BT is launching Immersive Spaces, a 5G-enabled solution that simulates real-life situations to improve business learning and development.
The solution is launched in partnership with immersive learning spaces provider Immersive Interactive, and the rooms are connected to the EE mobile network. The interactive environments can be simulated within an internal or external room or mobile unit, and the rooms are set up using cameras and HD projectors to bring a fully 360-degree experience to life across the space's walls and floor.
Each space includes a library of more than 3,000 virtual scenarios, real-life environments, games and training experiences. The spaces are also compatible with VR, AR and XR technologies to empower the user experience. Users can interact with real-life or imagined scenarios and incorporate sensory interactivity, evolving the virtual experience with lights, sounds, and smells.
Alex Foster, Director at Division X – BT's Business Innovation team, commented: "Immersive Spaces bring together EE's unrivalled connectivity with the very best immersive tech – combining the real and digital worlds to create new benefits for business and public sector organisations."
This technology has the potential to be a game changer for training and development in any industry. Putting the power of immersive content into the hands of customers allows people to experience learning in a completely new way that is targeted specifically to their needs – which can significantly improve information retention and problem-solving skills."
Immersive Spaces' versatility intends to provide use cases across multiple industries. BT's product announcement cited early demand for training and development use cases across education, healthcare, retail, transport, tourism, construction and sport with immersive experiences inside operating theatres, buses, warehouses, supermarkets, building sites and arenas.
BT mentioned one specific use case as training paramedics in a simulated roadside accident scene or hospital ward.
"It can also enrich remote sales experiences," Foster added, a key selling point for many businesses, "and transport people virtually to any location, anywhere, during any point in history."
Immersive Spaces is the first solution in the UK to enable customers to edit and create their interactive content, with the option to film, edit and live stream their own videos using a 360-degree camera.
Being fully supported by EE's 4G and 5G network, users can live stream experiences from a real-life location into the Immersive Space. They can also download and store content over 4G or fixed fibre.
End Users Already Reaping the Rewards
There are several Immersive Spaces customers already taking advantage of the solution. These include Cadoxton Primary School in South Wales and Borders College in Galashiels, Scotland. They are leveraging the technology to create immersive classrooms.
