The BBC is continuously exploring the newest forms of entertainment, either through partnerships with companies or internally like BBC Reality Labs, a division of BBC R&D focussed on creating content in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Now BBC Worldwide Labs was decided to change from traditional corporate accelerator into an incubator of innovation looking for new and innovative ways of commercializing AR.
Due to the change the BBC has now opened up applications to UK and non-UK startups, scale-ups and established businesses, to help develop videogames and entertainment with an AR twist.
The BBC Worldwide Labs explains on its: “We would like to work with a dynamic and innovative company to create and distribute (after a successful trial), a range of fun and engaging Mixed Reality products connecting fans of our brands with their favorite characters and stories.
“As a minimum, the products should be commercially viable, reflect core principles of our brands and provide fun and engaging experience which extends enjoyment of our brands. Additional requirements include ability to published globally, be easily localised and available in multiple languages.
“The products should appeal to a wide range of audiences, years, and be accessible by a casual users of AR technology currently available, while still generating deep engagement.
“We are looking companies with AR products who can also work with us to develop AR concepts linked to our franchise brands. The brands we are focusing at the moment are Top Gear, BBC Earth, CBeebies and Doctor Who.”
If you’re interested in applying drop a note with a short intro and your AR show reel to LABSInfo@bbc.com or apply through the website here.
For those that haven’t yet seen any of the BBC’s immersive work why not check out VR fairy tale The Turning Forest for Google Daydream and Samsung Gear VR, or historical VR film Easter Rising: Voice of a Rebel, for the Oculus Rift and Gear VR. Then there’s always the BBC Taster VR App for Android and iOS, featuring content from BBC Three and Planet Earth II.
It’s certainly an interesting proposition, especially for fledgling AR firms looking to build up their reputation. As further details are released, VRFocus will keep you updated.
via Mint VR