Observed Signal · Jun 19, 2024 · Strategic Investment · Source: Tech.eu · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Positive
BBC Invests £500,000 in Virtual Streaming Startup Condense
BBC's investment arm BBC Ventures has invested £500,000 in Bristol-based virtual streaming company Condense. As part of the deal, BBC will partner with Condense to deploy its technology within the New Music Portal, an initiative designed to attract younger audiences through virtual, game-like 3D online environments. Audiences will be able to experience live gigs on laptops or mobile devices without needing VR headsets or spatial computing hardware. Condense's capture system tracks an artist's movements in a dedicated capture area and converts the performance live into a 3D simulation, allowing viewers to watch from any angle inside a virtual venue. Artist Sam Tomkins demonstrated the concept with his own VR gig. Condense's CEO Nick Fellingham said the partnership positions BBC audiences at the forefront of music fandom in an era where people can come together in-game to experience live music.
BBC's investment signals growing broadcaster interest in immersive virtual music experiences and game-like 3D environments to engage younger audiences, relevant to media owners and streaming innovation.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- BBC's investment arm BBC Ventures invested £500,000 in Bristol-based virtual streaming company Condense.
- BBC will partner with Condense to use its technology within the New Music Portal, an initiative aimed at younger audiences.
- The New Music Portal lets audiences experience live gigs on laptop or mobile without VR or spatial computing headsets.
- Condense's capture system converts live performances into real-time 3D simulations streamed into virtual venues.
- Artist Sam Tomkins demonstrated the concept with his own VR gig.
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