🕶️ When Skincare meets VR Experiences

PLUS: ‘Samsung Glasses' Trademark Filed In The UK, How Silicon Valley reunited Sam Altman and OpenAI

Good morning!

As the dust settles from Sam Altman's dismissal, the realm of VR technology continues to astound us, gaining prominence across various industries. Now, you can indulge in a skincare and spa treatment through an immersive VR experience designed to promote relaxation.

Today’s Topics:

  • 💆‍♀️ VR Experiences are being used in SPAs

  • 👓 ‘Samsung Glasses' Trademark Filed In The UK

Reading time: 3min

💆‍♀️ VR Experiences are being used in SPAs

Courtesy by Xydrobe

British immersive VR company Xydrobe is revolutionizing phygital retail with its immersive experiences, challenging the lackluster history of blending physical and digital elements

In collaboration with Dr. Barbara Sturm, a pioneer in anti-inflammatory skincare, Xydrobe introduces "PAUSE," a haute health happening that seamlessly merges low-level immersive theater, virtual reality, and spa therapy.

Details:

  • Xydrobe specializes in creating multisensory immersive experiences for luxury brands, utilizing VR within spherical fiberglass pods equipped with advanced tech like a pro-level VR headset, surround sound audio, and atmospheric effects 🎧.

  • PAUSE is designed to be a holistic immersion, incorporating gentle theatrical elements 🎭 to set the mood before visitors enter the VR pod. 

  • The experience encompasses breathwork, sensory stimuli, and a virtual journey, providing a transformative escape coupled with infrared light therapy as an integral part of the spa treatment 🧴.

  • The session costs £159/$198 💷 for 50 minutes, attracting approximately 70 people daily. Xydrobe plans to operate from an affluent location in London's Mayfair for the next three years.

Our thoughts: Resembling the iconic "The Sphere" in Las Vegas, PAUSE is the perfect destination for its devoted customers seeking an escape from reality. The evolution of VR into industries far beyond its initial use case continues to be a fascinating trend, demonstrating its versatility and appeal across diverse sectors

Read more about Xydrobe experiences here.

🕶️ 'Samsung Glasses' Trademark Filed In The UK

Courtesy by Samsung

Samsung has officially filed a trademark for 'Samsung Glasses' in the UK, according to records on the official UK government website 🔍. Approved and registered on November 10, the trademark covers a broad range of categories, including virtual reality headsets, augmented reality headsets, headphones, smartphones, and smart glasses 🕶️.

Details:

  • Samsung's filing leaves room for speculation due to the wide range of product categories, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact nature of 'Samsung Glasses' 🤔.

  • In February, Samsung announced its collaboration with Google and Qualcomm 🤝to develop an XR headset, powered by a new variant of Android and a powerful Qualcomm chipset.

  • Speculations suggest that Samsung's headset could compete with Apple Vision Pro, potentially priced around $2000, with plans for an announcement in late 2024 and a limited initial release in December 2024 📆.

  • While AR glasses seem unlikely due to the early stage of the technology, non-AR smart glasses similar to Meta's 👓 recent launch or Chinese startups' offerings appear more plausible.

Our thoughts: Samsung's trademark filing hints at the company's foray into new tech territories. The branding choice, 'Samsung Glasses,' instead of 'Galaxy Glasses,' suggests a potential divergence from Samsung's existing consumer offerings. This move aligns with recent trends in smart glasses development, indicating Samsung's intention to carve its niche in this evolving market 🚀

Read more about it here.

What We’re Reading This Week

As you might have heard, the ex-OpenAI founder Sam Altman was initially dismissed by the board and later reinstated following significant protests from OpenAI's employees. But what exactly happened?

The following Financial Times article extensively covers the events, detailing how it unfolded and discussing the potential impact on OpenAI's future. As ChatGPT and generative AI have become increasingly prevalent in our everyday lives, we believe it is crucial to understand what transpired in one of the most important companies of the moment. Check the article below to learn more.

That's all we have for today. Check out our website for more resources.

If you liked what you have just red, feel free to share the newsletter with your friends! See you people on our Linkedin profile: The Virtual Digest and have a splendid start of the week!