Immersive Insights 02/02/24

Sky Worlds Bids Farewell: The Rise and Fall of Sky's Groundbreaking VR App

Sky has announced the discontinuation of its innovative VR app, Sky Worlds, bringing an unexpected end to its promising blend of traditional broadcasting and immersive technology. Launched three years ago, the app allowed Meta Quest VR headset users to experience Premier League matches and Sky Original films in a virtual setting. Despite its groundbreaking approach, Sky Worlds faced challenges, including technical issues and limited content. While some users praised its immersive sports and cinematic experiences, Sky has decided to discontinue the app, redirecting users to traditional channels for news and highlights. The closure leaves the future of VR in mainstream media uncertain.

University of Sunderland's Trainee Teachers Embrace Virtual Reality for Classroom Readiness

Trainee teachers at the University of Sunderland are using virtual reality (VR) headsets to enhance their classroom preparedness. The School of Education introduced VR technology, allowing students to immerse themselves in realistic simulations aligned with the National Curriculum. The innovative approach aims to engage trainee teachers and provide hands-on experiences for challenging subjects. Lecturer Martin Holt, instrumental in introducing VR, notes its effectiveness in promoting high levels of engagement. Partner schools, including Yarm Primary School, have seen positive outcomes, with students enjoying science-based VR sessions. The initiative is seen as a valuable addition to teacher training, fostering interactive and immersive learning experiences.

UKRI Launches £6m Immersive Arts Project for VR and AR Exploration

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has unveiled a £6 million Immersive Arts project to support artists and organisations in exploring the creative possibilities of immersive technology, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). The three-year initiative, funded by the XRtists scheme, will offer grant funding, training, mentoring, specialist facilities, and support to over 200 participants. Led by the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), with hubs across the UK, the project aims to enhance skills and infrastructure in immersive technology, contributing to the growth of the creative industries by £50 billion by 2030.

Warwick Museum Unveils Immersive AR Experience Recreating the 1694 Great Fire

The Market Hall Museum in Warwick has introduced an augmented reality (AR) experience that utilises tablets and a 3D-printed map to transport visitors back to the 1694 Great Fire. The AR journey immerses participants in the events of the fire, which started opposite Lord Leycester hospital and reshaped the town. Animated stories based on historical documents provide a vivid account of the disaster, while the exhibit sheds light on the town's subsequent architectural changes, including widened streets and the prohibition of thatched and timber houses. The initiative was developed by AR specialists RiVR after capturing 6,000 drone photos of Warwick.

Former Department Store in Whitehaven Set to Transform into £4m Gaming Hub

The former Whittles building in Whitehaven, Cumbria, is poised for a £4 million transformation into a gaming hub. Funded by Sellafield Ltd , BT , and developer BEC, the four-floor space will house a gaming cafe, a digital recording studio, and a virtual reality (VR) area. Alongside gaming facilities, the hub will offer coding and gaming skills classes. Construction is scheduled to commence in the summer of the coming year, with the opening expected in the latter part of 2025. The project aims to provide innovative learning experiences and contribute to the regeneration of Whitehaven's town centre.

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