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Experience

How Spatial Audio Can Be Used In Marketing in 2022

The year 2020 nudged the world in the direction of all-things-online. Result? We have online schools, online music lessons. And, this is just the beginning. We now know that a large number of people are working from home and events running virtually. This hasn’t changed too much even with hybrid formats.

I don’t know about you, but I feel like having a bit more time in my tight schedule without all the travels. So you could say, people are now spending more time online with their headphones on. Maybe entertainment content or beloved Zoom calls that could be so much better.

This is where the attention lies – in the technology that delivers immersive spatial audio experience. So how can spatial audio be used for marketing projects? Find out in these case studies:

What is Spatial Audio?

Also known as binaural audio, the 3D sound is a recording technique that captures the sound to give a completely immersive experience with 3 dimensions and surroundings. Think of it as virtual reality for your ears. In a typical surround sound audio, you simply hear two dimensions of the sound (left-right, front-back). To be fair, there are multiple terms and they slightly have a different meaning depending on the content. Here, we want to focus on binaural stereo for online marketing. In the following, it is called 3d audio or spatial sound.

So, with 3D audio recording, you get to experience the entire environment in its three-dimensional ambience. You pick up on the little details such as the distance of sound from the microphone. The sound is recorded with two microphones placed across different positions relative to the subject. After that, engineers like myself use a digital process to manipulate the sounds. Result? You have the virtual illusion of the space; as though you’re actually there.

It’s of course not just about the technology, but the content. If you are curious about the spatial audio recording methods, read more here. Also, spatial audio is – and this also applies to everything else – not something to fix in the studio post-production.

The ideal approach is to focus on both production elements as I do with my services. Or even better: Think of projects that work with spatial audio from the get-go. This is where content is again the key to a successful spatial audio marketing project.

Why Spatial Audio works?

The Internet has always been a plays for disruptive formats and content. Here, billions of people have already been listening to spatial audio on headphones. But the content is fairly simple and hasn’t been thought through. So there already is a proof of concept that people really enjoy spatial audio. Additionally, there is so much more potential to make use of that for marketing. Let me show you what the state-of-the-art is on social media platforms such as YouTube is:

ASMR Videos on YouTube

The format is not new. It’s been in the making for decades now. But, the most prominent example using spatial audio is the ASMR videos popularized on YouTube. It’s short for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. You can think of it as goose bumps on your head. Sounds like a weird German saying that I made up, but it’s legit science:

When you hear a typical ASMR audio demo with the headset on, you get a tingling sensation generating at the base of your spine. The whole experience is chilling and relaxing at the same time. Common triggers for relaxation are tapping on objects, whispering, and water sounds. This is literally what so-called ASMRtist are producing. Basic sound recordings with a special microphone, such as a dummy head. I’m using a 3Dio omni-binaural pro that can even be used for VR and head-tracking.

ASMR videos use 3D binaural sounds to evoke relaxation and calmness. As of right now, there are 6+ million ASMR videos. Many of them have millions of views. It’s proof that consumers already have a familiarity and a taste for these immersive tracks. It, therefore, presents a novel opportunity for companies and marketers around the globe. The following video shows that the effect is nice, but there is so much more you could do with that:

8D Audio

OK, I’ve mentioned 8D music already multiple times. But since nobody talked about it at the Tonmeistertagung, I still have to drop it here. There is a dedicated article about how 8D audio works and why it’s so interesting for spatial audio.

Long story short on the one hand 8D technology (which it is often called but not even something I’d call tech, rather: gimmick) shows how good spatial audio can work on headphones or even earbuds.

On the other hand somebody just used stereo-music, ran it through a spatializer and made it circle around your head. Meaning there definitely are ways to make that better in a spatial audio marketing context.

Professional Use-Cases of Spatial Audio as a marketing tool

Luckily, there already are some projects out there that successfully show how it can be done right. Find videos or audio-only experiences that bring sound to the next level. Specifically produced for online websites and social media campaigns.

Sounds of Germany

This is probably the most relevant and finest example of integrating spatial audio for advertisement. If you visit the website, you will find a bunch of videos recorded all across Germany. OK enough self-praise, but the campaign made millions of people experience traveling in an innovative way. With the follow-up production “Colorful and creative Leipzig in 3D audio” we could win numerous laurels in international film festivals. So I can claim it’s legit work, yeah!

In times of pandemic where travel options are limited, these videos with binaural 3D audio soundtrack are the closest thing to reality. They let you explore the country’s uniqueness and diversity. It’s an elegant way to give people a taste of what they can expect when they land in Germany.

But as I like to say “don’t try to just recreate reality for immersive media”,

The approach was even extended. We collect sounds as an immersive tourist and interact with the points of interest. It was super interesting for me to see that the clients had to think about their sightseeing not only from the perspective of how they look. Suddenly we had to think how landmarks sound like. And since it was Beethoven’s 250th anniversary, I combined all the sounds into four of his most famous masterpieces.

This is just one concept that I was consulting from start to finish and worked really well. But you can guess there are endless marketing potentials, so let’s have a listen to other spatial audio marketing success.

Miley by Magnum

The Belgian ice cream brand Magnum joined hands with Miley Cyrus – the pop sensation. Together the collaboration created an exclusive show by Miley using the same spatial audio technology. It was a pre-recorded session in a studio that was then live-streamed to YouTube. With over 15 million subscribers the influencer marketing here was strong. So I was witness how the comments were exploding about the innovative use of spatial audio marketing.

Magnum is going to be probably the first brand to take this technology to brand new levels; having delivered an exclusive captivating track by the singer and songwriter. The 8D audio with classic stereo mix is a real winner here.

But wait? 8D audio? So the sound is literally just circling around your head? Nope, they were smart here! The producers took, what works for 3D audio and combined it a solid stereo-mix. This is why the mix didn’t fall apart which is the problem with most productions in Dolby Atmos Music.

The full concert is not online anymore but you can find re-uploads on YouTube or just get hyped with the trailer:

8D Audio Audi e-tron GT

I was involved in a similar production for Audi that I was recording for and consulting with. To highlight the new electronic sound of the Audi e-tron GT. Here, the two sound engineers who created the sound were in focus. So it really made sense to have the soundtrack follow their perspective and be special. That’s why spatial audio was used, or 8D sound experiences as it was called for marketing reasons.

Merkelphone / Virtual Barbershop?

Let’s close our eyes for one second because there is also plenty of possibilities to use spatial audio not only in combination with visuals. So here is an example of an audio-only experience. Sometimes the image can support the ears, but when the content allows it, there is another way to get immersed.

One production that made sense on many levels is “Merkelphone”. Remember, when the chancellor’s private phone got wiretapped by the NSA? Imagine the content got leaked and we can hear what extraordinary normal life Angela Merkel has. From state affairs to the Merkel family recipe for the plum cake, everything is on offer.

High-quality recordings and a spatial audio mix create an immersive listening experience that can’t be heard anywhere else. The format and content are unique and really are a genre on it’s own. It’s not supposed to be a studio cinema-soundtrack. To get the feeling of being there was rather the objective. And guess what: The app will also support head-tracking, so there is now explicit content out there or devices such as the Apple Airpods. More info is here.

Why Do Spatial Audio Campaigns Make Sense?

Let’s say you want to advertise some outdoor equipment, fishing roads, boats, tents, or something similar. Perhaps you want to advertise a place like a banquet hall or a palace. You would want to capture the feel, the ambiance and make it as realistic as possible. You would want to capture the audiovisuals of the breeze, maybe a bonfire, a river flowing, a tour of the hall, etc.

A spatial audio experience is the closest thing to reality because it just sounds natural. It is almost like being outdoors, under the stars sitting next to a bonfire. Combined with binaural beats or ASMR it can create an impact on potential customers like never before. The experience is innovative, inspiring, and highly immersive.

This shared closeness with reality and beyond is what makes spatial audio campaigns in marketing such a promising enterprise. It used to be a problem that not everybody owns a pair of headphones. Today: not an issue anymore and there is so much more to come with soundbars and smarspeakers.

What’s more, the technology is highly versatile. Meaning, you can incorporate it in everything that uses the internet.

Websites (Landingpages, Branded Sites)
Apps (iOS, Android, XR etc.)
Social Media (TikTok, 9Gag, LinkedIn)
Streaming-Services (Spotify, Podcasts) Stereo is available on every relevant social media platform. So we can “hack” that with 3D audio. And with platforms such as Apple Music, YouTube or Facebook / Meta, we can even make use of multichannel audio.

So now is the time to create new content that people have never heard before. Interested? Contact me know!

Quelle:

https://www.vrtonung.de/en/spatial-audio-marketing/

29. Dezember 2021 0 comment

Knowledge Research

Grab an Augmented Reality Headset and Meet the Future of Fan Experiences

Sports are failing to fully engage 99% of fans but AR is here to help.

I can see it now. It’s the fall of 2023, you and your friends virtually gather to watch the Carolina Panthers play division rival the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. You use your augmented reality headset to see your buddies from across the world digitally sitting in your living room - even Marco, who’s still wearing his Tom Brady Buccaneers jersey after Brady finally retired.

As your fellow Panthers fans are gently mocking Marco when Carolina takes the lead, you activate the AR panther to complete the joke. Suddenly Marco hears the heavy breathing of an enormous digital cat behind him, and jumps off the couch in time to have the panther roar in his face. You all laugh together, thousands of miles apart but virtually in the same space.

Now, we are back to the present day. This season, the Carolina Panthers debuted a fantastic augmented reality presentation. It was incredible to watch a 3D-animated panther leaping through the stadium, shredding the opponent’s flag and roaring in triumph over thousands of fans for the first time.

The animation aired live only on the big screens at Bank of America Stadium, but it holds even greater promise for the many, many more fans who want to immersively experience the game at home with their friends. It’s been viewed almost 6 million times on Twitter.

What we’re seeing here is the NFL creating unique digital experiences aimed primarily at home viewers - and spending significant amounts of money to do it. Why is this happening, and what does it say about the virtual future of fandom?

Why Consumers Are Demanding New Fan Experiences

The most obvious driver for the escalation of virtual fan experiences was the stadium closures forced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Teams, stadiums, and brands had to get creative about continuing to engage their audience when the in-person experience wasn’t available. And until COVID-19 is completely under control, many fans will not feel as comfortable attending games live.

However, the pandemic is not the only explanation for why consumers are demanding new digital fan experiences. The Famous Group, which developed the augmented reality panther, points out that only 1% of all NBA fans will ever attend an NBA game in person. The remaining 99% are targets for an immersive, interactive and social experience that offers something new and different than being in-stadium - all from the comfort of their own couch.

This idea is echoed by executives at global brands like Pepsi. Todd Kaplan, Pepsi’s Vice President of Marketing recently said, “Consumers are really striving for these more tactile, IRL experiences, but you want to be safe.”

Big brands are financially leaning into these virtual fan experiences. This makes sense when you look at the exceptional social engagement statistics - The Famous Group’s virtual panther saw 46 times the average engagement of other posts. As ad spending recovers to match higher consumer spending, we’re going to see more sophisticated and personalized digital experiences.

Imagining the Future of Augmented Reality Fan Experiences

In short, we have a perfect storm of digital opportunity even as stadiums are back at full attendance. We can now create incredible augmented reality events that fulfill consumer demand for safety and deliver truly immersive experiences, all backed by corporate marketing budgets. We have the power to create a new world, and bring people together in it for a virtual fan experience unlike any other.

Now, we’re back in 2023. The Panthers game is over and you and your extended family are chatting during the halftime show of the Minnesota Vikings game. You’ve got a surprise for your dad. After you convince him to put on an AR headset, he’s amazed to see Randy Moss sitting in the easy chair next to him.

Moss then greets him by name and asks if he’s enjoying the game. Knowing your dad was a lifetime fan, you used a Cameo-style app to book a live virtual appearance with the legendary receiver. He and Moss relive some of his greatest catches, and your dad makes a virtual memory that will last forever.

Later that night, your kids are begging you to give up the TV and augmented reality headset so they can play video games. As you smile and hand over the AR headset, you silently launch a virtual Hot Wheels interactive inside the room. Your children’s mouths are agape as they watch virtual cars race around them - then they realize they can reshape the track in real-time.

Just when it seems this racing experience couldn’t get any better, their friends from out-of-state log in and challenge your kids to a virtual race. The video games are forgotten as your kids enjoy playing with an augmented reality brand experience, which seems like a huge improvement over the loud, annoying TV ads you grew up with.

Bringing the Future of Fan Experiences to the Present

All of these scenes are plausible in the not-so-distant future. What’s more, we could easily see virtual fan experiences rival and even surpass those inside the stadium, leading in-person fans to want to watch a virtual replay of a game they attended live.

By pushing the possibilities of augmented reality fandom, we can enable virtual, interactive, and interpersonal fan experiences that bring people together in ways that are both cutting edge and timeless. Augmented reality is here to help.

Quelle:

Grab an Augmented Reality Headset and Meet the Future of Fan Experiences

10. Dezember 2021 0 comment

Knowledge Research

Yullbe Go – Das neue VR-Erlebnis aus dem Europa-Park zu Gast im Skyline Plaza Frankfurt

Taucht ein in neue virtuelle Welten! Das ist vom 13. Oktober 2021 bis zum 13. November 2021 möglich, wenn die neue, einzigartige VR-Experience YULLBE GO aus dem Hause Europa-Park im Skyline Plaza in Frankfurt gastieren. Ausgestattet mit VR-Brille und Controller könnt Ihr fünf verschiedene VR-Experiences erleben.

Sowohl die ECE als Center Manager des Skyline Plaza, als auch der Europa-Park blicken auf eine traditionsreiche Historie als erfolgreiche Familienunternehmen zurück und freuen sich über diese innovative Kooperation, die ein VR-Erlebnis der ganz besonderen Art nach Frankfurt bringt.

Im September 2020 feierte die ultimative Virtual Reality Neuheit YULLBE in Rust Premiere und zieht seither Gäste ab 12 Jahren in ihren Bann. Seit letztem Jahr ist zwischen der Wasserwelt Rulantica und dem 4-Sterne Superior Hotel Krønasår des Europa-Park eine absolute Weltneuheit zuhause: Auf 600 Quadatmetern können Einsteiger wie Profis mit YULLBE die faszinierende Welt der virtuellen Realität in verschiedensten Facetten erleben. Und dieses VR-Erlebnis gibt es jetzt auch in Frankfurt!

Dabei stehen im Skyline Plaza an der Messe diese fünf verschiedenen YULLBE GO Abenteuer (empfohlen ab 12 Jahren) zur Auswahl:

– „ARTiality“ hebt schon in Kürze die Gegenständlichkeit auf und lässt Euch Abstraktes hautnah erleben. Auf den Spuren berühmter Maler und ihrer Werkzyklen werdet Ihr selbst Teil der Kunst.

– Auf eine atemberaubende Reise ins Weltall entführt Euch „Moon to Mars“. Wer hat nicht schon einmal davon geträumt, als Astronaut einen einzigartigen Blick von oben auf die Erde zu werfen? Dabei können die Raumfahrer nicht nur den „Roten Planeten“ frei erkunden, sondern auch mit der Schwerkraft spielen und bahnbrechende Entdeckungen machen.

– Die Europa-Park Maskottchen Ed und Edda nehmen Euch in ihrer neuen VR-Experience „Ed und Edda – Die Jagd nach dem magischen Zepter“ mit auf eine magische Schnitzeljagd durch den Europa-Park.

– „Alpha Mods P.D“ In der futuristischen Stadt Ultraville, auf einem weit von der Erde entfernten Planeten, werdet Ihr Teil einer speziellen Polizeieinheit. Ausgestattet mit hochmodernen Autos jagt Ihr Kriminelle auf einer wilden Verfolgungsjagd mit den „Alpha Mods“ auf der zentralen Autobahn von Ultraville. Anschnallen, es wird rasant!

– Bei der neuen VR-Experience „Horror Nights – Traumatica“ tauchen Teilnehmer ab 18 Jahren in ein spektakuläres Szenario des Grauens ein. Dabei warten in einer Welt nach der Apokalypse die legendären Charaktere der mehrfach ausgezeichneten „Horror Nights – Traumatica“. Perfekt für einen VR-Ausflug zu Halloween, oder?

Der Vorverkauf für Tickets in der Skyline Plaza in Frankfurt startet ab sofort. Weitere Informationen gibt es unter www.yullbe.com/frankfurt

Quelle:

Foto: Europa Park

https://www.frankfurt-tipp.de/ffm-aktuell/s/ugc/yullbe-go-das-neue-vr-erlebnis-aus-dem-europa-park-zu-gast-im-skyline-plaza-frankfurt.html

14. Oktober 2021 0 comment

Examples

Wir schicken Sie aufs Matterhorn!

Das Matterhorn ist das Schweizer Wahrzeichen schlechthin. Und seit der Erstbesteigung 1865 gilt das Horu als Traumziel aller Berggänger. Das ist nun für fast alle möglich. Wir verlosen exklusive Tickets für eine virtuelle Tour.

Einmal das Matterhorn besteigen. Auf 4478 Meter über Meer das Glücksgefühl und die atemberaubende Aussicht geniessen. Für viele bleibt das ein Traum. Denn ohne gute Vorbereitung, ohne Training und Erfahrung kann man den weltberühmten Schweizer Berg nicht bezwingen. Wenigstens bisher. Denn nun gibt es doch für (fast) alle Matterhorn-Fans die Möglichkeit den Gipfel zu erobern.

Möglich ist das mit innovativer Technologie. Mit Red Bull The Edgewartet im Verkehrshaus Luzern das virtuelle Matterhorn auf mutige Bergsteigerinnen und Bergsteiger. Zusammen mit dem Red Bull Athleten Jérémie Heitz und dem ZERMATTERS-Bergführer Sam Anthamatten können die Besucher als virtuelles Klettererlebnis den Gipfel erklimmen.

Adrenalinrausch garantiert

Nach einem Briefing werden Gipfelstürmerinnen und Gipfelstürmer mit Klettergurt, VR-Brille und einem VR-Rucksack ausgerüstet und auf den Gipfel des Matterhorns geführt. Dank präzis ausgearbeiteter Virtual Reality, Fuss- und Handtracking und einer echten Kletterwand sowie 4D-Effekten wie Wind, Vibration und Textur geht das Erlebnis weit über ein gewöhnliches VR-Erlebnis hinaus.

Das alles hilft, die Lücke zwischen virtueller und realer Welt zu schliessen. Insofern ist die Besteigung auch nichts für schwache Nerven, denn der Adrenalinrausch ist garantiert.

Quelle:

https://www.blick.ch/life/reisen/ch/exklusive-ticket-verlosung-wir-schicken-sie-aufs-matterhorn-id16854007.html

8. Oktober 2021 0 comment

Examples

Best VR Fitness Games

VR fitness games offer something for everyone.

When it comes to exercise and fitness, there’s not a “one size fits all” experience. It’s important for individuals to assess their own needs, limitations, goals, medical issues, and interests. Some people enjoy a more solitary pursuit of fitness while others prefer classes or games or specific challenges such as mountain climbing.

Whatever you prefer, you’ll find an abundance of options in virtual reality and below are some of the top VR fitness experiences.

Beat Saber

The benefits of VR for fitness were quickly evident following the release of Beat Saber in May 2018 as VR enthusiasts around the globe began posting comments, stories, and images of weight loss, increased flexibility, and improved stamina. The rhythm game has continued to receive overwhelmingly positive reviews since its initial release in May 2018 and is widely hailed as one of the best VR fitness games on the market.

Choose downloadable content (DLC) from the store or simply play from a wide variety of songs and levels that come with the base game. Either way, you’ll definitely burn calories while slashing cubes to the beat of your musical selections. Beat Saber is compatible with all major VR headsets and is available through Steam or the Oculus Store for $29.99.

Supernatural

Supernatural is a fantastic experience that enables you to work out with a virtual fitness coach who provides encouragement as you complete workouts in beautiful immersive locations around the globe. The connected fitness app includes a variety of daily challenges, adjustable difficulty options, and a supportive community on social media to help you make the most of a home-based fitness routine.

Supernatural from Within Unlimited is free to download on the Oculus Store, but it does require a subscription for full benefits. When taking into account the cost of traditional gym memberships, travel time to and from a physical location, business hour limitations, etc., the less than $20/month subscription is quite reasonable. Supernatural was designed to be perfectly experienced with the standalone Oculus Quest 2 headset.

Pistol Whip

Pistol Whip is the game I play when I want to experience a great workout, relieve stress, and boost my self-esteem by becoming a total bada**. The rhythmic shooter from Cloudhead Games is positively one of my favorite VR fitness games that requires complete focus in order to eliminate enemy foes while dodging incoming bullets. As you advance in levels, you’ll most definitely have no problem burning calories while fending for your virtual life in a variety of immersive environments.

As a side note, Pistol Whip is one of the few games I play standing and it’s such an awesome experience, but I greatly appreciate the fact that it’s also playable as a seated experience. The game is compatible with all major VR headsets, including Playstation VR, and you can check it out through the Oculus Store or Steam for $24.99.

Holofit

For VR users with a rowing machine, exercise bike, or elliptical, Holofit can make your exercise routine more exciting as you row, cycle, or run through different immersive worlds. There’s a monthly subscription of less than $11 and that includes various workout modes, content updates, a virtual coach, and the Holofit companion app where you can check scores, track workouts, and compare your stats on the leaderboard.

You can sign up for a free trial on the Holodia website. Holofit works with all major standalone VR headsets including Oculus Quest 1 and 2 as well as HTC Vive Focus.

Ninja Legends

My middle son is 21 years old and serves in the Army National Guard. He’s one of the most athletic people I know and Ninja Legends is one of his favorite VR games. The game is a full-body workout that requires you to twist, turn, and squat with quick reactions if you want to take out waves of enemies that will attack you.

Coinflip Studios’ Ninja Legends is available for $19.99 on the Oculus Store and Steam. The game is available on all major platforms including Playstation VR ($24.99).

Synth Riders

A rhythm game from Kluge Interactive, Synth Riders originally launched on PC VR in 2018, arrived on Oculus Quest in 2019, and came to Playstation VR last month. The base game comes with over 50 tracks and there are more available through purchasable music packs.

If you enjoy music and rhythm, you can definitely dance your way to improved fitness with Synth Riders on the Oculus Store and Steam for $24.99.

OhShape

For those who want an additional challenge while you’re working out, Odders Lab’s OhShape might be a perfect fit for you. In case you’re not familiar with the game, that’s a pun!

I first played OhShape during Nice One Barcelona in Spain just prior to the game’s December 2019 release. Initially, I was interested in checking out the game for the purpose of being able to have an informed opinion, but once I started playing, I realized the game’s potential as a fantastic fitness game.

The concept of punching and dodging obstacles seems simple enough and of course, has been done before, but as the speed increases and you have to quickly determine which position to place your arms and legs to match the hole in a wall moving towards you at increasing speeds, it becomes more challenging mentally and physically.

OhShape is compatible with all major VR headsets including the Oculus Quest 2. It costs $19.99 on the Oculus Store and Steam.

In Death and In Death: Unchained

For a lower intensity workout that focuses on the arms and shoulders, In Death: Unchained from Superbright is a great option. This is one of the most visually attractive VR fitness games on the market and while it’s not necessarily good for cardio, you’ll definitely remain engaged. An archery game, you’ll need to dodge out of the way of enemy arrows and melee strikes while keeping your own bow at the ready.

I’ve replayed In Death on Oculus Rift, Rift S and Quest headsets many times since the original release from Sólfar Studios as a PC VR title. Following the port to Oculus Quest and new studio Superbright taking over the title, it has remained one of my favorites. In Death is available on all major VR platforms through Oculus Store and Steam for $29.99. In Death: Unchained is available for Oculus Quest 1 and 2 through the Oculus Store for $29.99.

Other Great VR Fitness Games

There are so many fantastic fitness games and experiences available in virtual reality so we can’t list them all, but here are a few others I want to mention.

Racket NX

Racket NX from One Hamsa basically brings racquetball into immersive reality. There are solo and multiplayer modes along with an active community. The game provides an intense workout in VR, has very positive reviews, works on all major VR headsets, and is available for $19.99 through the Oculus Store and Steam.

Ironlights

If you’re interested in complex melee combat, Ironlights from E. McNeill will appeal to you. The workout can be as intense as you want, depending on how competitive you become in your matches as you dodge blows, block attacks, and try to destroy the opponent. Ironlights is available on all major VR HMDs and available on the Oculus Store and Steam for $19.99.

Swords of Gargantua

Another great sword-action combat title that provides a good arm workout is Swords of Gargantua from Thirdverse. The game has a single-player mode as well as an online co-op mode with up to three other players. Swords of Gargantua is available through Steam or Oculus Store for $24.99.

Until you Fall

Schell Games’ Until You Fall is a roguelite VR game that also has swords, but there are variations on the type of slashing weapon. Each time you run through the game, you arm yourself and enter battle ready to strike down a variety of foes. Until You Fall is available for $24.99 on Steam and the Oculus Store.

VRWorkout

Michael Gschwandtner’s VRWorkout basically helps you convert any small area in your home to your own personal gym with your VR headset. Designed specifically to be a VR fitness app, you’ll run in place, jump, do push-ups and crunches, and more. VRWorkout is still in early access and is available on all major VR HMDs as a free-to-play game.

Echo Arena

Part of the Echo VR universe from Ready At Dawn, Echo Arena is another one of my personal favorites for VR fitness. It’s a free download from the Oculus Store and is an excellent fitness game for total body engagement and cardio. It’s also the most original and one of the best VR esports games on the market.

Gorilla Tag

This crazy little game from Another Axiom is one of the absolute best immersive games for an intense cardio workout. You’ll chase other gorillas using your arms and upper body through a roughly created forest playing tag or infection mode and I assure you that you’ll be sweaty and out of breath by the time you finish. Gorilla Tag is still an early access game available for free download through Oculus Store and Steam.

Conclusion

As you can see from the assortment of games above, there is plenty to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a free game or a subscription-based fitness app, single or multiplayer, a game with virtual weapons, or something that simply involves movement, you can choose your VR fitness experience and then develop a routine that enables you to achieve goals along your personal wellness journey.

Quelle:

Best VR Fitness Games

29. September 2021 0 comment

Research

BRINK Traveler – the Photogrammetry-Based AR and VR App Brings the World Close to You

The photogrammetry-based AR and VR app offers an incredibly detailed and immersive view of some of the most beautiful natural wonders.

Since spring 2020, people have been unable to travel to destinations they wished to explore. Due to restrictions still in force, many countries are still off-limits for US tourists. However, an innovative photogrammetry-based AR and VR app promises to bring the world closer to you. How close? With BRINK Traveler, launched on September 9, you will be able to get immersed in incredible natural landmarks from your living room.

What Is Photogrammetry?

According to ScienceDirect, photogrammetry is “a three-dimensional coordinate measuring technique that uses photographs.” Using the principle of triangulation (that is taking photographs from at least two different locations, or lines of sight), a team can create an accurate 3D representation of any object, no matter how complex or how large, from thousands of photographs capturing every angle and every detail. As the three-person team behind BRINK Travel put it, “This is the future of photography. A major shift in how we capture and share the world.”

To create the AR and VR app, BRINK XR combined aerial (drone) photography and land photographs using cameras on tripods. The result, as the developing team describes it, is “the difference between looking at a postcard, and feeling like you’re standing there in person.”

How Does the BRINK Traveler App Work?

The experience has two different app versions: an AR app for iOS and Android mobile devices and a VR app for VR headsets.

Here is what users are able to do in each app:

The AR App

Opening the AR version of BRINK Traveler is like opening a window onto a new world. By moving around their mobile device, users can explore the area. The app will respond to the real-life movements of the user, allowing them to look up and down, left and right.

The AR app is available for both Android and iOS users.

The VR App

In the immersive version of this photogrammetry-based app, the users will actually feel that they are at the location of their choice. They can explore it in-depth and interact with various parts of the respective landmark.

The VR version is available in the Oculus store (for both Quest and Rift), as well as on Steam.

Why a Photogrammetry-Based AR and VR App

“We’re a small team that loves the great outdoors and have been trying for years to share that passion through photography, time-lapses, and 360 photos,” said the team in a press release. “With BRINK Traveler, it finally feels like we’ve found something that does justice to the scale and feeling of being in these amazing places. Something no other medium has been able to really capture before now.”

The detailed 3D images of amazing natural landmarks available in the photogrammetry-based AR and VR app serve many useful purposes:

Conservation – for vulnerable and at-risk natural landmarks, the availability of an immersive 1:1 scale model is a great choice for reducing the actual number of tourists;
Education – teachers can make their geography lessons more exciting by taking virtual walks with the students in areas they are talking about;
Virtual travel – restrictions of any kind (including those related to the tourists’ available budgets) mean that many people cannot experience the beauty of amazing places on Earth. A photogrammetry-based AR/VR app solves this issue;
Healthcare – taking virtual travels or even using the AR app can provide a welcome distraction for patients in hospital or undergoing various treatments.

Key Features and Available Contents of the BRINK Traveler App

At the moment, users can explore the following locations with BRINK Traveler:

Horseshoe Bend
White Pocket
Mount Morrison
Mount Whitney
Alabama Hills
The Wave
Arches National Park
Death Valley National Park North & South
Slot Canyons
Crystal Crag
Háifoss Iceland.

BRINK Traveler – the Photogrammetry-Based AR and VR App Brings the World Close to You

The users will benefit from a virtual guide narrating and teaching interesting facts about each location. They can also enjoy 3 collectible points of interest in each location and the ability to take virtual photos and save them on their device and/or share them with friends.

Also, the AR and VR app allows the users to toggle between daytime and nighttime.

Quelle:

BRINK Traveler – the Photogrammetry-Based AR and VR App Brings the World Close to You

22. September 2021 0 comment

Examples

Zürcher Hochschule erwirbt VR Helikoptersimulator

Die Zürcher Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften (ZHAW) hat das Unternehmen VRM Schweiz, ein Anbieter professioneller Flugtrainings-Simulationslösungen, für eine Forschungspartnerschaft ausgewählt. In Folge dessen hat die Hochschule einen Virtual Reality (VR) Helikoptersimulator von VRM Schweiz erworben.

Die VRMotion AG entwickelt und produziert Virtual-Reality-Simulatoren für die Helikopterpilotenausbildung, die ein Ganzkörpereintauchen ermöglichen und dem Piloten das Gefühl geben, in einem echten Helikopter zu sitzen. Bereits im Mai konnten wir darüber berichten, dass die EASA das erste Flight Simulation Training Device (FSTD) der Schweizer Firma fürs Training für ihre Hubschrauber-Besatzungen zugelassen hat. Nun hat sich auch die ZHAW entschieden mit einem solchen Simulator zu arbeiten.

VR-Simulator für Forschung und Entwicklung

Am ZHAW Aviation Center wird das Team Flugmechanik und Flugsteuerungssysteme den Simulator für verschiedene Forschungs- und Entwicklungszwecke sowie in der Human Factor- und Human Machine Interface Forschung einsetzen und weiterentwickeln. Gemäss VRM Schweiz wird ein bewegungsbasierter Simulator benötigt, da ein Bewegungsfeedback für den Piloten notwendig ist, um die geforderte Realitätsnähe bei unterschiedlichen Flugbedingungen zu erreichen, wie zum Beispiel beim Schweben beim Anflug auf den Boden oder beim turbulenten Erholungstraining in der Allgemeinen Luftfahrt.

Pierluigi Capone, Teamleiter Flugmechanik und Flugsteuerungssysteme an der ZHAW, kommentiert die Partnerschaft: «Im Vergleich zu sperrigen und teuren Simulatoren mit grossen Kuppelbildschirmen ermöglicht VR kostengünstige Simulationen auf kleinem Raum. VR-Technologie ermöglicht auch Forschung in die Domänen menschlicher Faktoren und Mensch-Maschine-Schnittstellen.»

Mit der VRM Swiss-Lösung wird die Universität vor allem Kipprotor-Helikopter und erdnahe Flugzeuge simulieren. Dies erfordert ein hochauflösendes visuelles System und ein dynamisches Bewegungssystem, um den Piloten die erforderlichen visuellen Referenzen und Visualisierungen bereitzustellen. «Dies ist grundlegend für die Realität der Simulationserfahrung des Piloten», bemerkte Dr. Capone.

Professor Dr. Michael Guillaume, Leiter des Flugzentrums der ZHAW, kommentiert: «Das Flugzentrum verfügt über 10 Jahre Erfahrung in der Forschung mit Simulatoren und unterstützt die Entwicklung von Pilatus PC24 mit fest installierter, selbst entwickelter Forschungs- und Lernsimulation-Edge-Technologie des Produkts VRM Switzerland haben wir eine einzigartige Lösung gefunden, die innovative Forschung im Rahmen unserer Luftfahrt-Bachelor- und Master-Studiengänge ermöglicht.»

Quelle: neueschweizerzeitung / Youtube

20. September 2021 0 comment

Examples

WheelSim VR – Der Simulator für den Rolli

„WheelSim VR“ ist ein Simulator für E-Rollstühle. Mit ihm können Alltagssituationen sicher trainiert werden.

Wenn man nach einem Unfall oder der Reha zum ersten Mal mit dem E-Rollstuhl im Großstadtverkehr unterwegs ist, kann das schnell zu kritischen Situationen führen. „Als Erleichterung für die Einstiegsphase haben wir den E-Rollstuhl-Simulator WheelSim VR programmiert, aber auch als Hilfsmittel für Therapeuten, um die Steuerung an die individuellen Bedürfnisse anzupassen“, erklärt Michael Gstöttenbauer von der österreichischen Firma Lifetool, die „WheelSim VR“ gemeinsam mit der Netural GmbH, dem Kuratorium für Verkehrssicherheit (KFV), dem CCP-Studio, der Hoss Mobility GmbH und der Bandagist Heindl GmbH entwickelt hat. Wer seinen E-Rollstuhl etwa mittels eines Strohhalms steuern möchte, hat mit der App ein wertvolles Trainingsgerät zur Verfügung.

Viele verschiedene Fahrsituationen können im Rolli-Simulator geübt werden.Foto: Lifetoolhochgeladen von Mathias Kautzky

„WheelSim VR“ ermöglicht das Trainieren der Rollstuhlsteuerung in realistischen Situationen, etwa in einer Wohnung oder in einem Aufzug, auf Steigungen und Rampen oder auf der Straße mit anderen Verkehrsteilnehmern. „In der Straßenverkehrssimulation geht es vor allem um die Vermittlung und das Training der Verkehrsregeln, etwa das Queren einer Straße mit oder ohne Zebrastreifen“, so Gstöttenbauer. Dazu vermitteln Videos in leicht verständlicher Sprache Verhaltensweisen und Tipps. Um die Langzeitmotivation zu erhöhen, gibt es auch spielerische Elemente wie Rollstuhl-Zeitfahren auf unterschiedlichen Strecken oder Fahraufträge.

Einsatz im bz-Test

Im bz-Test fällt die einfache Menüführung von „WheelSim VR“ positiv auf. Sowohl Tastenbelegung als auch Maximalgeschwindigkeit können an das eigene Rollstuhlmodell angepasst werden. Zur Steuerung können eine Tastatur oder ein Controller verwendet werden. Mithilfe einer VR-Brille wird die Software zur Virtual-Reality-Simulation: „Das erlaubt eine noch bessere Interaktion mit der virtuellen Welt.“ Im Simulatormodus sind die einzelnen Fahrsituationen sehr detailliert ausgeführt und mit typischen Alltagshindernissen für Rollstuhlfahrer ausgestattet. So sind etwa enge Türstöcke, Tische mit Sesseln rundherum oder Veränderungen des Untergrunds genauso realitätsgetreu umgesetzt wie das Hineinfahren in einen wartenden Autobus.

Das Verhalten im Straßenverkehr kann man trainieren und dabei auch noch ziemlich viel Spaß haben.Foto: Lifetoolhochgeladen von Mathias Kautzky

In der Entwicklungsphase wurde „WheelSim VR“ von Rollstuhlfahrern und Therapeuten sehr gut angenommen. Einzig Teilnehmende mit Mehrfachbehinderung benötigen beim Aufsetzen und Anpassen der VR-Brille sowie beim Starten der App Unterstützung. Fazit: „Menschen jedes Alters können so die Steuerung ihres E-Rollstuhls so praxisnah wie möglich erlernen“, freut sich Klaus Robatsch vom KFV.

Zur Sache

„WheelSim VR“ ist für PC-Systeme verfügbar und kostet 99,99 Euro. Man kann auch eine kostenlose Probeversion herunterladen.
Infos: www.microsoft.com

Auch der Spaß kommt beim Rolli-Simulator nicht zu kurz.

Quelle:

https://www.meinbezirk.at/wien/c-lokales/der-simulator-fuer-den-rolli_a4790897

Foto: Auch der Spaß kommt beim Rolli-Simulator nicht zu kurz.Foto: Lifetoolhochgeladen von Mathias Kautzky

17. September 2021 0 comment

Examples

5 VR Apps for Exploring the World

Travel anywhere from your sofa with these amazing VR apps.

Since the spring of 2020, we have learned that all our vacation plans can be delayed indefinitely. Also, there are places that we can only dream of visiting. Now, thanks to VR apps for exploring the world, traveling to the most distant landmarks is possible for anyone. You only need a VR headset and the time to sit back and immerse yourself in new worlds.

Why Explore the World With VR Apps?

Many people are unable to reach all their bucket list destinations in real life. From financial constraints to specific family circumstances, their area of exploration is limited. This is why many organizations worked to develop various VR experiences for exploring the world.

They want to give everyone the chance to discover the natural beauty of our planet, as well as the many civilizations sharing it. We believe that everyone should try this experience at least once. It is a chance to realize how beautiful and diverse our planet is, and why we should do our best to preserve it for future generations.

So, here are some of the best VR apps and experiences for traveling around the world you should try:

1. Google Earth VR

Google Earth VR is one of the most detailed and comprehensive VR exploration experiences for anyone. All the areas of the globe mapped by Google cars are now available in the VR app. For cities, the experience is even more immersive as it is coupled with Street View images.

Just pick your destination, and within seconds you are there. From the pyramids of Egypt to the thriving street life in major capitals across the globe, or remote mountain areas, you can fulfill your entire bucket list in VR.

2. Everest VR

So many of us dream of reaching the highest peak and shout, like Jack in the movie Titanic: “I am the king of the world!” Unfortunately, climbing Mount Everest is reserved for a few dedicated professionals, who spend years training before making their attempt.

However, among other VR apps dedicated to exploring our world, we now have Everest VR – a realistic and immersive experience that makes you feel like you are really there. You will experience what it takes to climb the highest mountain on the planet and understand the monumental efforts the select few have to make before they reach the peak.

3. theBlu

From the highest peak on Earth, let us dive to the depths of the ocean. theBlu is one of those VR experiences that reminds us that we only know about 5% of the flora and fauna below the shimmering surface of the oceans.

By exploring various natural habitats and meeting majestic ocean dwellers, you will understand why it is so important to protect them from extinction by maintaining a healthy and clean environment for them.

4. National Geographic VR

The National Geographic Society is one of the oldest organizations that promote learning about the entire world we live in. The VR app they developed offers anyone the chance to see endangered species in their natural environment, dive into the deepest oceans, or discover the richness of South Americas’ native civilizations.

Some users have recently been experiencing some errors, so if you happen to be one of them, you can also give the National Geographic Explore VR experience a try. Developed by Force Field Entertainment (acquired by Vertigo Games), the experience lets you step into the shoes of a National Geographic explorer and visit Antarctica and Machu Picchu.

5. Qantas VR

We end our list of VR experiences for exploring the world with an app that only covers Australia. We believe it is worth trying, as it is the only one covering all the key landmarks from Down Under, including the sacred site of Uluru.

Upon request from the Australian authorities, images of the Uluru climb were taken down from Google Maps after the climb was banned in 2019. So, Qantas VR seems like a good option for exploring Uluru as, according to their website, their footage “captures a rare glimpse of one of the most recognizable natural rock formations in the world.”

Quelle:

5 VR Apps for Exploring the World

15. September 2021 0 comment

Knowledge Research

Audi: Das Auto wird der Ort des besten Entertainments

Gemeinsam mit dem Virtual-Reality-Start-up Holoride will Audi das In-Car-Entertainment revolutionieren. Auch andere Autohersteller sollen mitmachen, damit das Konzept den Massenmarkt erreicht.

Die Gäste haben es sich auf dem Rücksitz des Audi E-Tron bequem gemacht. Die Fahrerin startet den Wagen und rollt aus der Einfahrt. Jetzt kommt die VR-Brille zum Einsatz – und plötzlich thronen die Passagiere auf einer Kutsche und fahren durch Salzburg Mitte des 18. Jahrhunderts. Sie rollen über Kopfsteinpflaster, vorbei an patrouillierenden Soldaten, Pferdekarren – und sogar der noch sehr junge Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart begegnet ihnen auf der Straße.

…

Quelle:

https://www.wuv.de/wuvplus/audi_das_auto_wird_der_ort_des_besten_entertainments

Foto:

Der Inhalt des Films passt sich an die Bewegung des Autos an. Dadurch soll den Nutzer:innen nicht übel werden – anders als würde man die VR-Animationen in Ruhe zu Hause anschauen.

Foto: Audi

7. September 2021 0 comment