Virtual reality (VR) communication platform AltspaceVR launched in February this year, aiming to bring VR users together. Today the company has announced plans to take this idea further with the launch of Frontrow. AltspaceVR’s new technology looks to give everyone a front row seat to events, and this tomorrow this will be put to the test with a live performance by acclaimed comedian, beatboxer and DJ, Reggie Watts.
With FrontRow, AltspaceVR aims to bring thousands of people to the event no matter where they’re located in the world. Rather than live-streaming a show like NextVR, Frontrow mirrors performers’ avatars to all the audience locations. The performer’s gestures, movements and voice are instantly shared in all the performance spaces.
“FrontRow allows everyone who attends to have a front row seat. Do you want to have a private party and attend the show with just your friends? You can do that,” said Eric Romo, CEO of AltspaceVR. “Do you want to enjoy the show just by yourself? You can do that. Do you want to have the traditional public event experience with 50 new friends? You can do that, too.”
“Working with AltspaceVR has allowed us to create a digital stage, bringing our favourite comedians to an audience that was unimaginable even a few months ago,” said Brett Kushner, Director of JASH VR Studio. “Taking shows that might normally play in a 100-seat theatre in Los Angeles and bringing them to an infinite-seat theater with a worldwide audience is proof that there’s a global appetite for quality comedic experiences.”
Reggie Watts’ show will begin on 26th May, 2016, 8pm PT / 4am GMT. To take part download AltspaceVR’s app through Google Play for Google Cardboard, Oculus Store for Samsung’s Gear VR, Oculus Home for Oculus Rift or Steam for HTC Vive, and register here.
VRFocus will continue its coverage of AltspaceVR, reporting back with any further announcements.
