The AI/XR Podcast March 21st, 2025 ft. Bob Cooney, Author, Futurist, Preeminent Expert in Location-Based Entertainmen
Mar 23, 2025
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Bob Cooney, a leading expert on location-based entertainment and host of the VR Arcade and Attractions Summit, discusses the thrilling rise of portable MR theme parks. He shares insights on how AI technologies are reshaping content creation and the challenges of copyright in the industry. The conversation dives into unique storytelling methods, including a collaborative project inspired by 'Alice in Wonderland.' Cooney also reflects on the evolution of VR experiences and the dynamic landscape of entertainment, showcasing both successes and struggles in the sector.
The integration of AI tools by platforms like Roblox is revolutionizing game development, making it more accessible through low-code options for creators.
Location-based entertainment is evolving with mixed-reality parks, merging diverse experiences to enhance consumer engagement and create new revenue opportunities.
Deep dives
Streamlining XR Development with Zapper
The challenges faced by creators in the XR space due to the need to juggle multiple tools, vendors, and platforms are significant barriers to productivity. Zapper has developed a comprehensive suite of tools and creative services designed to alleviate these frustrations, facilitating a more efficient workflow for developing AR and VR projects. Their innovative 3D web tool, Mattercraft, merges the capabilities of a powerful rendering engine with an intuitive visual editor, enabling designers and developers to craft immersive experiences with ease. This approach allows creators to focus on their artistic vision rather than getting bogged down by technical complexities.
AI's Influence on Copyright and Intellectual Property
Major AI companies, including Meta and OpenAI, are lobbying for a preemptive exemption from copyright law, expressing concerns about intellectual property as they scale their operations. This push for regulatory lenience signifies a shift in how these corporations plan to operate in a landscape where protecting original content has traditionally been paramount. The situation raises important questions about intellectual property rights for creators and the potential erosion of traditional market dynamics as AI technology becomes increasingly integrated into creative processes. As debates around consent and copyright intensify, the implications of such lobbying efforts could widely affect the creative industries.
Advancements in AI for Game Development
Roblox is enhancing its platform by integrating more AI tools for game creators, emphasizing accessibility with low-code or no-code development options. This integration of AI streamlines the creative process, allowing users to generate content simply by describing their desired game features. Similar advancements are seen with Stability AI, which has introduced tools capable of transforming 2D assets into complex 3D models suitable for various gaming environments, enhancing workflow efficiency. These innovations not only make game development more approachable but also tackle longstanding pain points, potentially revitalizing the gaming industry, which is currently facing cost pressures and a surplus of supply.
The Future of Location-Based Entertainment
The landscape of location-based entertainment (LBE) is evolving, with significant shifts in how virtual reality is integrated into the consumer experience. Recent conferences have highlighted the potential for mixed-reality parks that combine various entertainment experiences within a single venue, which could address the challenges of consumer engagement and dwell time. Notable projects are leveraging established technologies and audience engagement strategies to create immersive adventures that transcend traditional setups. As LBE continues to adapt and innovate, the possibilities for new revenue streams and consumer interactions will likely shape the future of entertainment in urban spaces.
This week Charlie and Ted welcome an old friend, Bob Cooney, the world's preeminent expert in location-based entertainment, who has just wrapped his own VR Arcade and Attractions Summit in Las Vegas. He's particularly excited by the portable MR theme park being developed by Brent Bushnell (Two Bit Circus), who keynoted the show. In the news, Big tech wants a preemptive pardon for copyright infringement. With the administration’s open contempt for the media and Hollywood, and the influence of Elon Musk, who owns Xai, they'll get it. Sorry Rony was not here. His head is going to explode. Some good cinematic AI news, too, with a dramatic report on new AI-first production companies.
Thank you to our sponsor, Zappar!
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