From Unity to the Metaverse & Building 3D Worlds W/ Aras Pranckevičius

Timothy Bates provides his perspectives on key 2023 technology topics based on decades of industry experience.    On AI, Bates notes the industry's transition towards human-centric models tailored for specific use cases versus generalized models, citing issues with bias. He contrasts corporate, group-specific, and individual models optimized for different needs.  Regarding automotive, Bates discusses digital twin benefits demonstrated at General Motors, like improving factor productivity by virtually validating manufacturing processes. He outlines the software integration disrupting vehicles to enable expanded in-car experiences and coherence with external ecosystems via protocols.  About the metaverse, Bates advocates for interoperability standards to connect virtual worlds, contrasting walled gardens. He sees promise in OpenXR for VR headsets and indicates metadata extensions may be required for engineering use cases.  Finally, Bates aims to expand computing access and skills to open professional opportunities for those with less privilege. He notes metaverse jobs could arise in new regions and Role of location and demographics as adoption increases. ==== Have any comments or questions? Email the show [email protected]   Want more information? Visit our website www.buildingtheopenmetaverse.org   And make sure you follow us on Linkedin for all of our show updates   https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtheopenmetaverse/ Building the Open Metaverse is a podcast hosted by Patrick Cozzi (Cesium) and Marc Petit (Epic Games) that invites a broad range of technical experts to share their insights on how the community is building the metaverse together. #BuildingTheOpenMetaversePodcast #MetaversePodcast #Metaverse

In this thought-provoking episode, acclaimed industrial designer Anne Asensio shares valuable perspectives from her pioneering career spanning automotive giants Renault and General Motors, to her current leadership role as Vice President of Design Experience at Dassault Systèmes.   The discussion opens with Asensio recounting her early fascination with using design to transform people's lives by reimagining their surroundings. She then traces key milestones, like designing the visionary Renault Scenic concept car in the early 1990s, which pioneered the crossover SUV segment. Later at General Motors, she led design for high-profile production vehicles including the new Camaro. Asensio then explains her passion for human-centered design, and what ultimately attracted her to Dassault Systèmes—the opportunity to apply her creative skills to shape virtual worlds and immersive experiences enabled by 3D, AI and metaverse technologies. She shares exciting examples of using virtual twins and simulations to experiment, iterate and test product, city and systemic design concepts rapidly. Additionally, Asensio discusses the urgent need for such virtual modeling capabilities to tackle sustainability challenges. She describes thought-provoking scenarios where people could potentially shift behaviors and industries through experiencing ideal eco-system concepts firsthand virtually. Her creativity also touches on using the metaverse for inclusive community participation in public policymaking. In her role as a leader at the influential World Design Organization, Asensio champions ethical, future-oriented design practices that improve lives. She calls for designers globally to actively contribute their optimistic visions to the open metaverse, leading the way in showing what better worlds could be possible across both virtual and physical realms. Throughout, her holistic passion for elevating human imagination and dignity shines through. The conversation ultimately conveys a sense of hope and possibility, underscoring the tremendous potential for design and emergent technologies to positively impact humanity and the planet. Asensio's trailblazing career and integral philosophy provide invaluable wisdom for aspiring designers worldwide. ==== Have any comments or questions? Email the show [email protected]   Want more information? Visit our website www.buildingtheopenmetaverse.org   And make sure you follow us on Linkedin for all of our show updates   https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtheopenmetaverse/ Building the Open Metaverse is a podcast hosted by Patrick Cozzi (Cesium) and Marc Petit (Epic Games) that invites a broad range of technical experts to share their insights on how the community is building the metaverse together. #BuildingTheOpenMetaversePodcast #MetaversePodcast #Metaverse

Aras Pranckevičius reminisces about his formative years at Unity, detailing the transition from a Mac-only platform to a gaming revolution with the advent of the iPhone. He critiques Unity's package management and advocates for keeping core functionality within the main codebase. Aras favors text-based programming languages, given their clarity compared to visual nodes. He delves into 3D file formats, underscoring the resilience of simpler formats like OBJ and PLY, and prefers GLTF over the complex USD, which lacks a clear specification. Aras introduces Gaussian splatting as a more editable and understandable alternative to NeRF, outlining his work on optimizing splat data size. He acknowledges the transformative impact of AI on programming but expects it will take years for the dust to settle. Aras ends by recognizing the significant advancements of Blender in the open-source space and expresses cautious optimism for the future of 3D on the web with technologies like WebGPU…==== Have any comments or questions? Email the show [email protected]   Want more information? Visit our website www.buildingtheopenmetaverse.org   And make sure you follow us on Linkedin for all of our show updates   https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtheopenmetaverse/ Building the Open Metaverse is a podcast hosted by Patrick Cozzi (Cesium) and Marc Petit (Epic Games) that invites a broad range of technical experts to share their insights on how the community is building the metaverse together. #BuildingTheOpenMetaversePodcast #MetaversePodcast #Metaverse

In this episode of the "Building the Open Metaverse" podcast, guest Yonathan shares his journey to becoming a pioneer in the metaverse through platforms like Roblox. He discusses how young people today are "metaverse native," immersed in virtual worlds and using avatars to socialize.    His company, Super Social, builds virtual experiences for brands on Roblox and Fortnite Creative. He sees these platforms emerging as leaders, with interoperability between them unlikely in the near future.  He believes virtual worlds will empower entrepreneurship for young people to build businesses and make money. His advice for entrepreneurs is to understand your "why," tap into your passion, and find your differentiator.    Yonathan also hosts the "Into the Metaverse" podcast to educate people about the opportunities of virtual worlds. He emphasizes the importance of consistency, understanding your audience, and bringing diverse voices. Ultimately, he hopes the metaverse will spread joy, self-expression, and advance humanity. ==== Have any comments or questions? Email the show [email protected]   Want more information? Visit our website www.buildingtheopenmetaverse.org   And make sure you follow us on Linkedin for all of our show updates   https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtheopenmetaverse/ Building the Open Metaverse is a podcast hosted by Patrick Cozzi (Cesium) and Marc Petit (Epic Games) that invites a broad range of technical experts to share their insights on how the community is building the metaverse together. #BuildingTheOpenMetaversePodcast #MetaversePodcast #Metaverse

This episode features Tino Millar, CEO of Move AI, a company aiming to make 3D animation more accessible. Millar outlines his background, including PhD research in material science and sports injuries, which sparked his interest in digitizing human motion.   He explains Move AI’s markerless mocap technology, which uses AI and computer vision to turn 2D video into 3D character animation. This contrasts with expensive legacy mocap that requires special studios and suits. Millar says their precision approaches optical mocap using only consumer cameras.   Applications span gaming, film, architecture and more. Miller argues 3D animation is a major 10B+ industry, but creation is complex and requires specialized skills. Move AI looks to greatly expand the market by making these tools easy for everyone. Millar discusses Move AI's trajectory, including their new app Move One for high-quality capture from a single camera. As CEO, he focuses on solving problems and product quality. Move AI has a driven, talented team united by their mission. Millar also reflects on lessons from past startups. ==== Have any comments or questions? Email the show [email protected]   Want more information? Visit our website www.buildingtheopenmetaverse.org   And make sure you follow us on Linkedin for all of our show updates   https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtheopenmetaverse/ Building the Open Metaverse is a podcast hosted by Patrick Cozzi (Cesium) and Marc Petit (Epic Games) that invites a broad range of technical experts to share their insights on how the community is building the metaverse together. #BuildingTheOpenMetaversePodcast #MetaversePodcast #Metaverse

In this episode of the Building the Open Metaverse podcast, Ken Russell and Corentin Wallez from the Google Chrome graphics team discuss using web browsers and technologies like WebGPU, WebGL, and WebAssembly to build an open and accessible metaverse.   They explain how new browser capabilities like WebGPU's compute shaders and multi-threading support can enable complex 3D experiences on par with console and mobile games. Russell and Wallez examine performance considerations like streaming assets and reducing security overhead. An open question is supporting multi-user experiences across origins while maintaining security.   The guests are optimistic that an open metaverse can be built using web principles like transparency and permissionless innovation. They see opportunities for blending languages like Rust, C++, JavaScript, and TypeScript. A key benefit of web tech is portability across devices. Russell and Wallez encourage industry collaboration on ethical guidelines and standards. ==== Have any comments or questions? Email the show [email protected]   Want more information? Visit our website www.buildingtheopenmetaverse.org   And make sure you follow us on Linkedin for all of our show updates   https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtheopenmetaverse/ Building the Open Metaverse is a podcast hosted by Patrick Cozzi (Cesium) and Marc Petit (Epic Games) that invites a broad range of technical experts to share their insights on how the community is building the metaverse together. #BuildingTheOpenMetaversePodcast #MetaversePodcast #Metaverse

In this episode of Building the Open Metaverse, hosts Patrick Cozzi and Marc Petit discuss artificial intelligence ethics, safety, and governance with attorney Liz Rothman. Rothman provides an overview of the key issues being debated regarding responsible AI development and use.   She explains that conversations are focused on three main areas - algorithmic bias and fairness, workforce impacts from automation, and existential risks from advanced AI. On the topic of bias, Rothman emphasizes the need for equity, transparency and privacy protections as AI can amplify discrimination and tracking. She notes that committees globally are trying to assess and plan for the transformative effects AI could have on human labor and jobs. Existentially, questions arise about human identity and agency if AI reaches more generalized intelligence.   According to Rothman, urgent current issues involve building trust, safety and privacy around AI systems, as synthetic media makes determining truth more difficult. She states that maintaining personal autonomy requires responsible innovation. Rothman advocates for transparency standards like documentation methods that expose AI model provenance and training data sourcing. However, she acknowledges commercial interests often prevent full transparency. The discussion covers intellectual property rules for AI-generated content, which vary between countries. While US law presently requires human authorship, the UK protects some AI output. Rothman suggests IP law could incentivize AI development if adapted with disclosure requirements rather than outright restrictions. However, problematic training data cannot be removed from models once deployed, posing challenges for liability.   Rothman expresses hope in rising international dialogues but concern that regulatory solutions are struggling to match the rapid pace of technological change. She highlights organizations pursuing multidisciplinary cooperation on AI ethics and governance, like XRSI and the Metaverse Standards Forum. While blockchain hype has affected cryptocurrency perceptions, Rothman sees potential benefits for digital identity and content provenance. She concludes AI oversight requires balancing innovation with ethical precautions.  ==== Have any comments or questions? Email the show [email protected]   Want more information? Visit our website www.buildingtheopenmetaverse.org   And make sure you follow us on Linkedin for all of our show updates   https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtheopenmetaverse/ Building the Open Metaverse is a podcast hosted by Patrick Cozzi (Cesium) and Marc Petit (Epic Games) that invites a broad range of technical experts to share their insights on how the community is building the metaverse together. #BuildingTheOpenMetaversePodcast #MetaversePodcast #Metaverse

In this episode of the Building the Open Metaverse podcast, hosts Marc Petit and Patrick Cozzi are joined by computer graphics legend Jim Blinn. Blinn recounts his pioneering work in CG, from developing bump mapping while a PhD student at University of Utah in the 1970s to producing animations for the Voyager spacecraft's flybys of Jupiter and Saturn at NASA JPL.   Blinn traces his journey from growing up fascinated by astronomy, animation and education, to falling into computer programming and graphics at University of Michigan. He recounts moving to Caltech and JPL, where through luck and persistence he got to work on animations for Carl Sagan's "Cosmos" series and the Annenberg Foundation's physics series "The Mechanical Universe.” Along the way Blinn met pioneers like Ivan Sutherland and inspired innovations like ray tracing. He reflects on always focusing on improving images with the tools at hand rather than waiting for better tech. Blinn also looks to the future, discussing the potential and limitations of VR, AI and the metaverse. He emphasizes the need for research to continue advancing graphics and for computer scientists to properly document their work. Overall, it's a fascinating insider perspective on the birth and evolution of computer graphics from one of its foremost founding fathers. Blinn imparts wisdom and humor drawn from a storied career at the forefront of CG. ==== Have any comments or questions? Email the show [email protected]   Want more information? Visit our website www.buildingtheopenmetaverse.org   And make sure you follow us on Linkedin for all of our show updates   https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtheopenmetaverse/ Building the Open Metaverse is a podcast hosted by Patrick Cozzi (Cesium) and Marc Petit (Epic Games) that invites a broad range of technical experts to share their insights on how the community is building the metaverse together. #BuildingTheOpenMetaversePodcast #MetaversePodcast #Metaverse

Bilawal Sidhu joins the podcast to discuss his background in emerging tech and experiences working at Google. Sidhu became interested in mixed realities at a young age when he saw visual effects being used to blend the physical and digital worlds in movies. This inspired him to learn 3D animation and visual effects software.   Later, Sidhu studied computer science and business at USC while continuing to flex his creative muscles. At Google, he worked on VR media, digital twins like Google Earth, and consumer products like Immersive View in Google Maps.   Sidhu shares lessons on embracing new platforms as a creator and finding viral content market fit. He recommends creators use AI to augment their skills rather than replace them. On ethical AI, he suggests regulating different models differently instead of blanket policies.   For mainstream AR/VR adoption, Sidhu points to the need for more headset install base. He's excited about spatial computing enhanced by natural language interactions courtesy of generative AI. Sidhu wants an all-in-one creative tool combining video, 3D and collaboration. He shouts out colleagues who supported his vision and his parents who enabled his creative pursuits.  ==== Have any comments or questions? Email the show [email protected]   Want more information? Visit our website www.buildingtheopenmetaverse.org   And make sure you follow us on Linkedin for all of our show updates   https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtheopenmetaverse/ Building the Open Metaverse is a podcast hosted by Patrick Cozzi (Cesium) and Marc Petit (Epic Games) that invites a broad range of technical experts to share their insights on how the community is building the metaverse together. #BuildingTheOpenMetaversePodcast #MetaversePodcast #Metaverse

In this episode, Hugo Swart from Qualcomm Technologies joins hosts Marc Petit and Patrick Cozzi to discuss Qualcomm's work in XR and the metaverse.   Hugo shares his career journey, starting in wireless technology in the early 2000s during the transition from desktop to mobile computing. He helped develop some of the first standalone VR headsets in 2016 using Qualcomm's Snapdragon processor. Since then, Qualcomm has launched over 80 XR devices using their technology.   Hugo explains Qualcomm's role as an ecosystem enabler, developing the silicon, connectivity, reference designs and tools needed for partners to build XR hardware and software. Key focus areas include perception technologies like tracking and environment understanding, which allow for more immersive experiences.   For the metaverse vision to become reality, Hugo emphasizes the need for open standards and interoperability. He sees the recently announced Meta Quest Pro and Apple Vision AR headsets as validating the market potential. Products like Meta's Quest 3 will help make immersive computing accessible to more consumers.   Hugo remains optimistic that we'll see major advances in AR, VR and MR hardware over the next 2-3 years. While sleek, lightweight AR glasses are still 5+ years away, he sees a path for incremental improvements across smart glasses, mobile AR integration and other form factors in the near term.  ==== Have any comments or questions?   Email the show [email protected] Want more information? Visit our website www.buildingtheopenmetaverse.org And make sure you follow us on Linkedin for all of our show updates   https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtheopenmetaverse