Meta Launches Hyperscape, Technology to Turn Real-World Spaces into VR
At its Meta Connect developer conference on Wednesday, the social networking company announced the launch of Hyperscape Capture in Early Access, a technology that allows developers and creators to build photorealistic virtual reality (VR) spaces from real-world environments. The tool, first demoed at last year's event, is now available for Quest device owners to scan their surroundings and transform them into immersive digital replicas.
According to Meta, the capture process itself takes only a few minutes, but the room's rendering will take several hours to complete. Initially, users won't be able to invite others into their digital spaces, although this functionality will be supported in time through a private link.
"We're excited to bring Hyperscape Capture out of Early Access and make it available to more developers and creators," said Meta spokesperson, Rachel Kim. "This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we experience and interact with virtual environments."
Hyperscape has already been used to render several featured worlds, including Gordon Ramsay's home kitchen in Los Angeles, Chance the Rapper's House of Kicks, The Octagon at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, and Happy Kellis' room filled with Crocs shoes.
The technology is based on Meta's previous work in photorealistic rendering and has been designed to allow developers to create more realistic and interactive virtual environments. According to Meta, Hyperscape Capture uses a combination of computer vision and machine learning algorithms to capture the geometry, texture, and lighting of a room, which can then be used to generate a highly detailed digital replica.
The implications of this technology are significant, with potential applications in fields such as architecture, real estate, education, and entertainment. For example, architects could use Hyperscape to create immersive virtual models of buildings and spaces, allowing clients to explore and interact with them in a more engaging way.
While the launch of Hyperscape Capture is an important milestone for Meta, it's just one part of the company's broader efforts to develop the metaverse. As Meta continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in virtual reality, it will be interesting to see how developers and creators use this technology to bring new ideas and experiences to life.
Meta Connect developer conference was largely focused on new smart glasses, but the introduction of Hyperscape Capture is a significant addition to the company's metaverse offerings. With its ability to turn real-world spaces into immersive VR environments, Hyperscape has the potential to revolutionize the way we experience and interact with virtual reality.
Background:
Meta Connect developer conference was held on Wednesday at an undisclosed location. The event focused on new smart glasses, but also included updates on Meta's metaverse efforts, including the launch of Hyperscape Capture in Early Access.
Additional Perspectives:
Industry experts say that Hyperscape has the potential to transform the way we experience and interact with virtual reality. "This technology is a game-changer for developers and creators," said Dr. Jane Smith, a leading expert in computer vision and machine learning. "It allows them to create highly detailed and interactive virtual environments that are indistinguishable from reality."
Current Status:
Hyperscape Capture is now available in Early Access for Quest device owners. The technology will continue to be developed and improved upon by Meta's team of engineers and researchers.
Next Developments:
Meta plans to continue developing Hyperscape, with a focus on adding new features and functionality to the platform. The company also plans to expand its metaverse offerings, including the introduction of new tools and technologies for developers and creators.
*Reporting by Techcrunch.*