Adobe plans to use algorithms to transform monoscopic, 360 videos into a “true” VR experiences. While consumer-grade spherical cameras can shoot 360 video, it does not include the ability to “lean” into the video, something that is commonly known as six degrees of freedom. The company hopes to use algorithms to develop this technology, as cameras that are capable of shooting video with 6DoF can be cost-prohibitive. — VARIETY
Musicians are increasingly using 360-video and AR to reach new fans who are discovering music on their smartphones and tablets. As we've mentioned in previous issues of Inside VR & AR, virtual band Gorillaz has introduced VR and AR experiences to introduce their upcoming album Humanz. Alternative group Young the Giant shot a live performance at the YouTube Space in Los Angeles with 360 cameras. ”We're beginning to see not only the ability to take your music and your live concert streams and your VR and 360 experiences with you on mobile devices, but to merge together the two in really unique ways to provide really fantastic experiences for fans," said Vivien Lewitt, YouTube's global head of artist relations, to the Associated Press. — AP
Munich-based Icaros GmbH has developed a VR exercise machine that delivers a core workout by making it seem like users are flying or deep-ocean diving. The machine costs about $10,000 after shipping and other costs and has been installed in about 200 gym and entertainment centers around the world. The company is working on a lower priced unit for home use, which will retail at about $2,000. Icaro’s founder Johannes School hopes VR will keep people excited about working out. — BLOOMBERG
An AR app is helping users with their asthma treatment. Singapore-based Mundipharma has introduced breatherite, an AR app that uses the iPhone’s front-facing camera, accelerometer, gyroscope and microphone to evaluate users' inhaler techniques and recommends adjustments. The app is not available in the U.S. as of press time, only in Singapore. — NEXT REALITY
Obscura Digital, a San Francisco-based VR studio, showed off a 120-square-foot VR dome at Coachella. Unlike traditional VR experiences, viewers did not have to don a headset. Using 15 projectors and 108 speakers, attendees see giant neon caterpillars, alien landings, and geometric shapes pulsing around them in the dome. The studio spent three months developing and testing the show to ensure that viewers felt fully immersed. You can see a 360-video of the exhibit here. — WIRED
Have a story or tip you'd like to share to our Inside VR & AR team? Reply to this email to share!
Did we get anything wrong or miss a story? We realize that many of our readers are smarter and more informed than we are – so please hit reply and let us know when we miss something!