Planar Studios is a cooperative initiative designed to bring together experts, thought leaders and companies dedicated to the advancement of VP and XR. The Planar Studios Virtual Production Workshop reinforces Planar and OptiTrack’s ongoing commitment to helping make VP and XR solutions more accessible and streamlined in mainstream markets, says the company.

“VP and XR is a fast-growing market, and as global leaders with established histories of delivering state-of-the-art display and optical-tracking technologies, Planar and OptiTrack are strongly positioned to lay a framework for the AV and IT communities,” says Stephanie Hines, Planar and OptiTrack EVP. “The potential of VP and XR is widespread, transforming the way companies present content in entertainment, corporate, education and beyond. Planar and OptiTrack are dedicated to helping make this a reality for all.”

Monthly Virtual Production Workshops

Kicking off in August, Planar and OptiTrack will host the workshops at Planar’s headquarters in Hillsboro, Ore. Here, it offer hands-on learning experience in the many critical elements integrated in a VP and XR volume. August workshop attendees will thus get to learn about LED display technology design and motion capture for VP and XR applications from Planar and OptiTrack. Additionally, they will experience trainings from a broad range of organizations. This includes experts from Brompton Technology, Pixera, RED, optic8 and Kino Flo Lighting Systems. Participating organizations will vary from workshop to workshop. However, topic areas will remain consistent, the company says.

According to Planar, the new workshops are being held monthly. They will also feature a special guest sharing real-world experience and key learnings. Registration is currently open for workshops taking place August 21 to 25, as well as periodic sessions in the coming months.

“The pro AV and IT industries are being called upon to deploy VP and XR solutions. This presents new questions and opportunities that are outside of the traditional AV or IT role,” says Adam Schmidt, Planar and OptiTrack EVP. “Our new Planar Studios Virtual Production Workshop is comprehensive. It offers a thorough overview of the many components that go into a successful deployment. We’re honored to help guide the industry with such a diverse and notable group of technology experts.”

Workshop Agenda

Each workshop will thus include the following sessions:

• Evening Welcome Reception: Check out the volume at Planar headquarters while connecting with other VP and XR technology enthusiasts.
• LED Displays: In this AVIXA CTS-approved course, learn how to implement LED into VP and XR. This includes an all-encompassing look at the important qualities, features and specifications. Learn about maximizing use of display technology. These include display options, site preparation, mounting, installation and alignment.
• Video Processing: Explore LED processing functionality and key features such as on-screen image manipulation, color calibration and other workflows.
• Motion Capture: Dive into the essential elements of motion capture and camera-tracking technology that enable accurate, dynamic on-screen content.
• Content Engines: Get an introduction to the media servers and software platforms used for VP, including best practices, tips and tricks.
• Video Cameras: Review digital-cinematography options as camera manufacturers cover everything from shutter and lensing features to color control and more.
• Studio Lighting: Walk through cinema-graphic and studio-lighting concepts and techniques. Also become familiar with using different fixture types for traditional and VP and XR-specific applications.
• Volume Integration: Combine the various technologies that are key in implementing a successful VP and XR volume. Additionally, walk away with real-world knowledge from a special guest.

The Planar Studios Virtual Production Workshop, presented by Planar Academy, offers a broad selection of in-person and online training courses to help AV professionals expand and enhance their knowledge and skills. At the same time, they can earn valuable continuing education credits, the company notes.

To register for the Planar Studios Virtual Production Workshop, visit www.planar.com/VP-Workshop.

Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site Commercial Integrator on August 9, 2023. It has since been updated for My TechDecisions’ audience.

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After integrating automation and cloud computing into its platform, the Union City, Calif.-based company is now introducing VR into design and sales processes to create a new benchmark for the AV industry. X-VRSE lets users enter into and explore their spaces using an interactive VR platform.

The technology of X-VRSE allows users to add, alter and customize the products and aesthetics of the room while witnessing all of it, in front of them, in the X-VRSE environment. With a range of room options, users can simulate meeting rooms, classrooms, immersive rooms, etc., using X-VRSE. Device coverages, sitelines, sound pressure levels can be visualized, enabling users to change or reposition their devices, choosing the right product for the right environment.

Additionally, X-VRSE lets users “Bring their own Rooms,” 3D renders made in tools like Revit and Google sketchup and visualize them in X-VRSE VR environment. X-VRSE automatically creates multiple drawings in 2D such as Line Schematics, Signal Flow Diagrams, etc.

“We are excited to launch X-VRSE, a VR solution that is going to transform design and sales processes in the AV industry. After streamlining the platform with technologies like automation and cloud computing, and winning awards and even a patent for these, VR was the next big thing that XTEN-AV had its eye on!,” says Vibhav Singh and Sahil Dhingra, co-founders, XTEN-AV.

They continue, “Our aim is to give our users a world-class VR experience and equip them with the latest technology to create even more comprehensive designs & spaces. X-VRSE offers multiple ways to utilize the platform by either using a VR headset or by using a standalone version on any laptop or desktop, essentially working as a game on your computer.”

Incorporation of virtual reality with AV design and sales offers the ease of visualizing 2D designs, as an immersive experience, even at the conceptualization/design stage of a project, says XTEN-AV.

The X-VRSE technology not just makes it easier for the AV designers and integrators to create comprehensive, stimulating AV designs but also for sales to convince decision-makers and clients to select appropriate products right from the start, sys the company.

XTEN-AV will be showcasing X-VRSE LIVE at booth #4260 at InfoComm 2023. Visitors can experience the VR solution and its immersive environment, interact with the founding team, and avail exciting offers and discounts.

Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site Commercial Integrator on June 6, 2023. It has since been updated for My TechDecisions’ audience.

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Virtual Production in Action

Per a statement, InfoComm attendees will get a first-hand look at how virtual production works at The Unreal Ride, a virtual production experience presented by Vū, Unilumin, and MRMC (booth 6081). The teams have collaborated to debut an entirely new Unreal Ride. The experience features a Jeep where two participants can ride through newly created virtual worlds specifically designed for InfoComm 2023. Attendees will also experience a blend of the physical and virtual worlds through a combination of the latest innovations in virtual production technology. These include advanced LED panels, a motion-controlled camera, camera tracking and virtual environments created with Unreal Engine and lighting optimized for virtual production.

“We’re really looking forward to this virtual production experience Vū, Unilumin and MRMC are bringing to InfoComm 2023,” says Rochelle Richardson, CEM, senior vice president of expositions and events, AVIXA, producer of InfoComm. “The InfoComm audience is not only going to see the magic of virtual production — they’re also going to get to participate!”

Deep Dive into Emerging Trends

On Tuesday, June 13, InfoComm will present “Emerging Trends,” an annual review of the industry’s latest technology advancements. The half-day program, led by Pete Coman of PTS Consulting, will allow attendees to discover how technologies such as AR, VR, NDI, Dante AV, wireless collaboration solutions and other emerging tech will revolutionize the way we connect and collaborate.

The day begins with the session “Beyond Reality: Exploring the Future of Work with Virtual and Augmented Reality” led by Linda Gedemer of AlphaTech. Next, Oliver Van Camp from Barco and Christopher Jaynes of Q-SYS will present “Unleashing the Power of Connectivity and Collaboration: A Glimpse into the Future.”

Paul Harris from Aurora Multimedia will also discuss “Revolutionizing the Workplace: The Future of Audio Visual & Control Technology.” The program concludes with the session “NDI and Dante AV: Which one is the real AV superhero?” with Paul Richards of PTZ Optics and Will Waters from Audinate.

“The education program at InfoComm 2023 will show you the endless possibilities of pro AV technology,” adds Annette Sandler, director, live content, U.S./Canada, AVIXA. “Attendees can take classes on specific technologies they need to learn more about and different applications and case studies for projects that they’re working on. Our Emerging Trends program is a must-attend for anyone wanting to know “what’s next” in the ever-evolving world of pro AV.”

All About AI

InfoComm 2023 will also host more than 100 hours of education on critical pro AV topics, including emerging technologies like AI.

On Wednesday, June 14, Diversified’s Stephen Jenkins and Blaine Brown will present the session “The Impact of AI: How AI Will Enhance and Transform the Industry” at the Technology Innovation Stage (booth 2260). They’ll explore AI-powered collaboration solutions and revolutionary cloud services. These include OpenAI and Microsoft Copilot. They’ll also discuss the imminent shift from “preventative” to “predictive” maintenance through AI-enabled analytics, leading to self-healing capabilities.

Brad Sousa of AVI Systems will also present “Integrating Tools to Make the Workplace More Useful: AI and Smart Technologies” on Thursday, June 15. In this session, Sousa will discuss how AI and smart technologies can enhance meeting workspaces and concierge services for individual employees as well as security tools — all using sensors, IoT, occupancy and access control to correlate data.

Another version of this article originally appeared on our sister-site Commercial Integrator on June 2, 2023. It has since been updated for My TechDecisions’ audience.

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Digital avatars and holographic humans fill the “interaction void” between humans and the digital and physical worlds. The variety of virtual states creates the so-called mixed-reality spectrum, which includes the following:

• Near-digital experiences
• Near-physical experiences
• Mixed-reality experiences

As a part of mixed reality, holographic display technology can be used in all sorts of areas. Fundamentally, virtual and augmented realities are substantially similar, although brands often use them quite differently and, in some cases, you cannot replace one with the other. Let’s explore both.

Virtual Reality vs. Augmented Reality

Virtual reality is indispensable for complex simulations when there is no other way to reproduce specific reality conditions. Meanwhile, augmented reality is increasingly used for product modeling and extending reality with extra data.

A good example of when virtual reality might be used would be someone checking into a hotel or making a deposit at a bank. There are some parts of the interaction, such as name and details, that are easy to script. However, there are other parts that require a genuine human interaction. When the second part is essential, this can now be done via a call center or central location using a livestream and green screen. Thus, organizations can be far more efficient while still providing that personal service.

Many brands are looking for more control over the way that their products are created and sold. Establishing strong communications between those brands and their end users adds even more value to the brands and their product offerings.

Retailers are also keen to develop their customers’ in-store experience so as to provide a reason to come back to brick-and-mortar stores. Interactive advertising or interactive promotions have the power to create extraordinary consumer experiences, thereby giving retailers the ability to connect with consumers on a completely different level.

Interactive advertising — from traditional quizzes to virtual and augmented reality — is actively used by some of the biggest brands in the world, including IKEA, Lego, Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Volkswagen and many others.

Demand for Digital Humans

So, what does this mean in terms of the future and which specific technologies we should watch out for? Leading brands in holographic technology are seeing more and more demand for digital humans. Some initial iterations were based on pre-recorded 3D holographic green-screen videos of real people, but they were not fully interactive. You might have seen demonstrations of this involving executives from Integrated Systems Europe or AVI-SPL.

With holography’s value having been well established, prospective clients soon began asking providers if it was possible to further develop this technology to create the possibility of a 3D holographic livestream. And, indeed, these capabilities are now starting to blossom. This aligns with brands and events increasingly looking to bring a higher level of personalization and interactivity while retaining the human look and feel.

But digital humans are just one piece of the interactivity puzzle. The options are endless. The key is to look at what you already have and build atop that. At this point, we are all in the Zoom and Teams era; they are so deeply integrated into our lives that we can’t live without them. At the same time, flatscreen images are just not the same as a 3D image or person in front of us.

Live 3D Holographic VC

This is why leading brands came up with the livestreaming feature for their technology. Therefore, I ask a simple question: Can live 3D holographic VC be that far away?

It all seems pretty simple, but transmitting the image is just one part of a complex solution. It’s necessary to enhance the holographic image with added layers and visual effects to ensure the hologram appears realistic. This is done to convince the human brain that the digitally streamed person is physically in front of them. The addition of these layers provides the magic moment…the moment when digital technology blends with reality and brings forth a digital and emotional connection. This simply wasn’t possible previously.

A similar thought process lies behind 3D-modeler solutions. Traditional forms of brand advertising aren’t delivering the look and feel that high-end brands are now looking for. A good example is car brands, which, for a long time, used 2D videos or static images. Now, however, these techniques are being replaced, regardless of how amazing the photography might be. Instead, leading brands are exploring the 3D-modeling world and providing the ability to rotate and add/remove layers with touch-free hand gestures.

While this is just the first iteration of these applications, there’s strong reason to believe that this will lead to even more customization and interactivity in this field.

This article originally appeared on MyTechDecisions’ sister-site CommercialIntegrator.com.

Kiryl Chykeyuk is CEO and co-founder of HYPERVSN.

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When I was asked to write a piece for the inaugural issue of the IMCCA’s Collaboration Today and Tomorrow on the future of technology and how it would shape our lives, I thought about how difficult a task that is. After all, few of us accurately forecasted how emerging technologies like the internet, the World Wide Web and ubiquitous videoconferencing would change our lives. And, if I could truly predict the future, then perhaps my time would be better spent in the stock market or with a lottery.

With that caveat in mind, what I can share are insights into the trends that Metrigy sees in its research, and how we expect them to impact the workplace over the next few years. Each year, we at Metrigy gather data from hundreds of companies including their three- to five-year plans for technology spending and deployment. Here are the areas where I expect to see significant growth and impact in the workforce, and in consumer engagement.

A Focus on Employee Experience

Employee experience has become a hot buzzword in the last year or so as companies look to figure out how to retain employees and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation no matter the work location. Employee experience initiatives typically fall into two distinct areas:

1. Understanding how employees engage with one another (and with customers) as well as implementing analytics and feedback mechanisms to enable management to understand employee happiness, job satisfaction and well-being.

Collaboration vendors are increasingly providing feedback mechanisms such as dashboards that allow employees to see how they are spending their days and insights into collaboration tool usage. Other vendors are delivering “voice of the employee” feedback tools as well as platforms to enable the building of cross-team connections, allow for collaborative goal setting, and ensure employees know what is happening within the organization.

2. Ensuring an optimal work experience through investments in high quality voice and video endpoints.

This includes the use of business-grade devices including headsets, speakerphones and cameras, along with management tools to allow individuals to customize how they use the devices. Here, AI can enable more than just noise cancelling by allowing for acoustic fencing, backlight compensation, and image enhancements.

Optimizing Collaboration Workflows

The last few years have seen organizations adopt a lot of different collaboration apps including videoconferencing, team messaging, virtual whiteboard, work management and more. However, in many cases those workplace collaboration apps exist in silos, and employees spend a lot of time moving between them.

In the future, these apps and capabilities will continue to converge allowing both internal and customer-facing engagement to happen within a work-hub, with appropriate security and governance controls, and with the ability for employees to leverage low and no-code tools to build their own workflows to optimize whatever it is that they do.

An Exploration of Augmented and Virtual Reality

AR and VR collaboration has been a topic of discussion ever since the launch of Second Life almost 20 years ago. Many companies have tried (and failed) to deliver solutions that would enable collaboration in virtual worlds, largely because the technology wasn’t easy to use, and because human beings generally prefer to communicate directly with one another than with avatars.

Still, a several use cases have gained traction, so has the use of AR and VR in the gaming world. Today, companies can choose from several solutions that provide virtual training and product demonstration capabilities that go beyond what one can deliver in a two-dimensional videoconference.

Vendors and enterprises are investing in building a presence in the metaverse that offers the potential of creating a truly interactive virtual world alongside the physical one. For remote employees, these types of engagement may offer significant benefits, especially in the form of content manipulation, training and the potential to leverage gaming to build social bonds with distant colleagues. While I’m not ready to proclaim that VR goggles will replace the meeting app, I’m increasingly convinced that there is a role for AR and VR applications for a growing number of use cases.

Lastly, the future is likely to be driven by the need for flexibility. Millions of people have found that they can effectively work remotely, and thus avoid the time (and cost) spent commuting. While COVID-19’s impact is diminishing, it is not gone, and the next variant of concern could be lurking just around the corner.

In our research, those companies who embrace work location choice and provide appropriate devices, management support, and employee feedback mechanisms are the ones that are realizing the most value for their collaboration investment today, and they are best positioned to deal with whatever comes along in the future.

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