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Tess McKinney appointed as co-chair for Healthcare Committee

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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!

Introducing the Corporate Innovation Team Membership: Empowering Large Enterprises to Harness XR Technologies

The VR/AR Association is pleased to announce that we have created a new membership category called the Corporate Innovation Team membership which is designed for large corporations with revenues greater than $50M that have an innovation team that is working on XR initiatives and want to participate as members of the VR/AR Association.  This membership category is limited to 10 named individuals within the corporation.

We are entering the next phase of adoption of XR in the enterprise segment and large corporations are looking for ways to leverage XR technologies to provide a competitive differentiation and to improve operations, train staff and reduce costs.  The VRARA is a powerful community and ecosystem to leverage to connect with the experts and find the right solutions for your business.  

The benefits of this membership is that the team members get full access to all of the benefits of the VRARA which includes press releases t0 our 60k+ subscribers, access to exclusive events and networking sessions and the ability to participate in research projects, lead committees and chapters.  

Who is eligible: Corporations with annual revenues in excess of $50M who have a team or group that are focused on identifying technologies to use within the corporation, referred to as end users. 

This membership category is not open to technology companies that market VR/AR solutions development studios or systems integrators and is subject to the review and approval of the VRARA.  

Learn more about our membership benefits, and please contact us at info@thevrara.com for more information. 


VRARA Member Sony at AWE 2024: Spatial Reality Display Adds 3D DAM / XR Case Study with UC San Diego / Spatial Content Creation System on Display

As AWE USA 2024 gets underway, Sony is announcing new integrations, showcasing new solutions, and sharing a customer use case for our XR portfolio of products. 

 

 

Learn more about Sony’s Spatial Reality Displays and mocopi here: https://pro.sony/ue_US/products/spatial-reality-displays/srd-mocopi or visit us in booths 708, 710, and 712 at AWE Expo!  To all attending, have a great show and we hope to see you there.

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VRARA Enterprise White Paper 2024: Benefits and Best Practices for XR Employee Onboarding (download)

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Our Enterprise Committee has produced this invaluable publication!

Make sure you join our annual Enterprise Summit: Best in XR, Digital Twin, AI

XR technology can be applied to various industries, sectors, and scenarios, such as automotive, energy, ESG, virtual offices, immersive training, retail, and corporate marketing. Some examples of XR applications include VR engineering or product design studios, AR safety apps, digital twin systems for manufacturing, virtual flagship automotive dealerships, virtual de-escalation training or other soft skills training, and AR retail and fashion experiences.

To provide a great user experience for the onboarding process with XR applications, it is essential to ensure user-centric design, interactivity, accessibility, technical performance, security and privacy, continuous learning improvement, and skill building. These considerations can help users effectively learn and interact with the XR environment, thus improving onboarding outcomes.

There are many companies that provide XR onboarding products and services, such as Microsoft, Unity, Immerse, VRdirect, many others. These companies aim to enable organizations to effectively integrate immersive technologies into their business and onboarding processes. Thus, they have each made significant capital investments towards that end.

XR onboarding metrics are indicators that measure the effectiveness, efficiency, and user satisfaction of the onboarding process for XR applications. Some of the metrics include completion rate, time to completion, drop-off points, user satisfaction, retention rate, error rate, standard engagement metrics, conversion rate, feedback analysis, performance metrics, behavioral changes, support requests, learning curve, post-onboarding performance, and contribution to improving outcomes. Each of these must have a well-developed baseline measurement for any meaningful data to be collected, resulting in an auditable Return on Investment (ROI) report generation.

Effective XR onboarding is essential for improving business processes and outcomes, as well as increasing user/new hire productivity, proficiency, satisfaction, and engagement, so the organization is better positioned to meaningfully improve internal operations, perform for customers, and advance other new business opportunities. For example, Bank of America reported 100% of learners performing intended on-the-job behavior after XR training, highlighting the effectiveness of immersive experiences.

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

Immersive Training Revolution: Unveiling Cutting-Edge MR Application Expertise

Travancore Analytics has demonstrated its unparalleled expertise in developing MR applications, offering transformative solutions across various industry domains. Through our innovative approach, we empower organizations to embrace immersive training methodologies, enhancing knowledge retention, skill acquisition, and overall performance. The benefits of training through MR applications are manifold: from enhanced engagement and retention rates to cost-effective scalability and accessibility. Learners experience hands-on, experiential learning in a risk-free environment, accelerating their proficiency and confidence. With Travancore Analytics at the helm, businesses can stay ahead of the curve, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to shape the future of training and skill development across industries.

In the showcased video, Travancore Analytics shows its prowess in developing cutting-edge Mixed Reality (MR) applications tailored for the healthcare sector and beyond. The video unveils an immersive training experience where viewers delve into a virtual skeleton model meticulously designed for in-depth anatomical study. What sets this demonstration apart is its interactive functionality, allowing multiple individuals equipped with MR glasses to seamlessly join the virtual environment. As one participant navigates through the skeletal structure, removing and explaining various parts, others observe and engage in real-time, fostering collaborative learning. This dynamic platform transcends geographical boundaries, enabling participants from diverse locations to interact, learn, and communicate effectively, thus revolutionizing the landscape of training in healthcare and beyond.

Video link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d_Zh6FxP7M7mPpIjOVXoiLOVMFP5V5U9/view?usp=sharing

For more details: https://www.travancoreanalytics.com/services/ar-vr-development/

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

Follow us on Linkedin for latest updates: 

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

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VRARA NYC Chapter Welcomes New Advisors

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VRARA NYC Chapter President Cindy Mallory is excited to announce the addition of Andrew Stapp and Lucky Lance Gobindram to the VRARA NYC Advisory board. Their expertise will further allow the NYC community to flourish in a community that values and nurtures creativity and ambition.

Lucky Lance K. Gobindram is the co-founder and General Manager at CXR.Agency, an award-winning full-cycle software development and IT consulting company renowned for delivering groundbreaking experiences across web, mobile, XR, AI, and blockchain technologies. With over 15 years of experience in the digital industry, Lucky has honed his passion for designing and building comprehensive solutions that seamlessly blend effective design with the latest technologies. 

As a results-oriented and experienced technology executive, Lucky specializes in connecting audiences to products, services, and people through strategic innovation. His proven track record includes successfully deploying emerging technologies into commercial successes across diverse platforms, industries, and markets. A recognized futurist and lecturer, Lucky is frequently invited to speak on topics such as the change in social capital, practical applications of XR, and the next app gold rush. His mission is to transform brands with revolutionary digital experiences, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the digital realm.



 Andrew Stapp is an extended reality software engineer and educator in NYU's Immersive Technology Lab. He works at the forefront of interactive media, blending art, design, and computer science to create immersive XR solutions for all industries. He has extensive experience working hand in hand with both public and private sectors, educating and training all levels in XR technology. Recently, Andrew served as a Fulbright Specialist in Tunisia, where he taught XR, further expanding his impact and commitment to advancing immersive technologies globally.  

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Becoming the first black woman to get a Masters Degree in Extended Reality Technologies from Arizona State University

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VRARA Member Tochi Nwosu made history as the first Black woman to earn a Master's degree in Extended Reality Technologies from Arizona State University's MIX Center.

Extended Reality (XR) includes Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). Tochi graduated in 2024 from the first class of the MIX Center at ASU. Her achievement is significant for underrepresented groups in the XR industry, emphasizing the importance of diversity in shaping the future of this innovative technology. An inclusive XR industry encourages a wider range of ideas and experiences, resulting in applications that cater to a broader audience and address a greater variety of challenges.

Congratulations Tochi!

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Recap of our enterprise session with Duke Energy XR

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Damon Shackelford hosted our online session with 20+ executives to learn from Duke Energy’s XR leader!

The conversation started with sharing backgrounds, focusing on experiences in the VR and utility space, with Jenny highlighting her background in nuclear energy and digital transformation. The discussion progressed to transitioning Duke Energy to an external profit center, developing virtual reality training for electrical operators, challenges in selling VR services, and exploring XR opportunities. Jenny expressed concerns about financial challenges, cybersecurity training, and lack of engagement, leading to plans for implementing design sprints for gamification. The team discussed implementing gamified simulation training, scenario planning, AI-powered characters in training, AR applications for customer delivery operations, and the implementation of a virtual training center metaverse. Jenny advocated for a centralized platform for all training materials within the metaverse. The meeting concluded after covering various topics related to VR training and XR opportunities at Duke Energy.

Topics & Highlights

2. Transition to Profit Center

  • next steps involve finalizing contracts, legal processes, and sourcing documentation to secure funding for hiring a business development person to handle sales.

3. Development of Virtual Reality Training for Electrical Operators

  • The decision to develop virtual reality training to reduce safety risks, increase engagement, and improve qualification rates for electrical and gas technicians was made, leading to significant industry firsts.

  • Approval obtained to sell virtual crew products built with non-regulated dollars, with plans to leverage marketing budget for sales in 2022.

4. Challenges in Selling VR Training Services

  • reasons behind making the VR training service viable for sale, including successful qualifications, shareholder expectations, and the company's first experience with Software as a Sales.

  • Various challenges discussed include approval difficulties due to fairness concerns, misconceptions about VR as games, and overcoming naysayers through successful demonstrations and positive feedback.

5. Virtual Training Environment Development

  • process of creating a custom virtual training environment using a simulation tool similar to SimCity, where trainers can build and customize their own substations for training and qualification purposes.

6. XR Opportunities at Duke Energy

  • concerns about financial challenges, cybersecurity training effectiveness, and lack of engagement in training programs, leading to the decision to implement design sprints for gamification.

  • plans to teach her team about design sprints for gamification in cybersecurity training, aiming to enhance engagement and understanding among participants.

7. Implementation of Gamified Simulation Training

  • challenges of securing funding upfront for the gamified simulation training despite potential cost savings of $10 million. Damon Shackelford and Steven F also express concerns about the difficulty in obtaining budget based on projected savings.

8. Scenario Planning and Visualization

  • explore the use of AI and deep learning to enhance the gamified simulation training, potentially making it more immersive and engaging.

  • interest in using AI to create a better business case and agrees to give it a try.

  • importance of exploring new business strategies and technologies, encouraging a mindset shift towards innovation and risk-taking.

9. AI-powered Characters in Training

  • The team is actively working on implementing AI-powered characters for training scenarios, focusing on creating avatars with specific job roles, incorporating PPE, and developing a virtual training center with a metaverse for multiplayer interactions.

10. Augmented Reality (AR) Applications

  • The team has successfully implemented an AR application for customer delivery operations using iPads, streamlining the approval process and reducing rework, with plans to explore more AR and VR applications.

11. Implementation of Virtual Training Center Metaverse

  • personal opinion on having all training materials in one application within a virtual training center metaverse

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Call for Speakers: VRARA Finland - Showcase Your Work!

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The Finnish Chapter of the VRARA is now looking for engaging and passionate speakers who are willing to share their work, insights, and experiences with fellow industry professionals and enthusiasts at our in-person networking socials and demo days.

We are seeking speakers who:

  • Have cutting-edge knowledge and expertise in VR/AR.

  • Have developed groundbreaking projects, tools, or methodologies in the field.

  • Can deliver an engaging and informative presentation

Perks of participating:

  • Showcase your work.

  • Network with fellow industry experts, business leaders, and VR/AR enthusiasts.

  • Receive recognition and build your professional reputation.

  • Obtain valuable feedback and spark new collaborations.

How to Apply:

To submit your interest or proposal, please contact Sam and May, at finland@thevrara.com.

Spaces are limited, and we encourage you to apply soon to secure your opportunity to contribute in the upcoming VRARA Finland chapter events. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please don't hesitate to contact Sam and May via email or LinkedIn.

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WEART introduces the new TouchDIVER Pro haptic glove: a new dimension for XR interactions

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June 11, 2024 – WEART, hardware and software haptic technology provider, has released today the second generation of the TouchDIVER haptic glove – the TouchDIVER Pro glove. Developed from extensive customer feedback and market analysis carried out since 2021, the TouchDIVER Pro glove is tailored for professionals in XR training, virtual prototyping, teleoperations, immersive marketing experiences seeking natural and realistic manipulation with virtual and digital objects. 

TouchDIVER Pro glove features a new design with six actuation points, including all five fingers and the palm, and current WEART’s unique multimodal haptic feedback, which provides lifelike force feedback, textures rendering and thermal cues. 

Key features of the TouchDIVER Pro include:

  • Multimodal haptic feedback: Three co-localized haptic feedback, which allow users to feel objects that are grasped or touched in XR, with a level of realism never reached before.

  • SDK: an intuitive SDK is included in the package, enabling a fast and efficient tactile augmentation of XR contents. It also includes an innovative hand-object interaction model ensuring realistic, consistent and reliable manipulation capabilities.

  • Full hand tracking: All fingers are tracked with precision of 0.6 degrees, featuring a combination of tracking sensors, thus enabling complex gestures and interactions.

  • Zero setup time: Easy to wear, no adapters, and hot swapping of the battery.

  • Easy deployment: The gloves can be paired with standalone headsets or work in PC-based setups, according to the user needs.

  • Low latency: Three connectivity modes - WiFi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and a tethered version - cater to various user needs and setups.

"TouchDIVER Pro represents the culmination of extensive collaboration with our customers and partners, driven by our shared commitment to enhance realism in XR manipulation” said Guido Gioioso, CEO and Co-Founder of WEART. “Our focus on authenticity ensures that every intangible interaction feels tangible, empowering users to engage with virtual environments as if they were real."

The gloves, available in pairs, are designed to work with all major headsets available, in accordance with WEART's dedication to making haptic technology more accessible and widespread. The current version of TouchDIVER has been embraced by various customers across task operations, safety training simulations, teleoperations, and immersive customer experiences within luxury, automotive and retail sectors. This adoption is mostly attributed to the high-speed resolution of the embedded haptic technology, the compact and lightweight design, and the easy integration into VR projects. 

TouchDIVER Pro gloves will be sold in pairs and will be available for pre-orders from June 11, 2024 at €3,900 on WEART’s website and through a global network of distributors. 

WEART will be showcasing TouchDIVER Pro glove during AWE USA at Booth 630, from June 18 – 20 in Long Beach, California. For more information, visit weart.it. 

Note: Images, company assets, interviews, demos, and additional information are available upon request at info@weart.it 

Immerse Yourself in the XR Future of Healthcare: A Summary of the BIO Conference Panel Discussion

As the founder and president of the VR/AR Association and CEO of The Immerse Group, I am thrilled to share insights from the impactful panel discussion on the future of Extended Reality (XR) in healthcare at the BIO Conference in San Diego on June 6, 2024. This event highlighted the transformative potential of XR technologies—Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR)—combined with AI and biosensing in revolutionizing healthcare.

Panel Highlights

The session, moderated by Gail Gannon, CEO of Ensante' and Director of the Neurotech Collider Lab at UC Berkeley, featured distinguished experts:

  • Walter Greenleaf, Neuroscientist and VR & Digital Health Expert from Stanford's Virtual Human Interaction Lab, emphasized the robust scientific foundation supporting XR's application in mental health treatment, addressing conditions like PTSD and anxiety disorders.

  • Julia Scott, CEO of Gambit Labs and Director of the Brain and Memory Care Lab at the University of Santa Clara, showcased how XR can enhance cognitive rehabilitation for patients with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions.

  • Mylea Charvat, CMO of Altoida, discussed the integration of XR in early diagnosis and prognosis, particularly in detecting neurological conditions through immersive assessments.

  • Mark Edwards, CEO of Viewmind, highlighted the use of XR in objective and dynamic clinical assessments, improving accuracy and patient outcomes.

Key Insights from the Discussion

The panel explored several critical topics, including the use of real-time brain activity monitoring with immersive technologies to derive objective data versus subjective data. This shift allows for more precise and personalized treatments, significantly enhancing patient care.

The presence of three neuroscientists on the panel underscored the importance of scientific rigor in developing XR applications for healthcare. These experts discussed how tech titans are now part of this ecosystem, driving innovation and expanding the reach of XR technologies.

Importance of Multi-Modality Data Inputs

One of the key points highlighted was the role of XR as the new user interface. Multi-modality data inputs, such as eye tracking and neuroimaging markers, are becoming increasingly important, allowing for highly personalized experiences and wellness solutions. Eye tracking, for example, can measure functional changes in the brain and analyze placebo effects, providing deeper insights into treatment responses for conditions like depression and attention deficit disorder.

Segmenting Patient Populations and Combination Therapy

Segmenting patient populations based on neuroimaging markers and other data inputs enables more targeted and effective treatments. The concept of "combination therapy," which integrates immersive technologies with traditional treatments, was discussed as a powerful approach to improving outcomes and reducing costs.

Live Demonstrations

Following the panel, attendees experienced live demonstrations of cutting-edge XR applications, demonstrating their real-world impact on patient care. These demos included:

  • Lincoln Nguyen, CEO of Karuna Labs, presented VR simulations for chronic pain treatment, which are FDA-registered and HIPAA-compliant.

  • Alex Azzi, CEO of XR Workout, showcased an AR fitness program that personalizes exercise routines for physical rehabilitation.

  • Veena Somareddy, CEO of Neurohabvr.com, demonstrated how VR environments are used in neurological rehabilitation to enhance patient engagement and recovery.

  • Andreas Forsland, CEO of Cognixion, provided a recorded demo accessible via QR code, showing how their technology aids in communication for patients with speech impairments.

Market Opportunity and Impact

The market for XR in healthcare is expanding rapidly, with projections estimating it will reach $10.82 billion by 2027. This growth is driven by the increasing adoption of XR technologies in clinical settings, offering solutions for mental health therapy, pain management, physical rehabilitation, and cognitive assessment. Companies like XRHealth, Psious, and OxfordVR are leading the charge with innovative applications that improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.

Importance of Collaboration in Higher Education and Corporate Wellness

Higher education institutions and hospitals play a crucial role in the development and integration of XR technologies. Universities like UC Berkeley, led by innovators such as Gail Gannon, are at the forefront of research and development in XR applications. By partnering with emerging tech companies, these institutions can accelerate the adoption of XR in healthcare, providing cutting-edge solutions for patient care and medical training.

Additionally, wellness managers at corporations should consider incorporating XR solutions into their mental and physical wellness programs. XR technologies can offer immersive experiences for stress reduction, mental health support, and physical fitness, significantly enhancing employee wellness. This integration can lead to healthier, more productive workplaces, ultimately benefiting both employees and employers.

The Importance of XR in Healthcare

XR technologies are not just futuristic tools; they are revolutionizing healthcare today. From enhancing patient engagement to personalizing treatment plans and improving clinical efficiencies, XR is redefining how we approach health and wellness. These technologies offer significant benefits in both mental and physical health, providing immersive experiences that can reduce anxiety, manage chronic pain, and support cognitive rehabilitation.

The Mission of the VR/AR Association

The VR/AR Association is dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation in the XR industry. Our mission is to advance the adoption of XR technologies across various sectors, with a strong focus on healthcare. We believe that vertical solutions like those presented in this panel are crucial in improving lives and transforming healthcare delivery.

In conclusion, the BIO Conference panel on XR in healthcare underscored the importance of these technologies in creating a more effective, efficient, and personalized healthcare system. As we continue to explore and develop XR applications, we are setting new standards in medical science and patient care. XR is not just the future; it is healthcare now.

Nathan Pettyjohn
Founder and President of the VR/AR Association
CEO of The Immerse Group

The New State of AR/VR survey is live now

The New State of AR/VR survey is live now!

We aim to assist the global community in understanding the essential requirements of AR and VR creators to elevate their creations to new heights.

By answering our survey questions, you have the power to influence the ecosystem and be eligible to win some fantastic prizes!

Here’s what's in store for you:

  • Brand-new virtual Goody Bag upon survey completion.

  • Premium prize draws every week.

  • Cash rewards if you spread the word. Join our referral program, share the survey and win up to $500 USD in cash.

  • Make an impact: Every participation counts! We will donate to the charity of your choice.


Don’t miss out on your chance to impact the world of AR/VR tools!


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VRARA Madrid Presents: "5 years from now-Unveiling the 5 key technologies shaping immersive tech industries"

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Guest post from VRARA Madrid Chapter President Carlos Ochoa:


I am genuinely excited to announce and share that "The Dream Team is Back in Town" and will participate in "The Immersive Planet Series," powered by @VRARA Madrid and directed and coordinated by Carlos J. Ochoa (president of VRARA Spain) at the premier innovation event, DES | Digital Enterprise Show 2024 .

As a Media Partner and members of the Advisory Board, VRARA Madrid plays a crucial role in driving digital transformation and business innovation in the fields of #ImmersiveTechnologies, #AI, and #SpatialComputing.

This year, we anticipate more than 17,000 professional attendees at the event, and for this reason, we have prepared a truly extraordinary and luxurious agenda.

I would like to welcome this exceptional group of experts and esteemed VRARA Members including Amy Peck, Elisabetta Rotolo, Jolanda Tromp, and David Moreno, among others. Together, we will offer unique experiences, innovative ideas, and technological solutions that are shaping the future of business and society.

I invite you to the "5 sessions" we have prepared, where most of the speakers are women leading the world of immersive technologies across various sectors. We will visualize the future in 5 years, explore trends in immersive entertainment, differential technologies in today's society, entrepreneurship, and use cases that help us advance towards a better and more equal society.

Get ready for "Total Immersion," where we will discover the innovative technologies poised to revolutionize future industries, guided by international leaders. Our expert panelists will provide high-value insights and experiences on the latest advancements driving innovation in virtual and augmented reality, spatial computing, digital twins, haptic feedback systems, artificial intelligence, and blockchain integration.

Don't miss this opportunity to get ahead and explore the future of immersive technology firsthand with industry visionaries.

Join us to explore how the most inspirational and experienced leaders in the sector and the VR/AR Association (VRARA) community, together with the industry drivers, are redefining the digital landscape!

Additionally, at our booth 1D412, with 40m2, you can participate in networking activities, interact with international speakers, present your projects, and enjoy the premiere of VIVALDI 3.0, The Immersive Universe of The Four Seasons, presented by ONE XR Studio, in collaboration with the Reina Sofia School of Music and musician Ara Malikian.


We have special 50 VIP Free passes and 100 Business Free passes for all VRARA Members.

For more information, please contact Carlos@thevrara.com.

Discounts, Industry Insights, Mixers, and more: VRARA Member Exclusives for AWE 2024!

VRARA is proud to partner with AWE USA 2024. VRARA members receive three opportunities to maximize their experience in the conference (additional detail for each below):

  1. 30% discount to general AWE tickets, email info@thevrara.com to obtain code.

  2. 50% discount to AWE Focus , which offers a curated experience designed specifically for executives, decision-makers, and thought leaders in the XR space.  (note: application process required); email info@thevrara.com to obtain code.

  3. CORAL: VRARA AWE Social Mixer: Presented jointly by the VRARA LA and Orange County chapters to provide VRARA members an unforgettable night of food, drinks, networking and most importantly, fun!

With your 30% discounted ticket to AWE USA 2024, you’ll have access to:

  •  500+ speakers in 15 tracks covering topics from Gaming & Entertainment to Healthcare, Web3, XR Enablement, Enterprise and many more

  •  300+ exhibitors showcasing their latest innovations with live demos

  •  Join the Start-up Pitch Competition

  •  Meet the XR Hall of Fame inductees in a ceremony recognising the pioneers who built the AR and VR industry

  •  Visit the XR Museum 

  •  Auggie Awards ceremony 

  •  Parties, activations and unlimited networking opportunities

With your 50% discount to AWE Focus, you will:

  • Network with Key Players: Connect with industry leaders, build valuable relationships, and identify potential partners.

  • Spark Big Ideas: Immerse yourself in cutting-edge technology discussions and discover new ways to leverage XR in your enterprise.

  • Shape the Future of XR: Gain insights from industry experts and collaborate on strategies to propel the XR revolution forward.

  • We're offering a special opportunity for VRARA members that are enterprise professionals to attend AWE Focus. These discounted tickets provide access to a sales-free environment dedicated to fostering collaboration, idea sharing, and networking.

Limited Availability - Apply Now!  Tickets for Enterprise attendees are limited and require an application process.  Solution providers, students, and non-end-users are not eligible.

CORAL: VRARA AWE Social Mixer: Reserve your ticket today!

 
 
 

XR's Enterprise Future with AWE Focus and VRARA Replay
- Gain insights from industry experts as they explore the latest trends and advancements in VR, AR, and the broader XR landscape.
- Discover the powerful collaboration between VRARA, the industry's leading non-profit association, and AWE, the world's largest and longest-running XR conference.
- Learn how this new relationship will foster collaboration and drive the XR industry forward.
- Get inspired to attend AWE Focus, the exclusive enterprise-driven event at AWE!



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See the preliminary agenda for our Best in XR, Digital Twin, AI (Enterprise Summit 2024). Speakers from Boeing, UPS, Lenovo, Amazon AWS, Eastman, others.

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We already have 1100+ people registered for our annual Enterprise Summit on XR, Digital Twin, and AI on July 24 and will have 30+ speakers from Boeing, UPS, Lenovo, Amazon AWS, Eastman, others. Below is our preliminary program:

Dan Cotting, Amazon AWS
Scaling Enterprise Spatial Experiences in the Cloud:​
Spatial experiences often rely on significant amounts of complex and large 3D data sets. Unfortunately, many enterprise IT organizations are not well-equipped to manage and distribute this data at scale, which limits overall business value. This session will explore how to incorporate a spatial data plane strategy into your organization and use cloud services to scale in an extensible, secure, and resilient manner across business teams. Learn how cloud technologies can streamline 3D data creation and ingestion (3D reconstruction, photogrammetry, NeRFs, etc), 3D data management (spatial data lakes), and 3D applications (cloud rendering, AI/ML, etc.)
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​Mark Gröb, UPS
Strategies for Immersive Tech Adoption in your Large Corporate Entity:​
Blunt, common-sense strategies for Large Enterprise looking to deploy / integrate XR for their Business. From common use-cases that are "no brainers", to how should you view risks in adopting this new "force multiplier" technology.
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​Cindy Mallory, ATS. Plus, Amazon, Morgan Stanley.
Frontier Technologies - The New Enterprise Paradigm:​
We will explore how advanced tools and systems create highly engaging and interactive experiences that blend possibilities across the physical and digital. Learn how these emerging technologies are being developed, deployed, and scaled for enterprise use, and discover their transformative potential across various sectors by providing new ways to visualize, interact with, and manipulate information.
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​Lucky Gobindram, CXR Agency. Plus, Boeing, others.
XR - The Next Frontier in Enterprise Innovation:​
Learn about the strategic implementation of XR in operations, training, and customer service, emphasizing the technology's role in enhancing decision-making, reducing errors, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
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​Jeremy Joseph, Bluedrop. Plus, i3 and others.
Digital Twins and XR in Aerospace - What are they and how do you use them:​
A panel diving into what an acceptable definition of Digital Twin is and how Digital Twins and XR can be used effectively in Aerospace. Common misconceptions, approached, and challenges.

Damon Shackelford, Eastman Chemical Company and Amy Peck
Enterprise XR Trend Spotting:​
Top 5 XR technology trends
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​Vi Kellersohn, Oberon Technologies
Leveraging VR to Enhance Workforce Training in Nuclear Facilities:​
*See how industry leaders are using immersive virtual experience to safely onboard and train workers.
*Hear how they are using the latest tools including Apple Vision Pro, HTC, Meta, 3DI and more.
*Learn about the innovative solutions to keep workers safe and more proficient in the field.
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​Carolina Salazar
VR Horizons - Advancing Human-Centric Technology:​
Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of virtual reality as we discuss how this technology is redefining the human experience and paving the way for a future centered around humanity.
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​Leslie Shannon, Nokia
XR + AI = Your New Enterprise Superpower:​
XR, Digital Twins, and AI have each already proved their individual worth in Enterprise settings – so what do you get when you combine them? Please join Nokia’s Head of Trend and Innovation Scouting for a look at the deep insights we’ll be able to access in the very near future, powered by the intersections of these disruptive technologies.

​Kevin ODonovan panel:

Digital Twins - From the ‘art of the possible’ to today's Industrial realityJoin us for an engaging panel discussion delving into the evolution of Digital Twin technology, from the visionary ‘art of the possible’ to the reality when it comes to the deployment of Digital Twins in Industry today. Industry experts will explore how Digital Twin tech is reshaping how we design, built, operate and maintain Industrial facilities , breaking down the silo’s within organizations, democratizing access to data, providing for a wide range of immersive experiences, while enabling all sorts of ‘what if’ scenario planning via simulation. And all at a scale we have never seen before...

More added soon!

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About our event

This 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, email kris@thevrara.com

Travancore Analytics: Elevating forklift training with virtual reality

Guest Post from VRARA Member Travancore Analytics.

Unity has featured one of our outstanding client success stories!

Discover the captivating case study of Travancore Analytics, showcasing their immersive training program for Virtual Forklift (formerly known as Forklift University). Harnessing Unity's robust features, Travancore Analytics has redefined training outcomes for heavy machinery operators, paving the way for a safer and more effective training experience.

This case study delves into the meticulous process behind the creation of this pioneering training program, shedding light on the collaboration between Virtual Forklift and Travancore Analytics, and the transformative impact it has had on training methodologies and outcomes.

Virtual Forklift's quest for a safer and more efficient training approach drove them to seek a solution that mitigated the inherent risks associated with traditional forklift training methods. The partnership with Travancore Analytics birthed a custom-built VR training application tailored precisely to Virtual Forklift's needs. Through collaborative efforts and leveraging Unity's advanced capabilities, Virtual Forklift and Travancore Analytics have set a new standard in heavy machinery training, paving the way for safer, more engaging, and highly effective training methodologies.

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