (completed)
Orlando April 9&10 (confirmed)
Dallas
Houston
Washington DC
Atlanta
San Diego
Los Angeles
Denver
Huntsville
New York
Toronto
If you are interested in speaking or demonstrating at one or more of these events please fill out the google form so that we have you in our list!
https://forms.gle/iPwwoUiG61RyCwHd6
If you have any questions please email john@thevrara.com
VR/AR Association North America Colleges and Universities Committee Inaugural Meeting: Advancing XR in Higher Education with Meta and University of Miami
Thank you to Tom Merrick, Assistant Director of VR/AR Initiatives at the University of Miami for Chairing the VR/AR Association North America Colleges and Universities Committee and congratulations on your inaugural committee meeting!
The purpose of this committee is to provide a forum for any college and university in North America to collaborate, conduct joint research, identify and collaborate on grants and to figure out how to accelerate adoption of XR across higher education!
Our first guest speaker was Matthew Sanders, Education and VR Director at Meta who shared with the audience how Meta is preparing to help colleges and universities implement and scale XR with their Meta for Education services.
Matthew shared that they would like to see organizations like the VRARA and institutions like the University of Miami leading these types of initiatives where Meta can learn and support the members!
Thank you Matthew, we look forward to your continued involvement with the VRARA!
The University of Miami will be hosting their annual UMverse "Where Innovation Meets Imagination" conference On February 6&7.
Join industry experts such as Matthew Sanders from Meta, Daniel O'Brien from HTC Vice and John Cunningham from Virtualware along with many other tech visionaries, artists, and university scholars from around the globe in exploring the latest trends and innovations in XR technology.
For more info on UMverse click here:
Josh Meah appointed as Co-Chair for VR/AR Association Training Committee
We are thrilled to have Josh Meah help us lead our Training committee by hosting our weekly online sessions.
Josh is founder and CEO of JM&Co., a growth consultancy with a diverse background in commercializing disruptive ventures across two dozen industries in the private and public sector. Over the past 10 years, Josh’s efforts in workforce development have helped train thousands of truck drivers, broadband technicians, nurses, and clinicians on behalf of governments, colleges, private training centers, hospitals, and companies. Josh also leads technology integration programs for VR and AI in the defense sector and has helped introduce STEM training to children nationwide across hundreds of thousands of hours in digital learning environments.
““Training and leadership are among the best known ways to develop potential, enhance incomes, and improve outcomes. VR training revolutionizes and democratizes skill development, empowering everyone everywhere to be their best, most creative, and most successful versions of themselves. I look forward to sharing insights and facilitating discussions with partners active in the field VR / AR training discipline.””
🚀 Celebrating the Success of the VR/AR Association XR Roadshow in San Francisco! 🚀
We’re thrilled to share that our very first VR/AR Association (VRARA) XR Roadshow in San Francisco was a resounding success! 🎉 Bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and public sector representatives, this event showcased the latest and greatest in XR technology, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in immersive experiences.
A HUGE THANK YOU to our incredible sponsors who made this event possible:
📍 Daniel O'Brien, HTC VIVE – Revolutionizing the future of immersive experiences.
📍 Hugh Hayden, Niantic Spatial Platform – Pioneering augmented reality to connect people and the world around them.
📍 Dan McConnell, Booz Allen Hamilton – Driving innovation at the intersection of XR and public sector solutions.
📍David Moreno, Virtualware (EPA:MLVIR) – Pioneering enterprise VR solutions that empower businesses worldwide.
Your support has been instrumental in bringing together this vibrant community and driving the XR industry forward. 🙌
The energy, ideas, and collaboration at the event were truly inspiring, and we can't wait to continue this journey, expanding opportunities and fostering innovation across the XR ecosystem. Stay tuned for more roadshow stops and exciting developments ahead! 🚀
#XR #VR #AR #Metaverse #Innovation #Technology #VRARA #XRLeadership #SanFrancisco #HTCVive #Niantic #BoozAllen #XRRoadshow
Daniel O'Brien Dan McConnell Hugh Hayden Dan McDowell Jessica Beavers Trista Pierce Nathan Pettyjohn Gerard Feliciano Aaron Friedman Munjeet Singh
New Enterprise Simulation Lab in Berkeley reinforces the strategic partnership between Virtualware and HTC VIVE Americas
Berkeley, CA January 22, 2025 – HTC VIVE, the global leader in premium XR solutions, and the leading expert in 3D-driven enterprise SaaS Virtualware have inaugurated their first Enterprise Simulation Lab at the HTC VIVE Americas Headquarters in Berkeley, California. This marks the beginning of their collaboration in 2025, reflecting their shared mission to accelerate the adoption of immersive technologies within the Americas market.
The Enterprise Simulation Lab is a space designed to showcase the transformative capabilities of HTC VIVE’s solutions and hardware with VIROO, Virtualware’s award-winning ready-to-run XR platform. Fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology, this new lab provides a place to host immersive demonstrations that empower enterprises and institutions to unlock the potential of immersive learning, workforce development, and industrial training.
“This new Enterprise Simulation Lab in Berkeley is more than just a demonstration room—it’s the start of a journey to revolutionize how institutions and enterprises approach immersive learning and training. We are excited to see how this collaboration will shape the future of XR in 2025 and beyond.” said Daniel O’Brien, President of HTC VIVE Americas.
The HTC VIVE and VIROO Enterprise Simulation Lab marks the first step in a broader strategy between HTC VIVE and Virtualware to accelerate the adoption of enterprise XR solutions globally. This collaboration reinforces their shared vision of driving innovation and creating opportunities for organizations to grow sustainably through intuitive training experiences.
“Immersive education and workforce development are becoming increasingly critical as universities, colleges, and vocational schools, often supported by government and economic development organizations, seek cutting-edge tools to equip the next generation.” added John A. Cunningham, President of Virtualware USA.
As both companies continue to build on this partnership, the Enterprise Simulation Lab sets the foundation for joint initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and addressing the evolving needs of the XR ecosystem. Organizations interested in the Enterprise Simulation Lab can reach out to NAM_Sales@htc.com.
About HTC VIVE
HTC VIVE is the premier Extended Reality (XR) platform and ecosystem that creates true-to-life XR experiences for businesses and consumers. The VIVE ecosystem is built around premium XR hardware, software, and content. The VIVE business encompasses best-in-class XR hardware; VIVEPORT platform and app store; VIVE Enterprise Solutions for business customers; VIVE X, a US$100M VR business accelerator; and VIVE ARTS for cultural initiatives. HTC's business also includes the spatial collaboration platforms VIVERSE and VIVERSE for Business, HTC smartphones, the VIVE Mars CamTrack virtual production system, and our G REIGNS 5G connectivity solutions. For more information, please visit www.vive.com.
About Virtualware
With 20 years of expertise in real-time 3D technologies, Virtualware is a global leader in enterprise software as a service. The company empowers organizations to adopt immersive technology through its flagship product, VIROO, a ready-to-run XR platform. VIROO provides multiple ready-to-use applications and tools for developers to create and distribute custom multi-user XR applications while ensuring security, scalability, and performance.
Virtualware’s clients include GE Vernova, Ontario Power Generation, Gestamp, ADIF, the Spanish Ministry of Defense, Invest WindsorEssex, McMaster University, St. Clair College, the University of El Salvador, EAN University, and the Basque Government. Headquartered in Bilbao, Spain, the company also has offices in Toronto, Orlando, and Skövde, Sweden. Virtualware has been publicly listed on Euronext Paris since April 2023 under the ticker MLVIR.
Your Website URL: https://www.virtualwareco.com/news/htc-vive-viroo-new-enterprise-simulation-lab/
Exciting News: Tom Merrick to Chair the North America Colleges and Universities Committee!
Exciting News: Tom Merrick to Chair the North America Colleges and Universities Committee!
We are excited to announce the establishment of the North America Colleges and Universities (NA U&C) Committee, with Tom Merrick stepping forward to lead this important initiative. With the rapid adoption and growing interest in XR technologies in the higher education space, this committee will provide a dedicated forum for colleges and universities to collaborate, innovate, and thrive within a uniquely North American ecosystem.
Tom brings a wealth of experience and passion to this role. As a leader in outreach at the University of Miami, he has cultivated an XR ecosystem involving 15 universities in collaboration with Google. His vision aligns with the VR/AR Association, which he sees as the perfect host for these initiatives.
“This will demonstrate value to colleges and universities, and many will want to join!” Tom explained, highlighting the opportunity to create meaningful connections within the XR community.
While this new NA-specific group will foster regional collaboration, the importance of maintaining global connectivity through the existing global committee cannot be overstated. Together, these efforts will ensure the higher education XR ecosystem remains innovative and united.
On February 7th, the University of Miami will host their own XR event, where John Cunningham will have the honor of speaking. This event represents just one example of the growing momentum in XR within higher education.
We are thrilled to support Tom’s leadership and this important initiative. Please join us in celebrating this milestone and the exciting opportunities it will bring for the XR and higher education communities!
We’d love to hear your thoughts on how we can support innovation in XR and higher education!
New Feature: Improve VR learning with User Analytics
New Feature: Improve VR learning with User Analytics
With VRdirect's new user-based analytics feature, companies can track individual user interactions within VR projects, providing detailed insights and a deeper understanding of user engagement. This will significantly improve VR Learning & Training applications created with VRdirect.
Siemens is using VRdirect for EHS Learning.
User-based analytics focuses on individual user interactions within VR projects. Key features include:
- Individual and group insights: Generate custom links for individual users or groups to track specific interactions.
- Improved marketing data: Enables data tracking to analyze user interactions and preferences, allowing for more precise targeted campaigns and optimized marketing efforts.
- Enhanced learning and training: This feature is particularly beneficial in training and education scenarios, enabling companies to monitor training outcomes.
VR safety training at Siemens
VR safety training provides immersive, hands-on learning in a risk-free setting. Realistic scenarios in VR help to safely recognize hazards and reduce accidents at work.
Siemens uses VR training for scissor lifts to ensure that employees practice the most important safety measures and are thus prepared for real-life situations.
Read here why VR offers advantages for safety training!
Your One Stop Shop for All Things VR and 3D Printing
Welcome to The VR Superstore! A pioneering company at the forefront of the virtual reality (VR) revolution. The VR Superstore is your one-stop shop for all things virtual reality (VR), and 3D printing.
We carry a wide range of products, from headsets and controllers to software and accessories. Whether you are a VR novice or a seasoned pro, we have the devices needed to take your experience to the next level.
Joining the VRAR Association
The VR Superstore is a member of the VRARA (VR/AR Association) since 2024. We relied on the membership in the VRARA to expand significantly our network particularly in retail, enterprise, educative, and research sectors. By joining “the Association”, our company intends to boost its networks in various XR-related fields. By doing so, we could leverage our business model further and reach new market niches.
Our Vision and Values
At The VR Superstore, we are driven by a vision to revolutionize how people experience technology. Our core values of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction guide every aspect of our business. We believe in pushing boundaries and empowering individuals and businesses to unleash their creativity.
Explore Our Offers
Visit our marketplace and discover a diverse range of products tailored to meet your VR and 3D printing needs. From innovative headsets and controllers to top-notch software and accessories, we have everything to elevate your virtual experience.
Unlocking Business Solutions
Our Business Center caters to enterprises and organizations, offering tailored solutions to integrate VR technology seamlessly into their operations. From training simulations to immersive presentations, we help businesses unlock new levels of efficiency and engagement.
Our account managers would be happy to help find the best tailored VR solutions for your company's requirements. Contact us on business inquiries at sales@thevrsuperstore.com
Empowering Education
The Educational Center at The VR Superstore is committed to nurturing young minds and fostering a passion for technology. Our company is at the heart of this transformation, working together with our partners to equip educational institutions with the most advanced VR solutions on the market. Our commitment is to deliver a product that not only meets but exceeds the expectations and requirements of these institutions, providing an unparalleled immersive learning experience.
By choosing our VR solutions, educational institutions are not only investing in technology but are also embracing a new horizon of learning possibilities. They are setting themselves apart as pioneers in adopting innovative methods that will prepare their students for the future. In essence, our VR solutions are more than just a product; they are a gateway to a new dimension of learning.
The Artistic Development Studio: A Hub for Creative Innovation
Imagine a place where the boundaries of reality and imagination blur, where content creators converge to craft the unthinkable. That is the vision behind our Artistic Development Studio, an ultramodern virtual space designed to empower artists, developers, designers, and storytellers. From immersive VR experiences to interactive storytelling, the potential is limitless. At the VR Superstore, one will find the support and freedom to experiment and grow
Our studio will be more than just a platform; we envision creating a community-driven incubator for innovation in VR and 3D.
Join Our Community
Subscribe to our newsletter for insightful blogs and stay up to date with the latest industry trends.
We invite everyone to embark on a journey of innovation and discovery with The VR Superstore. Welcome to the future of technology. Welcome to The VR Superstore!
Follow us on: X (formely Twitter), Instagram, and on Facebook.
Contact us
Visit our website at www.thevrsuperstore.com to learn more about our services and how we are helping businesses make the most of this exciting and recent technology.
Send us an email at sales@thevrsuperstore.com for business inquires or support@thevrsuperstore.com for customer support.
Sony Electronics Introduces mocopi Pro Kit: Redefining Full-Body Motion Capture for Professionals
On behalf of Sony, we are thrilled to announce the launch of the mocopi Pro Kit, a professional-grade motion capture solution designed to transform the creative workflows of animators, VR developers, and live-streaming professionals. Building on the success of Sony’s motion capture innovations, the mocopi Pro Kit introduces unmatched precision and versatility, elevating the standards of full-body motion tracking.
Key enhancements of the mocopi Pro Kit include:
Professional Mode with a 12-Sensor System: Advanced motion fidelity, ideal for capturing nuanced movements across a wide range of applications.
Direct PC Connectivity: Seamless workflow integration with the Sensor Data Receiver, providing efficient real-time data transfer.
Camera Data Integration for Enhanced Accuracy: Combines external camera inputs with sensor data for superior tracking precision.
XYN Motion Studio App: Dual-functionality app featuring Motion Capture and Motion Editor modes for streamlined real-time and post-production workflows.
Broad Compatibility: Support for popular platforms such as Unreal Engine, Maya, and VRChat.
In addition, the mocopi Pro Kit is powered by Sony’s XYN XR ecosystem, ensuring creators have access to a robust suite of tools for capturing, refining, and exporting motion data with industry-standard file formats like BVH and FBX.
Please find all the details at the 'Read more' link below, which also provides the press release in Microsoft Word format, and additional media assets.
We appreciate your interest in mocopi Pro and are here to support any questions or media requests.
Thomas Merrick appointed Co-Chair for VRARA Universities & Colleges Committee
We are thrilled to have Thomas Merrick help lead our community by hosting online sessions for the Universities & Colleges Committee.
Thomas is a visionary educator and technology pioneer with a passion for transforming learning through immersive experiences. Holding a BS in Information Engineering from Cornell and an MA in Independent School Leadership from Columbia, he has over 25 years of experience in education as a Math Director, School Administrator, and technologist.
At Stanford University’s Distinguished Career Institute, Tom discovered the potential of Virtual Reality to revolutionize education. He taught VR courses at Stanford’s Virtual Human Interaction Lab and later continued with Stanford Continuing Education. Now at the University of Miami, he serves as Senior Project Manager of XR Initiatives and adjunct lecturer, spearheading projects like UMverse, a groundbreaking virtual reality education platform, and Miami XR 2025 Conference.
Thomas’s innovative work empowers students and faculty to harness XR technologies for creative, interdisciplinary learning, solidifying his role in shaping the future of education.
“I’m incredibly excited to take on the role of Co-Chair as it represents a unique opportunity to foster collaboration and innovation in education through immersive technologies. We have a chance to create a dynamic forum where educators, researchers, and technologists can come together to share ideas, showcase projects, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in education utilizing AI and XR — a collaborative ecosystem that redefines how students experience and interact with the world.
”
MADRID IS IMMERSIVE 2024
MADRID IS IMMERSIVE 2024
The Santoña Palace in Madrid, Hosts the "Immersive Christmas" Event
The Santoña Palace, headquarters of the Madrid Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Services, served as the venue for “Immersive Christmas,” an event blending technology, tradition, and opportunities for Madrid's commerce sector.
Organized by the Chamber’s TIC Business Portal in collaboration with Alvearium, and with support from the Madrid City Council, and special collaboration of VRARA Madrid Chapter, “Immersive Christmas” aimed to drive the digital transformation of Madrid’s commercial sector while showcasing the impact of technology on the region’s economic development. This initiative positions the Madrid Chamber of Commerce as a leader in technological innovation within the region.
Extended Reality (XR), which integrates virtual, augmented, and mixed realities, is transforming not only how we interact with the world but also how we work and grow. By 2030, this technology is projected to generate a global economic impact exceeding €1.5 trillion, with commerce, education, and tourism at the forefront of its adoption. Through events like this, Madrid strengthens its status as a hub of technological innovation in Europe.
The event featured prominent figures, including Ángel Niño, Madrid City Council’s Delegate for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Elsa Salvadores, Deputy Managing Director of the Madrid Chamber of Commerce. It offered a creative and technological perspective for Madrid’s retail and hospitality sectors.
During her speech, Elsa Salvadores emphasized, “At the Madrid Chamber of Commerce, we understand that technological innovation is more than a trend—it’s a strategic necessity for the sustainable growth of our businesses and the development of our economy.” She also highlighted “Madrid’s ability to lead in technological innovation and creativity, solidifying its role as a European benchmark.”
The program included a roundtable with XR experts titled “How Extended Reality is Transforming the Local and Global Economy”, focusing on its impact on commerce and tourism in Madrid. Panelists included Carlos J. Ochoa Fernández (One Digital Consulting-President of VRARA Madrid). Additionally, the Alvearium (VRARA Member) project was introduced, showcasing its contributions to the digitalization of key sectors such as commerce, tourism, socialization, and entertainment in Madrid.
The event was attended by over 100 experts and professionals from the ICT sector, who concluded with an immersive tour of the Santoña Palace for attendees, including the visit to the VRARA Madrid experience, that was presented with a booth, where ONE Digital Consulting showcased the internationally Awarded “Vivaldi 3.0” experience. Dozens of attendees participated in the experience, achieving an extraordinary level of acceptance and positive feedback
TIC Business Portal
Through its TIC Business Portal, the Madrid Chamber of Commerce has made digital transformation a central priority. Annually, it supports thousands of Madrid-based companies in their digitalization journey, connecting them with cutting-edge technological solutions and helping them become more competitive in an increasingly demanding global market.
Hyperreal Winter Wonderland Memories
The new update to the Immersion Spatial Experiences app on Apple Vision Pro now lets you create a 3D winter-themed memory using gaussian splatting. Scan yourself, family member or friend with the Scaniverse app (on iOS or Android). Import the scan to the Immersion app on Apple Vision Pro to merge with the included scene to create a fully 3D, photorealistic winter memory. The app lets you reposition, scale and orient the imported scan allowing you to create a holiday-themed hyperreal, volumetric still capture. Export your newly created masterpiece and share it with the rest of the world as a gaussian splat PLY file.
The update also brings a new snowball shooting mini-game that turns your living room into a snowy, winter wonderland. Shoot snowballs at the mischievous snowman, Snowball Sam, to earn as many points as you can before the clock runs out.
These new experiences join the already existing content from a variety of categories from aviation to lifestyle available in the app. Download the free Apple Vision Pro app today and experience the power of immersion possible on the Apple Vision Pro: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/immersion-spatial-experiences/id6701992961
XRT Completes Global Deployment of ACV Driver Training System for the U.S. Marine Corps
ORLANDO, Fla. – November 16, 2024 – XR Training (XRT) has successfully completed the worldwide fielding of 81 innovative Amphibious Combat Vehicle Driver Training System (ACV-DTS) simulators for the U.S. Marine Corps.
A Milestone Achievement
Following the initial announcement of the production award in April 2024, this milestone marks a significant achievement for XRT, as well as the defense training industry as a whole, demonstrating the viability and necessity of rapid prototyping and rapid development methodologies to address the fast-changing needs of modern military training programs.
From prototype contract to full deployment in 18 months, this accelerated timeline was made possible through an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA). Collaborating closely with USMC leadership, XRT developed a working prototype in 107 days (3.5 months), secured the production contract within one year from concept, then produced and fielded the systems across six months.
The success of this acquisition model comes at a vital time, aligning with many of the military’s force development initiatives, including the recent USMC 39th Commandant’s Planning Guidance, which stresses the importance of rapid development, experimentation and fielding of prototypes.
Seamless, Worldwide Fielding and Comprehensive Operator Training
The Wave Warrior ACV-DTS, developed by XRT in collaboration with small business partners Talon Simulations, Theory Studios, and Enludio, is a portable XR-based training platform with 2DOF motion that realistically simulates complex ACV driving scenarios across land, surf zone and sea.
During fielding, XRT coordinated teams globally to install these simulators and provide thorough training to USMC instructors, assuring readiness for immediate use. With this complete, the Wave Warrior DTS is now deployed at Marine Corps locations worldwide and has been integrated into the ACV training curriculum, equipping drivers to safely navigate the challenges of real-world scenarios with improved confidence and skill.
Ongoing Support and Data-Driven System Enhancements
Over the next two years, XRT and its partners will continue providing maintenance, data capture, and engagement tracking for the simulators, enabling analysis of usage and effectiveness over time. The feedback and data gathered will contribute to ongoing software enhancements, “future-proofing” the system while maintaining responsiveness to evolving training objectives. More importantly, this ongoing support model keeps ACV operators equipped with the latest training technology to stay mission-ready.
“We are honored to continue supporting the U.S. Marine Corps in their pursuit of offering top caliber training for their Warfighters. As we advance into the next phase of the Wave Warrior ACV-DTS program, we will continue pushing the boundaries of what XR-based training can help them achieve for mission-critical readiness now and in the future,” said Neil Levin, CEO of XR Training (XRT).
The Wave Warrior ACV-DTS deployment underscores the Marine Corps’ commitment to innovation, small business partnerships, and a software-driven training approach, leveraging the OTA framework to rapidly deploy cutting-edge training technologies.
A Future-Ready Training Platform for Military Vehicle Operators
Inspired by the success and swift adoption of the Wave Warrior ACV-DTS, XRT has developed a new reconfigurable immersive training platform - the XR-VDT. This ground-breaking platform builds on industry best practices and in-depth learnings to better address the wide-ranging, complex needs of modern military vehicle training programs. It employs Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) standards and state-of-the-art XR technology to create a flexible, cost-effective system that can be adapted for diverse vehicles and scenarios.
The launch of XR-VDT reflects XRT’s continuing commitment to deliver high-quality, modular training systems that keep pace with evolving defense strategies, fortifying combat readiness for both operators and maintainers of next-generation tactical vehicles.
We just announced the VRARA "Where XR and AI Meet Reality" National Roadshow 202
We just announced the VRARA "Where XR and AI Meet Reality" National Roadshow 2025 🎉
This FREE 12-15 city conference series is your chance to explore how XR and AI are revolutionizing the public sector. Designed specifically for government agencies and organizations, these events will feature hands-on demos and connect you with leading industry solutions tailored for federal, state, and local agencies.
Proudly sponsored by Booz Allen Hamilton, HTC VIVE, Hadean, Virtualware, and VRARA members, the roadshow kicks off in 2025 in cities like:
📍 Washington, DC
📍 Atlanta
📍 Detroit
📍 San Francisco
📍 Orlando
📍 Honolulu
...and more!
Whether you want to host, present, or demo your government-ready tech, we’d love to hear from you. Email john@thevrara.com to get involved!
Let’s bring XR and AI to the forefront of innovation in the public sector! 🚀
XPANCEO and Konica Minolta Have Created the World's First System for Testing AR Contact Lenses
On December 12, XPANCEO, a deep tech company that is developing the next generation of computing via smart contact lenses with XR vision, health monitoring, content surfing features, and Konica Minolta Sensing Europe will announce the world’s first system for testing augmented reality (AR) smart contact lenses that redefines benchmarks for XR wearables, in a market projectedto reach an impressive $1,913.7 billion by 2032.
This collaboration addresses a long-standing industry challenge – the lack of reliable tools for evaluating complex near-eye displays, such as those used in VR/AR/MR headsets. After an announcement of a successful proof of concept earlier this year, the system now simulates actual human eye characteristics in testing – something existing systems can't do. Its unique front-aperture design and innovative lens geometry enable precise measurement of how users will experience AR visuals in real-world conditions.
Are you interested in seeing the press release with full details under the December 12 embargo date? I’ll be glad to arrange a call with XPANCEO’s co-founder Dr. Valentyn S. Volkov, a scientist with an h-index of 42 and over 9100 citations in leading international publications.
