AR AND VR - WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF IMMERSIVE TECH ENTERTAINMENT

Since the explosion of Pokémon Go, Snapchat filters, the Oculus Rift and mixed reality environments, applications of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have risen in the public consciousness across the globe.In this article, we’ll explore exactly what the terms AR and VR mean, their applications to entertainment, and how brands, business and events agencies can get the most out of immersive technology-aided experiences.No longer reserved for the space age technologies used exclusively in science fiction movies, augmented reality and virtual reality are a very real part of today’s tech scene, especially when it comes to event and corporate entertainment.While our minds might turn immediately to gaming when we think of these exciting immersive technologies, many concepts are proving that there are endless ways in which we can use AR and VR to enhance the experience for events and entertainment - from behind the scenes sneak previews, to product demonstration, virtual attendance and blurring fantasy and reality.

Spotlight

Caspian One

Caspian One provide contract, permanent and search technology staffing services to the Broadcast, Media and Entertainment industry. Since 2004 we’ve placed 1,000+ professionals in mid to senior-level positions at over 150 UK & European clients - including broadcasters, content owners, telco’s, technology manufacturers, service providers, system integrators and software firms.

OTHER ARTICLES
Technologies, Virtualization

Discord: A Novel Medium for B2B Marketing

Article | August 2, 2022

Discord is a real-time chat platform where anyone with a community can interact. Users can talk to others in the community on special channels and get invites to join different servers. Many people prefer to reach out to online customers through social media, but messaging apps like Discord have 20% more monthly active users than traditional social media platforms. (Business Insider) Discord generates revenue through premium subscriptions and game distribution. It does not use advertisements. However, it can help marketers through its community that grows with video, voice, text communication and more. Let us look at how: Helps Build a Moderated Community You can set up a Discord server as a moderated social discussion platform. Create different channels based on your audience’s preference and allow them to bond. And as your community grows, so will the popularity of your business. Word-of-mouth marketing is still very effective. Connects Your Brand with Like-minded Audience You can also meet others who share your interests on various Discord servers. When you know what you're looking for, finding relevant servers is simple. Check with your team members, and your community, and join those groups. There, you'll meet other business owners and pursue collaboration opportunities. Allows Sharing Relevant Industry Content Share your website articles and other industry updates on Discord. You can take the advantage of your employees’ social media presence because they are linked to a single server. They'll spread the word about the articles through other Discord servers and their personal social media accounts. It will assist you in gaining authority among your target audience. Another way to market your company is to post branded memes, GIFs, and funny screenshots. Helps Offer Great Customer Service People expect prompt service, and because Discord delivers messages in real-time, you can address issues as they arise. You can easily send direct messages to members and have private conversations with them. Parting Words Although Discord is primarily a messaging app for individuals, it also has many advantages for B2B marketing. Discord is ideal for community management and true engagement.

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Virtualization

Instagram continues to perform strongly despite inconsistent brand identity

Article | June 21, 2021

Over the last few months Instagram has done its best to capitalise on the latest social media success tactics, often at the cost of its own original user proposition. The photo-sharing app for friends now offers Reels, imitating TikTok’s success. It has rolled out an option to hide Likes, the iconic feature which has characterised social media as a whole since inception. And it now is introducing ‘suggested posts’ to users’ feeds, sorted by topics a profile states they are interested in – potentially putting these ahead of photos and videos shared by profiles they actually follow. Directly mimicking TikTok, this seems to diverge very little in practice from hashtags, which are its original discovery feature. Instead, it seems to want to emulate the usability which younger users are familiar with from TikTok, in order to entice them to increase their Instagram engagement.

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Technologies

4 Stocks To Buy To Invest in Virtual Reality

Article | February 14, 2022

The virtual reality market has been hailed as the "next big thing" for decades, but VR has repeatedly disappointed consumers with mediocre hardware products and software experiences. But in recent years, a wave of refined devices narrowed the gap between consumer expectations and reality. The VR market's future has yet to be written, but investors who believe in this budding market should consider buying these four tech stocks. Sony's PlayStation VR is the best-selling VR headset in the world with over 5 million shipments since its launch in October 2016. That only represents a sliver of Sony's installed base of 110 million PS4s, but that foothold has encouraged developers to produce more stand-alone VR games and add-on experiences for PS4 games.

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Should You Buy A PSVR In 2020?

Article | April 16, 2020

At 5+ million units sold, Sony’s PlayStation VR (PSVR) is thought to be the most successful VR headset on the market. The kit’s had a great run since launch in 2016, but should you buy a PSVR in 2020? Just under two years ago, we stated that you should “definitely” buy a PSVR in holiday promotions. The price, paired with a growing library of games, made it an easy recommendation. But this industry moves quickly and there are a lot of new factors that complicate the question of if PSVR remains a worthy purchase.

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Spotlight

Caspian One

Caspian One provide contract, permanent and search technology staffing services to the Broadcast, Media and Entertainment industry. Since 2004 we’ve placed 1,000+ professionals in mid to senior-level positions at over 150 UK & European clients - including broadcasters, content owners, telco’s, technology manufacturers, service providers, system integrators and software firms.

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Applications

CORSAIR Launches K70 CORE, The New Standard for Mainstream Gaming Keyboards

Business Wire | October 25, 2023

CORSAIR, a world leader in high-performance gear for gamers and content creators, today announced the launch of a new keyboard that delivers premium play for every gamer: the K70 CORE. Debuting with CORSAIR MLX Red linear mechanical switches, the K70 CORE offers a refined playing and typing experience in a full-size profile. Whether you’re a casual player or an aspiring esports pro, your ambition starts with K70 CORE. K70 CORE introduces CORSAIR MLX Red linear switches, an ultra-responsive mechanical switch that offers smooth, satisfying keypresses ideally suited for keyboard enthusiasts and gamers. Factory pre-lubrication ensures that each keystroke exhibits silky-smooth travel, and switches are tightly constructed to reduce stem wobble. Along with CORSAIR OPX optical and MGX magnetic switches, CORSAIR Reds round out the lineup of original CORSAIR mechanical switches that give discerning players a trio of fantastic options. Surrounding the switches are two layers of premium sound dampening foam, eliminating annoying pings and clacks that take you out of the game. Instead, you’ll enjoy softened acoustics that make gaming sound as good as it feels. The K70 CORE makes it easy to personalize your play. More than just a volume knob, the keyboard’s multi-function rotary dial can adjust RGB brightness, scroll through webpages, and zoom. Next to the dial is a programmable button for controlling media with ease. CORSAIR iCUE software unlocks the keyboard’s full power, granting you the ability to customize per-key RGB backlighting, program macros, remap keys, and more. Beyond superior sound and feel, the K70 CORE delivers on high-caliber durability and design. CORSAIR Red switches reside in a robust aluminum top plate and topped by resilient double-shot keycaps. This bolstered construction provides you peace of mind to play freely, knowing your keyboard won’t quit. With such tremendous performance at a tidy price, the K70 CORE line empowers gamers to ambitiously play, win, and have fun. Availability, Warranty, and Pricing The CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard is available immediately from the CORSAIR webstore and the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized online retailers and distributors. The CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard is backed by a two-year warranty, alongside the CORSAIR worldwide customer service and technical support network. For up-to-date pricing of the CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard, please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.

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Technologies

AviaGames Unveils New Brand Identity to Reflect Enhanced Corporate Vision and Accelerated Growth Aspirations

PR Newswire | October 19, 2023

AviaGames, creator of the award-winning "Bingo Tour" app and Pocket7Games social competition platform, today unveiled its new corporate brand identity, Avia (ah-vi-ah). The evolution to the new Avia brand identity underscores the company's growth aspirations and innovative vision helping drive the brand to where it is today and towards the future to potential entertainment applications. Enhancing the social competition gaming experience for players of all skill levels, from casual to hardcore gaming enthusiasts, Avia remains focused on providing quick, fun and rewarding gameplay in an inclusive environment, while always looking for new ways to improve and deliver more games that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.1 "Starting as an idea in a garage just a few years back, it is surreal to think about how far AviaGames has come, and I look forward to what's ahead for Avia, our team and community of players. At Avia, we've always believed that everyone has a competitive spirit, and our goal remains to unleash the joy of competition in everyone," said Vickie Chen, CEO and founder, Avia. "Avia has always been the go-to destination for casual competitive mobile gaming and this new chapter represents our commitment to staying fun, fresh and innovative while providing our players from around the world with the best possible interactive gaming experience." An expression of the company's boldness, enthusiasm, inclusivity, and confidence, the new brand identity comes at an important time for Avia. Positioning itself for the future as the gaming industry experiences explosive growth generating revenues of $187.7 billion in 2023, with mobile gaming accounting for the highest share of revenues, according to Newzoo. Quick to play and quick to win, Avia's gaming titles are designed for people who love competition, but don't desire a steep learning curve. Avia's core mission is focused on ensuring that everyone, employees and players, feels supported in achieving their goals, Avia seeks to build a culture where all players feel safe and have fun, and employees feel comfortable to contribute and act on their ideas. This philosophy of support and inclusion is what enables Avia to continue to enhance its Pocket7Games platform and individual titles to deliver fresh and exciting competitive mobile games that everyone can enjoy.

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Media and Broadcasting

HyperX is Official Sponsor of TwitchCon: Experience the Ultimate Streamer Station Powered by HyperX and OMEN

PR Newswire | October 17, 2023

HyperX, the gaming peripherals team at HP Inc. and brand leader in gaming and esports, along with OMEN Gaming, today announced its role as the Official Sponsor of the TwitchCon Streamer Station, including a planned special appearance of Zedd, global music artist and HyperX ambassador at the streamer station. This unique collaboration between HyperX and HP OMEN offers TwitchCon attendees the opportunity to experience the latest HyperX products designed for gaming streamers and content creators, along with cutting-edge OMEN PC and monitor products. Also taking front stage at TwitchCon is HyperX’s annual talent program Queued Up, showcasing emerging streamers and innovative streaming solutions with special voting for the next class of 2024. Zedd, global music artist, producer and HyperX ambassador, is planned for a special guest appearance Saturday, October 21 at the HyperX Streamer Lounge. As a global HyperX ambassador, Zedd will be connecting with fans and celebrating his love for gaming. The TwitchCon Streamer Station will feature a range of products for attendees to test out on the show floor, including the HyperX Vision S Webcam, delivering quality 4K video and low light performance, the HyperX Audio Mixer Audio Interface, designed for mixing multiple audio inputs, and the Cloud III headset, engineered for supreme comfort, audio performance and durability. In addition, OMEN PCs and monitors will be available at each station, adding to the experience and allowing attendees to hone their streaming prowess during the event. Daily sponsored live streams will be broadcasted straight from the Streamer Station, spotlighting gaming streamers and content creators from the HyperX ambassador lineup. “HyperX is excited to join TwitchCon this year as the official sponsor of the Streamer Station, giving visitors the opportunity to try out our new gaming streamer products,” said Ryan Romeos, director of marketing, HyperX. “The HyperX and OMEN collaboration at TwitchCon demonstrates HyperX’s continued support and dedication to the content creating community and efforts towards investing in new ways to improve gaming streamer and content creator experiences.” HyperX is also highlighting Queued Up at TwitchCon, an annual talent showcase program highlighting emerging streamers. A special voting period will take place allowing fans to cast their votes for their favorite streamer, who may then become part of the esteemed Top 5 of Queued Up 2023. The Top 5 will be revealed on the HyperX Twitch livestream on November 8th. For additional details, please visit the Queued Up landing page. In addition, HyperX plans to spotlight two new products designed for the streaming community that were recently announced in October. These products are the HyperX Vision S Webcam with 4K resolution and low lighting features and the HyperX Audio Mixer Audio Interface that allows creators to manage XLR microphones and other audio inputs used during gaming streams and creating content. Plus, professional-quality HyperX ProCast XLR microphones will be available to see and test during the show. Taking place Oct. 20 – 22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center – West Hall, TwitchCon 2023 show attendees are encouraged to visit the Streamer Station to explore the latest streaming equipment from HyperX and OMEN. By combining the power of HyperX and OMEN gaming brands, HP Inc. aims to elevate content development for gaming creators and streamers everywhere. For more information on HyperX products, visit hyperx.com. About HyperX For 20 years, HyperX’s mission has been to develop gaming solutions for every type of gamer and the company is consistently recognized for delivering products that provide superb comfort, aesthetics, performance, and reliability. Under the tagline of “WE’RE ALL GAMERS,” HyperX gaming headsets, keyboards, mice, USB microphones, and console accessories are the choice of everyday gamers as well as celebrity ambassadors, pro gamers, tech enthusiasts, and overclockers worldwide because they meet the most stringent product specifications and are built with best-in-class components. For more information, please go to www.hyperx.com. About HP HP Inc. is a technology company that believes one thoughtful idea has the power to change the world. Its product and service portfolio of personal systems, printers, and 3D printing solutions helps bring these ideas to life. HyperX and the HyperX logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of HP Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All registered trademarks and trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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Applications

CORSAIR Launches K70 CORE, The New Standard for Mainstream Gaming Keyboards

Business Wire | October 25, 2023

CORSAIR, a world leader in high-performance gear for gamers and content creators, today announced the launch of a new keyboard that delivers premium play for every gamer: the K70 CORE. Debuting with CORSAIR MLX Red linear mechanical switches, the K70 CORE offers a refined playing and typing experience in a full-size profile. Whether you’re a casual player or an aspiring esports pro, your ambition starts with K70 CORE. K70 CORE introduces CORSAIR MLX Red linear switches, an ultra-responsive mechanical switch that offers smooth, satisfying keypresses ideally suited for keyboard enthusiasts and gamers. Factory pre-lubrication ensures that each keystroke exhibits silky-smooth travel, and switches are tightly constructed to reduce stem wobble. Along with CORSAIR OPX optical and MGX magnetic switches, CORSAIR Reds round out the lineup of original CORSAIR mechanical switches that give discerning players a trio of fantastic options. Surrounding the switches are two layers of premium sound dampening foam, eliminating annoying pings and clacks that take you out of the game. Instead, you’ll enjoy softened acoustics that make gaming sound as good as it feels. The K70 CORE makes it easy to personalize your play. More than just a volume knob, the keyboard’s multi-function rotary dial can adjust RGB brightness, scroll through webpages, and zoom. Next to the dial is a programmable button for controlling media with ease. CORSAIR iCUE software unlocks the keyboard’s full power, granting you the ability to customize per-key RGB backlighting, program macros, remap keys, and more. Beyond superior sound and feel, the K70 CORE delivers on high-caliber durability and design. CORSAIR Red switches reside in a robust aluminum top plate and topped by resilient double-shot keycaps. This bolstered construction provides you peace of mind to play freely, knowing your keyboard won’t quit. With such tremendous performance at a tidy price, the K70 CORE line empowers gamers to ambitiously play, win, and have fun. Availability, Warranty, and Pricing The CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard is available immediately from the CORSAIR webstore and the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized online retailers and distributors. The CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard is backed by a two-year warranty, alongside the CORSAIR worldwide customer service and technical support network. For up-to-date pricing of the CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard, please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.

Read More

Technologies

AviaGames Unveils New Brand Identity to Reflect Enhanced Corporate Vision and Accelerated Growth Aspirations

PR Newswire | October 19, 2023

AviaGames, creator of the award-winning "Bingo Tour" app and Pocket7Games social competition platform, today unveiled its new corporate brand identity, Avia (ah-vi-ah). The evolution to the new Avia brand identity underscores the company's growth aspirations and innovative vision helping drive the brand to where it is today and towards the future to potential entertainment applications. Enhancing the social competition gaming experience for players of all skill levels, from casual to hardcore gaming enthusiasts, Avia remains focused on providing quick, fun and rewarding gameplay in an inclusive environment, while always looking for new ways to improve and deliver more games that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.1 "Starting as an idea in a garage just a few years back, it is surreal to think about how far AviaGames has come, and I look forward to what's ahead for Avia, our team and community of players. At Avia, we've always believed that everyone has a competitive spirit, and our goal remains to unleash the joy of competition in everyone," said Vickie Chen, CEO and founder, Avia. "Avia has always been the go-to destination for casual competitive mobile gaming and this new chapter represents our commitment to staying fun, fresh and innovative while providing our players from around the world with the best possible interactive gaming experience." An expression of the company's boldness, enthusiasm, inclusivity, and confidence, the new brand identity comes at an important time for Avia. Positioning itself for the future as the gaming industry experiences explosive growth generating revenues of $187.7 billion in 2023, with mobile gaming accounting for the highest share of revenues, according to Newzoo. Quick to play and quick to win, Avia's gaming titles are designed for people who love competition, but don't desire a steep learning curve. Avia's core mission is focused on ensuring that everyone, employees and players, feels supported in achieving their goals, Avia seeks to build a culture where all players feel safe and have fun, and employees feel comfortable to contribute and act on their ideas. This philosophy of support and inclusion is what enables Avia to continue to enhance its Pocket7Games platform and individual titles to deliver fresh and exciting competitive mobile games that everyone can enjoy.

Read More

Media and Broadcasting

HyperX is Official Sponsor of TwitchCon: Experience the Ultimate Streamer Station Powered by HyperX and OMEN

PR Newswire | October 17, 2023

HyperX, the gaming peripherals team at HP Inc. and brand leader in gaming and esports, along with OMEN Gaming, today announced its role as the Official Sponsor of the TwitchCon Streamer Station, including a planned special appearance of Zedd, global music artist and HyperX ambassador at the streamer station. This unique collaboration between HyperX and HP OMEN offers TwitchCon attendees the opportunity to experience the latest HyperX products designed for gaming streamers and content creators, along with cutting-edge OMEN PC and monitor products. Also taking front stage at TwitchCon is HyperX’s annual talent program Queued Up, showcasing emerging streamers and innovative streaming solutions with special voting for the next class of 2024. Zedd, global music artist, producer and HyperX ambassador, is planned for a special guest appearance Saturday, October 21 at the HyperX Streamer Lounge. As a global HyperX ambassador, Zedd will be connecting with fans and celebrating his love for gaming. The TwitchCon Streamer Station will feature a range of products for attendees to test out on the show floor, including the HyperX Vision S Webcam, delivering quality 4K video and low light performance, the HyperX Audio Mixer Audio Interface, designed for mixing multiple audio inputs, and the Cloud III headset, engineered for supreme comfort, audio performance and durability. In addition, OMEN PCs and monitors will be available at each station, adding to the experience and allowing attendees to hone their streaming prowess during the event. Daily sponsored live streams will be broadcasted straight from the Streamer Station, spotlighting gaming streamers and content creators from the HyperX ambassador lineup. “HyperX is excited to join TwitchCon this year as the official sponsor of the Streamer Station, giving visitors the opportunity to try out our new gaming streamer products,” said Ryan Romeos, director of marketing, HyperX. “The HyperX and OMEN collaboration at TwitchCon demonstrates HyperX’s continued support and dedication to the content creating community and efforts towards investing in new ways to improve gaming streamer and content creator experiences.” HyperX is also highlighting Queued Up at TwitchCon, an annual talent showcase program highlighting emerging streamers. A special voting period will take place allowing fans to cast their votes for their favorite streamer, who may then become part of the esteemed Top 5 of Queued Up 2023. The Top 5 will be revealed on the HyperX Twitch livestream on November 8th. For additional details, please visit the Queued Up landing page. In addition, HyperX plans to spotlight two new products designed for the streaming community that were recently announced in October. These products are the HyperX Vision S Webcam with 4K resolution and low lighting features and the HyperX Audio Mixer Audio Interface that allows creators to manage XLR microphones and other audio inputs used during gaming streams and creating content. Plus, professional-quality HyperX ProCast XLR microphones will be available to see and test during the show. Taking place Oct. 20 – 22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center – West Hall, TwitchCon 2023 show attendees are encouraged to visit the Streamer Station to explore the latest streaming equipment from HyperX and OMEN. By combining the power of HyperX and OMEN gaming brands, HP Inc. aims to elevate content development for gaming creators and streamers everywhere. For more information on HyperX products, visit hyperx.com. About HyperX For 20 years, HyperX’s mission has been to develop gaming solutions for every type of gamer and the company is consistently recognized for delivering products that provide superb comfort, aesthetics, performance, and reliability. Under the tagline of “WE’RE ALL GAMERS,” HyperX gaming headsets, keyboards, mice, USB microphones, and console accessories are the choice of everyday gamers as well as celebrity ambassadors, pro gamers, tech enthusiasts, and overclockers worldwide because they meet the most stringent product specifications and are built with best-in-class components. For more information, please go to www.hyperx.com. About HP HP Inc. is a technology company that believes one thoughtful idea has the power to change the world. Its product and service portfolio of personal systems, printers, and 3D printing solutions helps bring these ideas to life. HyperX and the HyperX logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of HP Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All registered trademarks and trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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Events