On October 6, the High Tech Campus Eindhoven in the Netherlands inaugurated 3EALITY, its latest innovation hub, marking the first of its kind in the Benelux region, with a strong emphasis on spatial computing and the metaverse.
3EALITY is dedicated to fostering an ecosystem of innovators specializing in spatial computing and Metaverse-centric applications and business models within the Benelux region. It will also provide support to partners and residents, offering opportunities to showcase their solutions and promote market awareness through collaborative events and educational initiatives conducted in partnership with universities.
Spatial computing represents a technology that seamlessly integrates the digital and physical realms, enabling users to engage with digital elements within their real-world surroundings. It leverages technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) to craft immersive experiences.
Otto van den Boogaard, CEO of High Tech Campus Eindhoven, outlines the campus’s ambition, stating, “High Tech Campus Eindhoven aspires to be a global leader in technology hubs by 2030. To achieve this vision, we proactively drive innovation by establishing physical hubs that stem from emerging technology trends.”
About 3EALITY
The name “3EALITY” serves as a poignant reminder that technology serves as a tool to enhance our reality rather than replace it. The “3” symbolizes the three-dimensional evolution of the Internet, bridging the digital and physical realms. In a world where virtual experiences can often feel distant, 3EALITY seeks to strike a harmonious balance with the natural world.
The physical infrastructure, comprising office spaces and technical facilities, will be strategically situated across two locations: the ground floor and the subterranean level of HTC 37, formerly home to Philips Research. The space’s design is meticulously crafted to foster inspiration and collaboration, featuring a vibrant community area and co-working spaces.
Construction of the hub is scheduled to commence in the forthcoming months, with an official inauguration slated for mid-February. The first occupants are anticipated to relocate at that time.
Philipp Werle, Business Developer of Emerging Tech at High Tech Campus Eindhoven, shares insights into the hub’s progress, stating, “We are currently finalizing collaboration agreements with companies that will provide the requisite infrastructure and expertise in this domain. Additionally, we expect innovative companies to establish themselves in the hub as soon as it opens, marking the inception of a new cluster of emerging tech enterprises within High Tech Campus Eindhoven.”
Dive Deeper into the 3ALITY Launch
3EALITY was officially unveiled during the Immersive Tech Day, an event where Philipp Werle revealed Epic Games as the inaugural partner of this pioneering hub.
This remarkable occasion featured eleven demo partners, including industry titans like Epic Games, NVIDIA, and Philips, showcasing their cutting-edge business solutions to an audience of 150 business professionals. Attendees were treated to an exclusive preview of 3EALITY’s ambitious vision.
The hub’s launch closely follows a significant development – a visit by Apple CEO Tim Cook to NXP Semiconductors and High Tech Campus Eindhoven (HTCE). Earlier this year, Cook led Apple into the “era of spatial computing” with the Vision Pro. With the inauguration of this new hub, HTCE is wholeheartedly embracing this emerging technology trend.
3EALITY stands as the fifth innovation hub within the HTCE ecosystem, building upon the successes of the 5G Hub, AI Innovation Center, HighTechXL, and Urban Air Mobility Hub.
Furthermore, HTCE’s commitment to fostering gender equality and diversity in the tech industry is embodied by the Fe+male Tech Heroes initiative, which has grown to encompass over 4,000 members from diverse backgrounds.