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World first as new virtual reality lab opens in Bristol
The world’s first virtual reality ribbon cutting marked the official opening of the Bristol VR Lab.
Twenty startup businesses are already established in the landmark new facility above Prezzo on Anchor Square.
Wearing a headset with no real scissors in sight, West of England mayor Tim Bowles cut the virtual ribbon at the space that hopes to become a hub for both virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) skills and content.
is needed now More than ever
The Bristol VR Lab will bring together small businesses and individuals who will pool their collective knowledge and skills.
Its founding partners are UWE Bristol, the University of Bristol, Watershed and award-winning VR developer Opposable Group.
Examples of projects that are currently in development include a haptic chair that sends infrasonic vibrations through the body as you experience sound and motion in VR, and a new start-up company that produces 360-degree 3D virtual tours that seek to help people with autism break down perceptual and societal barriers.
Bristol VR Lab director Ben Trewhella, said: “The market for virtual and augmented reality is forecast to grow exponentially over the next five years.
“In delivering the vision of the Bristol VR Lab we will position Bristol as a centre of expertise and will create significant commercial opportunities and new businesses, providing competitive advantage in improved understanding, resource and exposure through the work of the Lab.”
For more information, visit www.bristolvrlab.com.
Main photo by Jon Craig
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