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Oculus Go

TPCAST Air for Oculus Go Heads to North America

The kit is purely aimed at enterprise use cases.

Last month wireless solutions provider for virtual reality (VR) headsets TPCAST began shipping its TPCAST Air for Oculus Go solution for business in Europe and Asia. Today, the company has expanded those territories to include North America.

TPCAST Air is the company’s second generation wireless solution, originally launching it for the Chinese market in February. The technology is SteamVR-based, providing an ultra-low latency wireless VR experience for 3-DOF applications on the headset. Essentially, it allows customers to easily stream content of their PC and into a standalone headset

Designed for industries such as architecture, engineering, construction, interior decoration design, education and gym spinning, for example, TPCAST Air for Enterprise can, in fact, support different 3-DOF or 6-DOF standalone VR headsets. It supports multi-user applications so in time location-based entertainment (LBE) venues such as VR arcades could use the technology to stream content rather than users having to wear bulky backpack PC’s.

As a single-user system, TPCAST Air for Oculus Go will be sold for $499 USD (including the headset) available for order now at www.tpcastvr.com and also at US VR solution providers.

TPCAST has also confirmed AIR will be coming to Oculus Quest. Able to support the devices Oculus Touch controllers, TPCAST Air for Oculus Quest is scheduled to arrive in about eight weeks (so presumably the start of August). No price has been revealed for this version.

As companies like Oculus and HTC begin steering users towards standalone devices TPCAST has expanded its wireless offerings to keep up. You can still purchase the original TPCAST Consumer Editions for Oculus Rift and HTC Vive. VRFocus will continue its coverage of TPCAST, reporting back with further developments as they’re announced.

Quelle:

TPCAST Air for Oculus Go Heads to North America

14. Juni 2019 0 comment

Hardware Knowledge

Oculus Go & Oculus Quest: Enterprise-Edition soll 2019 erscheinen

Oculus arbeitet derzeit an neuen Enterprise-Editionen der beiden VR-Brillen Oculus Go und Oculus Quest, wie ein kürzlich veröffentlichtes Stellenausschreiben bekannt gibt. Während die Quest-Brille in der normalen Variante erst im Frühjahr 2019 erscheinen wird, ist von der Oculus Go bereits ein Business-Bundle für Unternehmen verfügbar. Die Enterprise-Versionen sollen noch 2019 erscheinen.

Oculus Go und Oculus Quest – Enterprise-Edition sollen 2019 veröffentlicht werden

In einem kürzlich veröffentlichten Stellenausschreiben sucht Oculus nach einem Software-Entwickler für das AR-/VR-Enterprise-Team, um AR- und VR-Plattformen für Unternehmen bereitzustellen. Genauer wird das Ziel beschrieben, eine Enterprise-Edition der Oculus Go sowie Oculus Quest noch 2019 zu veröffentlichen. Dadurch soll eine Technologie geschaffen werden, “die VR und AR allgegenwärtig und universell macht.”

Ein Sprecher von Oculus bestätigte gegenüber Variety, dass die Produkte im Zuge des Business-Angebots des Unternehmens entwickelt werden.

Innerhalb des Anforderungsprofils an die Jobsuchenden kann man einige mögliche Features der neuen Versionen der VR-Brillen herauslesen. Demnach gehört es zu den Aufgaben der Devs, Enterprise-Features für Apps und mobile VR-Systeme sowie VR-Frameworks für praktische Anwendungsfelder in Unternehmen, wie beispielsweise VR-Trainings, zu entwickeln. Sicherheitsmaßnahmen zum Datenschutz werden ausdrücklich hervorgehoben. Ebenso soll mit externen Entwicklern für zukünftige Projekte zusammengearbeitet werden.

Somit tritt Oculus in direkte Konkurrenz mit HTC rund um das Business-Segment. HTC kündigte erst kürzlich seine Vive Focus Plus mit 6DoF-Controllern an, die ebenfalls für den Einsatz in Unternehmen infrage kommt.

Weitere Informationen rund um die neuen Editionen der VR-Brillen könnten uns auf der kommenden GDC 2019 im März oder spätestens auf der Entwicklerkonferenz F8 2019 von Facebook Ende Apri bzw. Anfang Mai erwarten.

Quellen: Road to VR | Variety | Linkedin

Oculus Go & Oculus Quest: Enterprise-Edition soll 2019 erscheinen

12. März 2019 0 comment

Examples

10 Oculus Go Virtual Reality Apps to Try in the Classroom

The day the Oculus Go was released in May, I rushed to Best Buy to get the virtual reality device, which is owned by Facebook, before they sold out. To my surprise, the staff had no idea what I was describing. Fortunately, I was able to find it at the customer service desk, and I was the first customer to purchase it at that store.

Currently, there are two purchase options available: the Oculus Go with 32 GB of storage at $199 or 64 GB of storage at $249. I opted to get more storage as I test many apps to make recommendations for educators, so the extra $50 was worth the price for double the amount of storage.

My first impression of the Oculus Go was the quality of the experience. I typically emphasize using devices that are common in classrooms, such as iPads, Chromebooks and student/teacher phones. But the quality, convenience and cost of the Oculus Go make this product worth evaluating for classroom curriculum.

When I first shared the device with my own children, I guided them to the experiences I believed they would enjoy. From roller coasters to “Face Your Fears” (a scary game that has you facing common phobias), my family appreciated each VR encounter.

My “A-ha” moment came when I noticed how my children used the device when I didn’t direct them. In the following weeks, my device would go missing, and I would find my children wearing the Oculus Go in their rooms. Instead of playing VR games, they were watching shows and movies through my connected Hulu and Netflix accounts.

In disbelief, I asked why they would use the Oculus Go for this reason when the television is always available. They shared that the VR space is customizable to their preference, and they didn’t feel the same sense of interruption as they would when watching television. While I don’t believe our students need to use the Oculus Go for entertainment in the classroom, I did note that this VR device can potentially help our students focus and reduce distractions while providing a personalized experience.

The Oculus Go offers options for both a single player mode, where the student can engage in VR activities independently, or a group mode, where they can play games together or collaborate in group discussions/meetings with other users.

Unlike the Oculus Rift, the Oculus Go is completely stand-alone, and does not require a computer to plug into or cords that tether students to a specific location. To get the most out of your device all you really need is access to reliable Wi-Fi. Using a single remote, the user can navigate the VR space by swiping, selecting and moving around to play, create and explore the many apps available in the Oculus Go Experiences—a kind of app store for the device. I’ve compiled my top 10 favorite experiences to use in the classroom, listing only one paid app to consider. The other nine apps are free.

Given budget restrictions, most educational institutions would likely limit Oculus Go purchases to a few devices for station or group work. Schools that have limited devices can mirror the experience onto another device, such as a computer or smartphone when connected to the same network. The opportunity for other students to share the Oculus experience enables group collaboration and teamwork opportunities. When using them in class, I’ve seen some educators require at least two students per device. While one student is exploring and describing, the other student captures notes and details before swapping roles.

Looking Glass (FREE)

Arrive in the past as you explore history through the “Looking Glass.” The app brings you into a 360-degree view of a room that showcases the years 1892 to 1933. Students can listen to music, view writings, artifacts, images and more as you step into a former time when 3D viewers were first developed. Warning: coming back into the present can be somewhat disappointing.

Wonderful You (FREE)

The creative design and vivid images in this app bring the student into a captivating encounter inside the womb. Watch the growth of the baby from the early weeks to full development and interact with the child using the five senses. Each scene includes breathtaking illustrations and specific details on each stage of development, which makes this app perfect for the classroom.

MasterWorks: Journey Through History (FREE)

I was fascinated with the view from Mount Rushmore, especially from my location under the monumental stone sculptures. While the option for real-world tourists to view the national memorial is only from the visitor center or trails, the VR experience brings the student onto the rocks and the monument. Listen to audio clips as you explore the space that describes the tools used, the challenges the carvers faced and the inspiration behind the creation of the monument.

Gala360 See the World – Camp Fire in Paradise (FREE)

I watched hours of news coverage on the Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif., but there is no 2D experience that I can compare to the VR story by Gala360. Driving through the streets in Paradise, the student is immersed into the horrific reality of that devastating fire. I was shocked and saddened as I looked around to see homes, vehicles and structures completely burned to the ground. The Gala360 app has many other stories, and the opportunity for our students to build empathy while growing in understanding are endless.

MEL Chemistry Labs (FREE)

A frequently requested resource in AR and VR is the periodic table, and MEL Chemistry labs bring it to life, showing the relevance of each element. Build an atom through exploratory learning and discover the benefits and fun of exploring chemistry.

Calcflow (FREE)

Visualizing mathematical functions in 2D is rendered unnecessary by Calcflow. The app brings difficult concepts to a basic display, while uniquely presenting data. View the examples provided or customize your function to graph your own data.

CoSpaces (FREE)

The CoSpaces app is a platform to build, code and share your virtual and augmented reality creations. While the mobile, tablet and web-based platform allow students to create content, the Oculus Go app is a space for viewing gallery items you’ve already created.

Anne Frank House VR (FREE)

My journey through Anne Frank’s house was mesmerizing. I lost track of my bearings as I traveled from room to room, learning more about Anne’s emotional experience as she faced each day in fear for her life. As I entered each room, I felt as if Anne had invited me on a tour of her journey, and I left the experience with more understanding and compassion for the Jewish people that faced this horrific event.

AltSpace (FREE)

It’s no surprise that the Facebook-owned device is heavily focused on social collaboration. The AltSpace app is a VR meeting space that offers breakout rooms for live events, games, entertainment and more. While we may not be ready to bring our students into public VR spaces, we are approaching a new era of global collaboration and VR looks more promising to eventually offer this option to our classrooms.

Apollo 11 ($4.99)

After my experience with Apollo 11, I strongly recommend this app being your first purchase for the Oculus Go. Many of the scenes left me in awe, especially when I glimpsed the perfect view of Earth. In the app, the viewer has the option of either a cinematic experience, to sit back and watch in 360, or an interactive experience to help support a successful mission.

Concerns to Consider

There are many reasons to find value using the Oculus Go in the classroom, but I have some concerns that teachers should consider. On occasion, after using the Oculus Go for an extended period, I’ve experienced some nausea. Consider limiting the amount of time students spend in the device to reduce this problem. Each app has a comfort level listed, ranging from “comfortable” to “intense” to provide guidance for sensitive VR users. Beginning with apps at the comfortable level would be a wise choice. Then move into more intense levels as you find beneficial and appropriate for your students.

While using the Oculus Go, a fully-charged device can run quite some time before needing another charge. The problem many users are finding is maintaining a charge because the full shutdown of the device is somewhat tricky and can drain your battery quickly. I’ve had to change the battery on my remote several times as I rarely shutdown my device, and I finally began taking out the battery when I’m not using the Oculus Go to maintain battery life.

Before you add the Oculus Go to your budget, consider what’s ahead in 2019. Oculus is releasing their upcoming device, called the Quest, with an expected release date in the spring of 2019. The standalone device will use insight tracking to allow the viewer to sit or stand in large or small indoor areas. The dual remotes will give the user more options for experiences and creating products in VR. While the price will increase, with a starting point set at $399, the device is expected to be improved and more practical for classroom integration. Moreover, the technology will provide a more useful resource for deeper learning and interaction. I anticipate the Oculus Quest will be on many teachers wish lists in 2019. Happy viewing!

Quelle:

https://www.edsurge.com/amp/news/2019-01-04-10-oculus-go-virtual-reality-apps-to-try-in-the-classroom?__twitter_impression=true

25. Januar 2019 0 comment

Hardware Knowledge

CES 2019: Antilatency Turns Oculus Go Into 6DOF Multiuser VR

I’ve tried Antilatency a number of times and the startup’s CES 2019 demo was the best yet. The demo was like a smaller scale version of the impressive multi-user Oculus Quest “arena” setup we enjoyed so much at Oculus Connect 5. At CES, Antilatency employed Oculus Go and a small add-on to track the headset as well as gloves, a tablet and a controller. Antilatency’s tracking system uses infrared lights in the floor with the headset add-on featuring a super wide angle module to see the lights. For comparison, a much larger tracked space is below in the video of the Quest arena from OC5. Lines on most surfaces in the arena made the environment more visible to Quest’s sensors.

Antilatency Alt Tracker

Antilatency is selling a kit for around $250 to track a headset up to around 5×5 meters. The integration of foam flooring with the lights is custom. Antilatency might be a lower-cost alternative to Optitrack, Vicon or SteamVR Tracking for location-based VR installations. Antilatency representatives said they are working with around 10 pilot projects. One project tracks five people with two hands each over hundreds of square meters, according to the company.

This solution could be particularly well-suited to an installation like Alien: Descent by Pure Imagination and Fox. In that experience, Gear VRs and quality floor haptics provide the sense Aliens are attacking you and a friend. The creators used OptiTrack sensors with Gear VR. The visual fidelity and easy setup of an Oculus Go combined with Antilatency tracking might make for a compelling alternative. Antilatency claims its hardware adds only 2 milliseconds of latency while taking 2,000 position measurements per second. I tried it at CES with two players and a single hand controller per player, along with a tablet tracked as well. Everything seemed extremely accurate and, yes, low latency. I can’t say how it would perform in a real world scenario though. Added latency might only be perceptible in a complex virtual world with voice chat, more players or other additions not in the CES demo.

Occlusion

The interlocking foam design of the flooring shown at CES felt solid underfoot for steady walking throughout the tracked space.

The ultra wide field of view “Alt” sensor sees the lights built into the flooring and plugs into the USB port on Oculus Go. The company says the system can come with different connectors for different VR headsets. Even with the lights momentarily blocked from view, the hardware appeared to track accurately. This is important in crowded multi-user setups where players can block the view of the lights in more ways. Again, though, this was a highly controlled demo with an empty virtual world. We’ll be curious to see if any of the pilot projects using Antilatency are confident enough in the quality of their systems to open publicly and start charging admission. We’ll provide updates on Antilatency and other location-based VR entertainment throughout 2019.

Quelle:

https://uploadvr.com/ces-2019-antilatency-oculus-go-6dof/amp/

16. Januar 2019 0 comment

Hardware Knowledge

Oculus Go Standalone VR Headset, Accessory And Game Buying Guide

Oculus Go is an all-in-one VR headset — it is a “standalone’ with no need for a PC or phone — and it comes with simple 3DoF movement tracking for both the headset and its single hand controller.

This means Oculus Go is best used seated and many of the most compelling VR games like Beat Saber and Superhot will never work on this system. Even so, Oculus Go can be quite compelling for private video viewing or for occasional games. Here’s our guide to the headset itself, accessories you might want to think about and the first games and experiences you should buy for the headset if you decide to pick one up.

What is Oculus Go?

Oculus Go’s $200 pricing was leaked in mid-2017, but the headset was formally revealed at the Oculus Connect 4 VR developer’s conference. The system started shipping in May 2018 starting at $200 in two versions that differ only in storage capacity — either 32 GB or 64GB for around $250.

Facebook advertises Oculus Go as supporting more than 1,000 apps and games because it is built on the framework the company built years earlier for the Samsung Gear VR. Millions of people received Gear VR bundled for free with the purchase of a Samsung phone, but because the VR mode on these phones drained power so quickly not many people wanted to expend the energy and time to use their phone this way.

While it doesn’t require a phone to operate, Oculus Go uses an app on Android and iPhone to manage the headset and activate a casting feature so that a friend can see what the player in VR sees. Oculus Go features integrated audio, so it has a microphone built in and sound comes out of the sides of the headset near the ears. You can also connect standard 3.5 mm headphones.

Advice: Oculus Go is a dedicated standalone VR headset that solves some of the problems facing phone-based VR combined with the strongest library of content you will find in this price range.

32 GB or 64 GB

The best VR games available on Oculus Go range in size considerably from Virtual Virtual Reality at 315 MB to Eclipse: Edge of Light at around 1 GB. Hopefully, apps like Netflix add support for locally downloaded videos but that’s not the case as of this writing, so there isn’t a huge reason to upgrade for the extra storage since you can re-download apps at any time.

As long as you’ve got solid Wi-Fi connectivity, there’s YouTube VR and Netflix apps as well as a robust Internet browser for other Web-based services and videos. If you’re not connected to the Internet, Oculus offers video rentals and purchases that can be locally downloaded and it is possible to sideload content onto the device with some work.

Advice: 32 GB is plenty of storage for most Oculus Go owners, but if you opt to buy 64 GB it is because you like having lots of local content and are expecting to store lots of videos internally on the headset itself.

Battery Pack

An Anker Powercore battery pack we’ve been able to fit into the official Oculus Go carrying case.

Oculus Go’s internal battery is non-removable and lasts two hours or moredepending on what you’re doing.

The headset also features a micro USB connector, which is usually the same connector found on most portable battery packs. This means if you have a 3-5 foot USB cable with a micro USB connector on it, you should be able to put the battery pack in your pocket and run the cord up to the headset to charge it up while using it.

Advice: A battery pack is incredibly useful for extending the battery life of Oculus Go and having a charged up pack on hand can mean the difference between using the headset and deciding now isn’t the right time.

Carrying Case

There are a number of carrying cases you can get for Oculus Go ranging from unofficial ones priced around $20 to the official case, pictured below, priced at $35.

Advice: We’ve tested both these travel cases with Oculus Go and each provides ample room for a battery pack, cords, controller and the headset itself. You won’t be able to fit a gamepad in these cases but it’s not exactly a necessity to carry that with Go.

Gamepads

A gamepad isn’t necessary for Oculus Go and there aren’t a ton of games which utilize it. Even so, it is possible to connect a PS4 controller, some Xbox One controllers and even the Nintendo Switch Pro controller to Oculus Go. At the time of this writing, Minecraft VR isn’t officially supported on Go and that would be the biggest reason to prioritize connecting a controller to the system.

Advice: Most Oculus Go buyers probably shouldn’t bother with a gamepad, but for those that need it you can certainly connect one.

Best Free Apps And Games

There is some really engaging free software that can you can download to Oculus Go for a taste of what the headset offers. For example, Face Your Fears, Bigscreen, Pet Lab, Bait! and Guided Meditation VR, are all free up front and provide a nice cross-section of the kinds of experiences and interactions that are possible with Oculus Go.

Also be sure to check out free family-friendly Oculus-backed projects like Henry, Coco VR and Crow: The Legend.

Advice: Start with these free apps and games when you first get the headset then move along to the paid games.

Best Paid Games

The pathway from Gear VR to Oculus Go means a number of developers have honed the design of their VR games for this headset over a number of years. But for quality gaming on Oculus Go you’ll want to take a closer look at the following titles in the Oculus Store:

Dead Secret: Circle ($14.99)
Republique VR ($9.99)
Thumper ($9.99)
Eclipse: Edge of Light ($9.99)
Wands ($9.99)
Catan VR ($9.99)
Drop Dead ($9.99)
Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes ($9.99)
Ocean Rift ($9.99)
Virtual Virtual Reality ($9.99)
They Suspect Nothing ($7.99)
End Space ($7.99)
Anshar Online ($7.99)
VR Karts: Sprint ($7.99)
The Well ($4.99)
Smash Hit ($2.99)

Advice: If you’re new to VR games we suggest starting with a friend playing Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes and then see which of the other games on the above list look interesting to you.

Sideloading Content

We have to warn that sideloaded apps are not vetted by Oculus. Nonetheless, it is certainly possible for you to install them at your own risk, just keep in mind that they could affect the security or stability of your headset.

We provide that warning up front because well-made Android apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video — apps which let you download videos for offline viewing — are important enough to some people that taking the risk of sideloading content is worth it.

Advice: Check out our step-by-step guide for how to sideload content onto Oculus Go if you decide you need to have a few apps that aren’t available from the Oculus Store.

Quelle:

https://uploadvr.com/oculus-go-standalone-vr-headset-accessory-and-game-buying-guide/

7. Januar 2019 0 comment

Knowledge Software/Apps

‘Virtual Desktop’ Arrives On Oculus Go & Gear VR

An official release for the Oculus Quest is scheduled for 2019.

Released back in March of 2016, Virtual Desktop is a handy utility application that allows users the ability to view and access their desktop computer from the comfort of their Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, or WMR headset.

Previously available strictly on PC VR headsets, creator Guy Gordin recently revealed that a version of the tool optimized for mobile platforms will launch on the Oculus Go and Samsung Gear VR later this week, with plans for an Oculus Quest release planned sometime next year.

Users will be able to connect their mobile headsets to their desktop through WiFi or via the internet by enabling UPnP on your router. Much like its PCbased predecessor, the app offers touch input support via Window’s native touch keyboard, as well as bluetooth mice, gamepads, and various other keyboards for a unique, yet familiar web browsing experience. Users are also free to use the Oculus Go and Gear VR 3DoF controllers to navigate the app as if using a conventional mouse. There’s also the ability to alternate between four individual computer systems at a time, all in a matter of seconds.

According to a Reddit post made by Gordin, the mobile version includes a 20ms + network latency versus what you see on the monitor; a limitation he claims isn’t much of an issue, so long as you’re not playing competitive Counter-Strike: GO. Other restrictions include slight latency on devices connected via bluetooth, as well as the inability to view multiple desktops simultaneously for a multimonitor virtual setup.

“The app is deadlocked natively on top of OpenGL and the Oculus Mobile SDK to maximize performance and reduce battery usage,” Gordin explains in the trailer provided. “Having access to your computer will allow you to watch movies without having to connect your headset with a USB cable, transferring files to it, and worrying about running out of space. You can watch movies from your private collection, Netflix, Hulu, or any other streaming service.”

Virtual Desktop launches on Oculus Go and Samsung Gear VR November 29thfor $9.99. Plans for an Oculus Quest release are scheduled for 2019.

If you already have a PC VR headset, such as an HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, or Windows Mixed Reality, pick up Virtual Desktop now while it’s still on sale for 50% off through the Steam Store.

Quelle:

Image Credit: Guy Gordin

https://vrscout.com/news/virtual-desktop-oculus-go-gear-vr/

7. Dezember 2018 0 comment

Knowledge Software/Apps

Explore the immersive web with Firefox Reality. Now available for Viveport, Oculus, and Daydream

Earlier this year, we shared that we are building a completely new browser called Firefox Reality. The mixed reality team at Mozilla set out to build a web browser that has been designed from the ground up to work on stand-alone virtual and augmented reality (or mixed reality) headsets. Today, we are pleased to announce that the first release of Firefox Reality is available in the Viveport, Oculus, and Daydream app stores.

At a time when people are questioning the impact of technology on their lives and looking for leadership from independent organizations like Mozilla, Firefox Reality brings to the 3D web and immersive content experiences the level of ease of use, choice, control and privacy they’ve come to expect from Firefox.

But for us, the ability to enjoy the 2D web is just table stakes for a VR browser. We built Firefox Reality to move seamlessly between the 2D web and the immersive web.
Designed from the virtual ground up

The Mixed Reality team here at Mozilla has invested a significant amount of time, effort, and research into figuring out how we can design a browser for virtual reality:

We had to rethink everything, including navigation, text-input, environments, search and more. This required years of research, and countless conversations with users, content creators, and hardware partners. The result is a browser that is built for the medium it serves. It makes a big difference, and we think you will love all of the features and details that we’ve created specifically for a MR browser.
– Andre Vrignaud, Head of Mixed Reality Platform Strategy at Mozilla

Among these features is the ability to search the web using your voice. Text input is still a chore for virtual reality, and this is a great first step towards solving that. With Firefox Reality you can choose to search using the microphone in your headset.

Content served fresh

We spent a lot of time talking to early VR headset owners. We asked questions like: “What is missing?” “Do you love your device?” And “If not, why?” The feedback we heard the most was that users were having a hard time finding new games and experiences. This is why we built a feed of amazing content into the home screen of Firefox Reality.
– Andre Vrignaud, Head of Mixed Reality Platform Strategy at Mozilla

From the moment you open the browser, you will be presented with immersive experiences that can be enjoyed on a VR headset directly from the Firefox Reality browser. We are working with creators around the world to bring an amazing collection of games, videos, environments, and experiences that can be accessed directly from the home screen.

A new dimension of Firefox

We know a thing or two about making an amazing web browser. Firefox Reality is using our new Quantum engine for mobile browsers. The result is smooth and fast performance that is crucial for a VR browser. We also take things like privacy and transparency very seriously. As a company, we are dedicated to fighting for your right to privacy on the web. Our values have guided us through this creation process, just as they do with every product we build.

We are just getting started

We are in this for the long haul. This is version 1.0 of Firefox Reality and version 1.1 is right around the corner. We have an always-growing list of ideas and features that we are working to add to make this the best browser for mixed reality. We will also be listening and react quickly when we need to provide bug fixes and other minor updates.

If you notice a few things are missing (“Hey! Where are the bookmarks”), just know that we will be adding features at a steady pace. In the coming months, we will be adding support for bookmarks, 360 videos, accounts, and more. We intend to quickly prove our commitment to this product and our users.
Built in the open

Here at Mozilla, we make it a habit to work in the open because we believe in the power of transparency, community and collaboration. If you have an idea, or a bug report, or even if you just want to geek out, we would love to hear from you. You can follow @mozillareality on twitter, file an issue on GitHub, or visit our support site.
Calling all creators

Are you creating immersive content for the web? Have you built something using WebVR? We would love to connect with you about featuring those experiences in Firefox Reality. Are you building a mixed reality headset that needs a best-in-class browser? Let’s chat.

Firefox Reality is available right now.

Quelle:
https://blog.mozilla.org/blog/2018/09/18/firefox-reality-now-available/

25. September 2018 0 comment

Examples

How VR is Transforming the Way We Train Associates – 17,000 Oculus Headsets

If you’ve ever tried on a virtual reality (VR) headset, you’re familiar with its ability to recreate real-life experiences. Even a rollercoaster ride simulation has the potential to make your stomach drop.

VR tech has taken everything from journalism to pro football quarterback training to the next level. And last year, Walmart introduced VR to the world of employee training and development by using the technology to upgrade training at Walmart Academies nationwide. With the huge success of that program, the company is now providing Oculus VR headsets to all stores in the U.S. to bring the same level of training to more than 1 million Walmart associates.

“The great thing about VR is its ability to make learning experiential,” said Andy Trainor, Walmart’s senior director of Walmart U.S. Academies. “When you watch a module through the headset, your brain feels like you actually experienced a situation. We’ve also seen that VR training boosts confidence and retention while improving test scores 10 to 15 percent – even those associates who simply watched others experience the training saw the same retention boosts.”

Starting next month, VR training will begin its launch across the country, sending four headsets to every Walmart supercenter and two units to every Neighborhood Market and discount store. With more than 17,000 Oculus Go headsets in stores by the end of the year, every associate – including those on the floor who interact with customers the most – will have access to the same training that their managers and department managers do at the Academies.

Brock McKeel, senior director of digital operations, worked with Andy to bring VR training to associates, and said there are already more than 45 activity-based modules using industry-leading software provided by STRIVR. STRIVR’s platform delivers realistic, repeatable and scalable training content, which helps associates learn information more quickly and retain it better.

“We are entering a new era of learning, and Walmart continues to lead the way,” said Derek Belch, CEO of STRIVR, which worked with Walmart on its initial launch of VR in Academies last year. “The power of VR is real, and when offered as a cornerstone of learning and development, it can truly transform the way an organization trains its people.”

Walmart plans to use VR to train associates in three main areas: new technology, soft skills like empathy and customer service, and compliance.

VR training is particularly helpful for learning new tech. In a pilot test this summer, 10 stores used VR for training on new Pickup Tower units in their stores. VR is allowing associates to be trained before the towers are even installed – no teachers required. This will be key as Walmart continues to roll out new tech to stores.

Adrian Carthen used the VR training to learn about the Pickup Tower when it came to her store in Stockbridge, Ga., this summer. She said it “went beyond hands-on.”

“I’m a gamer, so I was excited to use it,” she said. “It felt like you were actually loading the tower. And I could train any time that I wanted and it was done in just a few minutes.“

We have a lot of people who are cross-trained to use the tower now and they can help customers, which is amazing.
Instilling confidence is exactly what makes VR so effective as a training tool. Because the effect of VR training is like an experience in real life, associates have the freedom to make mistakes and learn by “doing,” all while in a safe environment.

“Walmart was one of the first companies to benefit from VR’s ability to enrich employee education, and its applications will only grow from here,” said Andy Mathis, Oculus’ head of business partnerships. “What makes it so compelling is that costly, difficult, or otherwise-impossible scenarios and simulations become not only possible, but immediately within reach.”

But beyond the investment in innovation and associate training, VR technology helps teach skills that enrich the careers of associates across the U.S.

“Yes, we’re focused on helping people do their jobs better every day. But the training we’ve designed is also hopefully training for life,” McKeel said. “That person walks out of their store with new skills and more confidence than they had before – that’s the passion behind this project.”

Quelle:
https://blog.walmart.com/innovation/20180920/how-vr-is-transforming-the-way-we-train-associates

24. September 2018 0 comment

Examples

Wander im Test: Weltreise in Virtual Reality

Eine Weltreise ist eigentlich ein teurer Spaß, der für viele von uns wohl ein Traum bleiben wird. Wander lässt uns selbigen auf Oculus Go für kleines Geld in VR erleben. Wir haben die App getestet.

Die Immersion von Virtual Reality lässt uns tief in fremde (Spiel)Welten eintauchen. Da liegt der Gedanke nah, das auch für unseren ganz realen blauen Planeten anzubieten. Wander versucht genau das – größtenteils mit Erfolg.

Die ganze Welt (und mehr) in VR

Wie ist es überhaupt möglich, die gesamte Welt in eine einzige App für eine autarke VR-Brille zu packen? Die Entwickler von Parkline Interactive bedienen sich hier eines ebenso simplen wie effektiven Tricks. Wander nutzt nämlich das Datenmaterial von Google Street View. Dadurch können wir an jeden Ort der Welt reisen, den der umtriebige Internetriese kartografiert hat.

Dazu zählen natürlich touristisch erschlossene Orte wie das Taj Mahal, Machu Picchu oder der Eiffelturm, aber auch exotischere Reiseziele. Wir können in VR einen Blick in die Krater brodelnder Vulkane werfen, arktische Gefilde besuchen und sogar einen Abstecher in den Weltraum machen. Ja, ihr habt richtig gehört: Auch ein Besuch der internationalen Raumstation ISS ist nämlich mit Wander möglich.

Laufen, Lernen, Staunen

Besonders cool ist, dass wir uns mit unserer Oculus Go an den meisten Orten nicht nur wie in einem 360 Grad-Film umsehen, sondern uns auch per Teleportation durch die Szenerie bewegen können. Das sorgt für ein schönes Präsenzgefühl, das aber nicht ganz perfekt ist.

Dazu sind einige Aufnahmen einfach nicht hoch genug aufgelöst und teils ist an sichtbaren Kanten deutlich erkennbar, wo mehrere Aufnahmen zu einem Rundumbild zusammengefügt wurden. Allerdings liegt das am zugrundeliegenden Bildmaterial, und nicht an der App selbst.

Dafür glänz Wander mit einigen praktischen Zusatzfunktionen. Es gibt eine Sprachsuche, mit der wir (auf englisch) relativ zielsicher Orte und Adressen direkt ansteuern können. Zudem gibt es das „Places to Visit“-Feature. Dabei handelt es sich um eine kuratierte Zusammenstellung besuchenswerter Orte.

Das Spektrum reicht dabei von Naturschauplätzen über virtuelle Städtetrips bis zu einer VR-Reise durch die Drehorte von Game of Thrones. Ebenfalls sehr cool: Dank Wikipedia-Integration können wir zu vielen Reiseorten direkt aus der App heraus interessante Zusatzdetails erfahren.

Oculus Go mit Reisefieber

An Orten, an denen Street View mehrmals zugegen war, können wir uns anschauen, wie diese sich im Verlauf der Zeit verändert haben. Eine Funktion, die uns potentiell interessante weitere Orte in der Nähe unseres virtuellen Aufenthaltsortes anzeigt, rundet das Angebot ab.

Ganz perfekt ist Wander allerdings nicht. Während unseres Test wurde unsere VR-Brille ziemlich heiß. Zudem zieht die App der Oculus Go den Strom aus dem Akku wie eine Touristenfalle arglosen Reisenden das Geld aus der Tasche.

Auch das an sich intuitiv zu bedienende Interface hat noch einige Kinderkrankheiten: Einige Male hängte sich dieses auf und war nicht mehr zu benutzen – einzig ein Neustart der Appschaffte Abhilfe. Wir hoffen, dass die Entwickler hier noch ein wenig nachbessern. Von diesen kleinen Unzulänglichkeiten abgesehen, bietet Wander jedoch zahllose Stunden Entdeckungsspaß zum wirklich kleinen Preis.

Quelle:

Wander im Test

24. August 2018 0 comment

Examples

Oculus Go & Gear VR: Live-Event-App Oculus Venues veröffentlicht

Oculus veröffentlichte seine neue soziale VR-App Oculus Venues für Oculus Gound Gear VR im Oculus Store. Die App ermöglicht es Nutzern zukünftig innerhalb der VR an unterschiedlichen Live-Events, wie beispielsweiße Konzerten, Sportveranstaltungen, Comedy-Shows und vielem mehr teilzunehmen. Das Angebot soll zukünftig dauerhaft erweitert werden. Zusätzlich ist es möglich, innerhalb der immersiven Umgebung mit Freunden und Fans in Kontakt zu treten.

Oculus Venues – Live-Events innerhalb der Virtual Reality erleben

Die neue App Oculus Venues ermöglicht es Nutzern an unterschiedlichen Live-Events der verschiedensten Entertainment-Bereiche teilzuhaben. Egal ob Sport, Musik, Comedy oder Filme – das Unterhaltungsangebot ist vielzählig und soll dauerhaft erweitert werden.

In Kooperation mit verschiedenen Partnern sollen innerhalb der nächsten Monate an diversen Abenden verschiedene Live-Events stattfinden. Dazu zählen die Comedy-Show Gotham Comedy Live, Übertragungen der MLB Baseball-Liga, Filmübertragungen verschiedener Blockbuster, wie Reservoir Dogs und Musikkonzerte. Die genaue Liste der Termine findet ihr hier. Leider beginnen die Übertragungen nach amerikanischer Zeit, weshalb Europäer neun Stunden auf die jeweiligen Uhrzeiten aufrechnen müssen.

Beim Besuch der virtuellen Veranstaltungen steht es den Nutzern offen, wie sie die VR-Erfahrung erleben möchten. So kann man mit Freunden oder Fremden in Kontakt treten und sich mit diesen unterhalten und austauschen. Um gegen Belästigungen in der virtuellen Menge vorzugehen, stehen diverse Funktionen zum muten oder blockieren anderer Personen zur Verfügung. Zudem ist es möglich, andere Nutzer zu melden. Bei jeder Veranstaltung werden Community-Moderatoren eingesetzt, die schnell und hart gegen Störer vorgehen sollen.

Wer kein Interesse an der Kommunikation mit anderen Personen hat, kann die Events im Solo-Zuschauermodus in aller Ruhe verfolgen.

Oculus Venues ist kostenlos für Oculus Go und Gear VR im Oculus Store erhältlich. Zur Nutzung wird ein Facebook-Account vorausgesetzt.

Quelle:

Oculus Go & Gear VR: Live-Event-App Oculus Venues veröffentlicht

(Quellen: Oculus Blog | Upload VR | Video: Oculus Youtube)

7. Juni 2018 0 comment