Thursday, November 20, 2008:
The realXtend open source virtual reality platform adoption is accelerating, extending the support of an interconnected network of 3D virtual worlds with multi-user experiences. Nokia and the City of Oulu, Finland have joined the supporters of the realXtend project aimed at developing the world's best virtual world platform on an open source basis. The key developers are LudoCraft Ltd, a games studio, and Admino Technologies Ltd, specialised in scalable server technologies.
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"Nokia supports the realXtend project and objective of creating an open platform and interoperability for virtual worlds," said Jari Alvinen, director, compatibility and industry collaboration, Nokia. "realXtend has gained remarkable co-operation and adoption with other virtual world developers and solution providers. The large scale strategic development of this technology will spearhead virtual worlds for everyone."
Already known as a technology hub with world-class R&D resources, the City of Oulu, Finland has announced plans to use realXtend to fulfill the future technological needs of its citizens. Planned applications include using realXtend as a tool for developing the educational system in cooperation with the Oulu's 'School of the Future' project.
"Our strategy in Oulu is to support companies that combine technological expertise with cultural and artistic skills," said Matti Pennanen, mayor, City of Oulu, Finland. "Interactive content and creative industries are a part of our future mission. The City of Oulu already provides free wireless Internet access to citizens and visitors. With the creation of realXtend in Oulu, our region steps in the exciting frontier of virtual world technology."
"We will develop realXtend into direction of game engine that enables the creation of multiplayer games with competent performance, stability, reliability and audiovisual capabilities," says Tony Manninen, CEO, LudoCraft Ltd.
Applying virtual reality technology is limited only by one's imagination. With features such as highly customisable avatars, 3D objects, lights and shadows, scriptable teleports between worlds, voice chat, desktop application sharing and easy Web page integration; realXtend creates possibilities for a rich user experience rarely seen in a virtual world platform before. Exciting applications include virtual conferencing, collaborative workspaces, immersive education, 3D modeling and multi-player games.
"The realXtend team has made excellent progress in advancing the platform's graphics capabilities, which is an important requirement for the next generation of Immersive Education. I'm looking forward to sharing realXtend with members of the Immersive Education Initiative by making realXtend available on the Education Grid," said Aaron E. Walsh, director, the Grid Institute.
In the Immersive Education Initiative, there are now over 500 members. Members are primarily from universities, colleges, research institutes and kindergarten through 12th grade. In total, members reach several hundred thousand students.
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