The European Commission hosted a meeting of the Virtual and Augmented Reality Industrial Coalition, bringing together over 110 attendees from more than 80 private and public organisations for an intensive day of policy discussions.
Yvo Volman, a Director in DG CNECT, outlined the EU’s political priorities to participants, including the Competitiveness Compass, the possible creation of a future 28th regime as part of a new agenda for simplification aimed at making it easier for SMEs and startups, and the new Multiannual Financial Framework designed to simplify support for research and innovation.
Rehana Shwinninger-Ladak, together with Anne Bajart, respectively Head of Unit and deputy Head of Unit for Interactive Technologies, set the stage for Virtual Worlds partnership. The partnership aims to develop and promote a thriving industrial and end-user ecosystem in the EU. This ecosystem will encompass all aspects of the value chain, engaging with people and society and promoting active participation in these Virtual Worlds.
The European Commission then facilitated a debate among organisations focused on technological development and research and development. This involved entities specialising in XR, AR, VR, immersive technologies, universities, and research centres focusing on education and scientific advancements, companies and associations in various industry sectors, entities engaged in EU-funded or international initiatives, metaverse and emerging technologies, and organisations specialising in cutting-edge technology.
Over a hundred participants discussed topics in promising areas such as, but not limited to:
- immersion & visualisation
- intuitive real-time user interaction, standardisation & interoperability
- vertical challenges like digital twins
- logistics & industry
- healthcare
- culture
- media & arts
- education
This fruitful and highly participative event allowed the European Commission to gather insights and vision from both private and public entities for the SRIA (Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda) for the Partnership for Virtual Worlds.
Read more about the strategy on Virtual Worlds fit for people.