From today, anyone anywhere can experience the magic of Expo 2020 Dubai with friends and family. The World Expo has teamed up with Magnopus to offer an enriching digital experience for millions of on-site and remote visitors from around the world. Expo Dubai Xplorer sets a new standard for accessibility and inclusivity to large events and expands the World Expo’s vision of ‘Connecting Minds and Creating the Future’ into the virtual world of Metaverse.
The multi-player experience is available on iOS and Android powered by cloud-hosted services developed by Magnopus. Unique features include:
- Real-time connectivity between on-site and remote users across the physical and digital divide.
- One of the largest deployments in the world of persistent Cloud Anchors which allow millions of on-site visitors to experience AR spectacles aligned accurately to real world locations.
- A social, interactive digital twin of the 4.38km² Expo site—a living world built from the architectural files of the site and enriched with content and experiences.
Uniting The Physical & Digital
Users can customize their own AI-powered avatar and connect with others in real-time across the physical and digital divide. Standing on the Expo site, a visitor may see a friend from the other side of the world (viewed through the lens of their phone) as an avatar they can share experiences with, and communicate with via group creation and messaging.
On-site hardware will also link the physical and digital worlds. Smart screens called “Digital World Viewers” show views of digital content to enhance the physical landscape for visitors. The desktop application is designed to mimic the capabilities of the mobile applications by connecting to the same cloud services for local content and avatar display.
Augmented Reality Aligned To Real World Locations
By using ARCore Cloud Anchors by Google for hundreds of location-specific activations around the site, visitors will experience entertaining and educational AR content relevant to wherever they are at Expo 2020 Dubai. AR activations including mysterious portals to far-off places, treasure hunts through history, and magical creature encounters are all aligned to real world
locations with centimeter accuracy. This is currently one of the largest deployments of ARCore Cloud Anchors in the world.
Geospatial authoring interfaces and global content delivery networks for updating and publishing new content in real-time enable designers to release new interactive AR experiences anywhere on the site during the run of Expo 2020 Dubai. Powered by a set of cloud-hosted services, content is automatically streamed down to the user's device when they approach a location or interact with an experience, without impacting the application’s install size. This enables users to experience any number of magical AR moments, all from a relatively small application on their device, and new or updated experiences can be pushed while the visitor is still in the app.
Remote visitors can access the same AR content and experiences, over a connected digital twin of the site, via an interface similar to popular mobile games like Fortnite or Roblox.
A Live, Social Digital Twin
The digital twin of the Expo site covers more than 200 buildings from the world’s leading architects across a huge 4.38km2 site, including 192 unique country pavilions. Hundreds of artists working around the world spent more than two years creating the living digital replica, enhancing it with dynamic lighting, art installations, animated experiences, and stunning spectacles. Virtual reality was used to collaboratively develop the designs and experiences so they could be tested before the physical site was even built.
The visitor experience geolocates content on the site in real-time, so the digital twin has been built to a high degree of accuracy, at 1:1 scale from the architect’s CAD files, and confirmed with “as-builts”. Due to the size and detail of the site, it can’t be stored on visitor’s devices in its entirety and is streamed to visitors based on their location and proximity. The system also accounts for the performance capabilities of the visitor’s device to deliver the highest quality representation possible.
Ben Grossmann, CEO of Magnopus, says, “This is the biggest space to date, connected across the physical and digital worlds. These ‘connected spaces’ are the building blocks of the new immersive web, or Metaverse. We’ve been working on these kinds of experiences and technologies for many years, and it was thrilling to take things to the next level to bring this grand vision to life with the Innovation and Future Technologies team at Expo 2020 Dubai."
Rehan Asad, Chief Program Officer for Expo 2020 Dubai, says, “The Virtual Expo is an important part of delivering Expo 2020 Dubai’s promise and purpose—‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’. In 2013, Expo 2020 Dubai promised the world to host not only the best ever physical Expo but also the very best virtual Expo. That commitment and COVID-19 pandemic has challenged us to find innovative ways to share the Expo experience and content
of our once-in-a-lifetime World Expo with a larger global audience who may not be able to travel from around the world. Magnopus and the wider team have unified the most innovative technologies into one integrated experience that truly brings Expo 2020’s creative vision to life in the digital and virtual world.”
Daisy Leak, the project’s Executive Producer, says, “The global pandemic has affirmed that events can no longer be purely physical, or with only a perfunctory video streaming presence. By uniting 200 countries in a common experience, and making that experience available to visitors both on-site in Dubai and around the world, in an engaging and spatial context, we hope to serve as an example of what the future offers to unite people and places in a better way.”
The multiplayer experience has been in development for nearly three years with world-class partners including Google, Unity Technologies, and Amazon Web Services with key contributions from:
- REWIND (experience design and platform development)
- Virtuos (3D asset development)
- Hexagram (quest narrative design and technology)
- Pinscreen (avatar technology with AI-driven face synthesis)
- Dog Studio (web development for Virtual Expo connected to content databases)
- VIM (BIM conversion technology)
- Terahard (activation development)
- Activated Realities (activation development)
- Source Sound (audio design and development)
Expo Dubai Xplorer is available to download now on iOS and Android.
-Ends-
About Magnopus
Founded in 2013, Magnopus creates experiences and technologies that unite the physical and digital worlds. Magnopus is known for its continuous innovation in the entertainment industry; its Emmy-nominated VR projects; its role as a leader in virtual production through its groundbreaking work on Disney’s The Lion King (2019); and its pioneering work in AR. This year Magnopus acquired REWIND, a UK spatial design and innovation company, to further its mission to merge the physical and digital and lay the foundation for the new immersive web.
About Expo 2020 Dubai
From 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 Dubai welcomes visitors from every corner of the globe to join the making of a new world, as it brings together the planet in one place to reimagine tomorrow @ www.virtualexpodubai.com
- With the purpose of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, Expo 2020 is the world’s most impactful global incubator for new ideas, catalysing an exchange of new perspectives and inspiring action to deliver real-life solutions to real-world challenges
- Expo 2020 is the biggest cultural gathering in the world, presenting a visually striking and emotionally inspiring 182 days, as more than 200 participants – including nations, multilateral organisations, businesses, and educational institutions, as well as millions of visitors – create the largest and most diverse World Expo ever
- Expo 2020’s sub themes of Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability inspire visitors to preserve and protect our planet, explore new frontiers and build a better future for everyone
- For six months, Expo 2020 is be a must-visit family destination, with thousands of events, amazing exploratory experiences, and free entry for children up to age 18
- Expo is committed to building a more equitable and just world for everyone, while keeping visitors safe by following the latest guidance of the world’s leading medical, science and health experts
- Expo 2020 is the first World Expo to take place in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, located on a 4.38 sqkm site adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai South
- Built with a meaningful and measurable long-term legacy in mind, the Expo site will transform into District 2020 – a model global community that will rethink the cities of the future – after Expo 2020 closes its doors
For more information contact Jude Forbes, jude@rewind.co
Send us your press releases topressrelease.zawya@refinitiv.com
© Press Release 2021
Disclaimer: The contents of this press release was provided from an external third party provider. This website is not responsible for, and does not control, such external content. This content is provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis and has not been edited in any way. Neither this website nor our affiliates guarantee the accuracy of or endorse the views or opinions expressed in this press release.
The press release is provided for informational purposes only. The content does not provide tax, legal or investment advice or opinion regarding the suitability, value or profitability of any particular security, portfolio or investment strategy. Neither this website nor our affiliates shall be liable for any errors or inaccuracies in the content, or for any actions taken by you in reliance thereon. You expressly agree that your use of the information within this article is at your sole risk.
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, this website, its parent company, its subsidiaries, its affiliates and the respective shareholders, directors, officers, employees, agents, advertisers, content providers and licensors will not be liable (jointly or severally) to you for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, incidental, punitive or exemplary damages, including without limitation, lost profits, lost savings and lost revenues, whether in negligence, tort, contract or any other theory of liability, even if the parties have been advised of the possibility or could have foreseen any such damages.
FAQs
Expo 2020 Dubai enters the metaverse world connecting millions across the physical & digital globally? ›
Expo 2020 Dubai Enters The Metaverse World Connecting Millions Across The Physical & Digital Globally The Expo Dubai Xplorer multiplayer experience features real-time connectivity between on-site and remote users, an interactive digital twin of the 4km2 site, and magical AR spectacles.
How does Expo Dubai 2020 benefit from using VR & AR? ›The pavilion will feature augmented and virtual reality that will allow visitors to see the real-time movement of cargo across the world, and learn how global trade happens and its impact on every aspect of everyone's life every day.
How do you think Dubai Expo will influence Globalisation? ›The event will amplify the UAE's push for economic diversification, opening avenues for bilateral trade. It offers the opportunity to collaborate in areas where the UAE wants to build its strengths, such as food security and renewable energy.
What is virtual Expo Dubai? ›The Virtual Expo concept was developed in the planning stage as far back as 2012, when His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said the UAE would not only host the best physical World Expo, but also the most advanced digital and augmented ...
What are the positive impacts of Expo 2020? ›One year after the closing of World Expo 2020 Dubai, a study by EY finds that the economic impact of the Expo is expected to contribute a total of AED 154.9 billion of gross value added (GVA) to the economy of the UAE in the period from 2013 to 2042.
What are the benefits of virtual reality in society? ›One of the most striking benefits of virtual reality in various industries, especially for education and training, is its immersive experience. Digital tools created with VR technology, such as 3D learning environments, allow the learner to grasp the theoretical concepts much deeper.
Is Dubai Expo a success or failure? ›The success of Expo 2020 is even more astounding and nearly unfathomable when viewed against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic but this is what Dubai is known for. Taking up massive projects, building the necessary infrastructure, overcoming the odds and astonishing the world.
What are the benefits of participating in Dubai Expo? ›One of the advantages of Expo 2020 in Dubai is that it will directly benefit thousands of people by creating a multitude of new jobs in the emirate across numerous different sectors. Indirectly, this also contributes to the economy of Dubai and plays its part in the GDP growth of the emirate.
What is the importance of Dubai Expo? ›The World Expo is one of the oldest and largest global events, taking place every five years. From October 2021 to March 2022, Expo 2020 Dubai welcomed over 24 million visitors to the first World Expo to be held in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region and the first to be hosted by an Arab nation.
What happens at Dubai expo? ›Change the way you see the world as you explore 192 country pavilions and a host of signature pavilions. For the first time in World Expo history, every participating country will have its own pavilion. Enjoy immersive cultural experiences and discover what makes each country unique.
What is unique of Dubai expo? ›
1. The first expo to be hosted by an Arab nation, the Dubai Expo 2020 has put into action the themes of World Expo 2020 and made it a 100% Ecological Project. The team behind the Dubai Expo plans to repurpose 90% of the material used for the construction into building public buildings.
How does a virtual expo work? ›Virtual Expo is simply an exposition or exhibition hosted virtually over a virtual event platform. The online format of a virtual expo enables the global exhibitors & attendees to have real-time interactions from their remote locations.
What are the cons of Dubai expo? ›Cons of Expo 2020
For instance, some of the sectors such as tourism and real estate may experience an oversupply of services such as accommodation facilities after the Expo. Second, the government will incur many costs in setting up necessary infrastructure, as well as, beefing up security across the country.
This World Expo will be hosted by Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and will consider the theme, 'Connecting Minds, Creating the Future'. According to the organizers, the Expo will be a “festival of human ingenuity,” in recognition of collaboration and partnership as today's engines of growth.
What are the benefits of expo? ›- Increase Brand Awareness. An exhibition stand will help your company get noticed, as it's the perfect opportunity to get directly in front of your target audience. ...
- Face-to-Face Marketing. ...
- Direct Sales Opportunities. ...
- Learn About Your Industry. ...
- Get to Know Your Competitors.
Transitioning into Expo City, the Expo 2020 Dubai site will live long after we close our doors at the end of March 2022. This sustainable, human-centric smart city will reuse at least 80% of the Expo-built infrastructure, including LEED Gold and Platinum-certified buildings.
What will be the greatest impact of the Expo on the UAE? ›Real Estate & construction
UAE's real estate market has not been all that great in the last couple of years. But, Expo 2020 has led to an increase in the number of businesses in diverse sectors, which has helped boost the real estate sector of the country.
World Expo, Shanghai
With a site of 523 hectares in size, Expo 2010 Shanghai was the largest ever. In nearly two centuries of Expo, it also had the highest attendance rate, with a whopping 73.5 million visitors pouring through its gates.
Expo 2020, an exhibition taking place between October 2021 and March 2022, is the world's largest cultural gathering. The focus is on 'Connecting Minds, Creating the Future' and is a chance for countries, businesses, and people to come together and demonstrate sustainability, mobility, and opportunity around the world.
Is Dubai cheap or expensive? ›Dubai isn't actually much more expensive than London, New York, and other big cities. However, Dubai's not a very walkable city. Jaywalking is illegal, and crossings are few and far between. Taxi prices aren't too expensive but taking them often can add up.
Is Dubai Expo free? ›
Do I have to pay to go to Expo City Dubai? It is free to enter Expo City Dubai but to visit some of the attractions inside there is a fee. Tickets cost Dhs50 per person per pavilion and the pavilions are open daily from 10am to 6pm.
What happens to pavilions after Expo? ›The plan is to run these pavilions only until Expo 2020 is LIVE and then tear them down once curtains come down on March 31. The space vacated by these pavilions will then play host to multiple homes, offices and commercial buildings as Expo 2020 will transform into a real estate behemoth, District 2020.
What is an interesting fact about expo? ›The logo of Expo 2020 Dubai is inspired by a 4000-year-old gold ring that was discovered at an ancient archaeological site at Al Marmoom named Saruq Al Hadid. This expo will play host to 190 countries, and for the first time in history, every participating country will have its own pavilion.
Why should I visit expo? ›All the world's a stage, with up to 60 events a day at Expo 2020. That means every day will be a unique experience, requiring multiple visits to fully enjoy. From daily parades to late-night laser shows, special effects and fireworks, Expo 2020 will have something for everyone.
How do virtual events make money? ›Future Trends in Event Monetization
Virtual events offer new ways to make money through digital sponsorships, advertisements, and ticket sales. Hybrid events combine virtual and in-person events and provide a more diverse range of revenue streams.
Metaverse Expo in Tokyo is an international trade fair focused on the development and deployment of augmented and virtual realities. Metaverse, also known as the "Internet for the next generation," aims to transform society and industry.
Are virtual exhibitions effective? ›Benefits of Virtual Trade Fairs
Virtual Fairs are beneficial because they are much more cost-effective as compared to physical events. They also enable your company to reach a much larger number of people and bring a lot more exposure to your brand.
Expo provides a comprehensive set of pre-built components and APIs that cover many commonly used mobile features, such as Camera, Image, MapView, Push notifications, Async storage, File system, etc. These components and APIs are easy to use, well-documented, and can be easily integrated into the project.
What are the economic benefits of Dubai Expo 2020? ›Expo 2020 Dubai awarded AED 6.8 billion of contracts to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), providing a significant contribution to a vital sector of Dubai's vibrant economy and exceeding a commitment made in 2016 to award at least 20 per cent of all direct and indirect spend to SMEs.
What is the importance of Expo 2020 Dubai to UAE's economy? ›Expo 2020 Dubai will add AED 154.9 billion ($42.2 billion) to the UAE economy between 2013 to 2042, and support 1 million job-years, according to a new study. The EY study said the event itself, which took place one year late, opening in October 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, saw 24.1 million visits.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of AR and VR? ›
| Augmented Reality | |
|---|---|
| Advantage | Disadvantage |
| Ability to Share your experience with other people in real time over long distances | Regarding user experience, socially using Augmented Reality may be inappropriate in some situations |
AR adds to reality through phones and tablets; VR creates a new reality via headsets. AR is better for isolated, technical topics; VR is better for complex, soft-skill content. AR training and VR training are both expensive, but the long-term ROI proves worthwhile.
How effective is AR vs VR? ›In addition, many VR experiences require headsets or sensory devices to work, while AR does not. It's also commonly said that AR is 75% reality and 25% virtual, and VR is 25% reality and 75% virtual.
How does Expo make money? ›We do not display ads to developers nor end users. How does Expo make money? Generally, our plan for the business is to build services that help developers make and operate their apps. We've started with Expo Developer Services, a monthly plan for some services for making apps.
What is the downside of using Expo? ›- Build is done by Expo, in their cloud.
- Native modules not supported.
- Expo apps don't support background code execution (source docs.expo.io)
- Javascript source is hosted in their cloud.
- JS and assets managed by Expo require connectivity to Google Cloud Platform and AWS.
Why Not Expo? The biggest perk of using Expo, is that you don't have to touch native code. But if you are a native mobile developer or have native mobile developers on your team that is working on building a React Native app, do not use Expo. Because, you won't be utilizing the native coding expertise while using Expo.
What is the main purpose of Expo 2020? ›Over six months, 192 participating countries exchanged new ideas and perspectives under Expo 2020's theme, “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future.” Expo 2020 broadened participants' horizons while incubating solutions to create a better world for everyone, everywhere.
What makes Expo 2020 Dubai unique? ›Expo 2020 Dubai is an immersive, sensorial experience and a journey that takes you on a whistle stop tour around the participating countries. Expo Dubai 2020 is the first World Expo to take place in the Middle East. For the first time in Expo history, all participating countries have pavilions – 192 to be exact.
What is good about Dubai Expo? ›Unique Experiences for all at Dubai Expo
It is a unique world of novel experiences that offer more than 60 daily shows, and over 200 restaurants with world-class cuisines. It has 191 country pavilions and 200+ pavilions that take you to different worlds where every single moment is legendary for you.
Expo figures and Conclusion
There was a whopping 24.1 Million visits from 178 countries, 30.3% visits came from overseas. 107,000 visits were from people of determinations. This was one place fully dedicated to the people.