The Dutch High Tech Campus Eindhoven has launched 3EALITY, its newest and Benelux-first innovation hub that focuses on spatial computing and the metaverse, on October 6.
3EALITY aims to cultivate an ecosystem of innovators focused on spatial computing and Metaverse-driven applications and business models in Benelux. It will also support partners and residents in demonstrating their solutions and educating the market through events and educational programmes in collaboration with universities.
Spatial computing is a technology that blends the digital and physical worlds, allowing users to interact with digital objects in their real-world environment. It uses technologies such as AR and VR to create immersive experiences.
“High Tech Campus Eindhoven has the ambition to be amongst the leading tech hubs worldwide in 2030,” says Otto van den Boogaard, CEO of HTCE.
“To realise this, we take a proactive role in driving innovation by starting physical hubs emerging from technology trends,” Van den Boogaard adds.
Getting to know 3EALITY
The name “3EALITY” is a reminder that technology is a tool to enhance reality, not replace it. The “3” signifies the three-dimensional evolution of the Internet, connecting the digital to the physical. In a world where virtual realms can feel distant, 3EALITY creates a balance by harmonising with nature.
The physical infrastructure, including office spaces and technical facilities, will be strategically located in two locations: the ground floor and the underground level of HTC 37, the former building of Philips Research.
The design of the space will focus on promoting inspiration and collaboration within a vibrant community area and co-working spaces.
Construction of the Hub will begin in the coming months, with an official opening scheduled for mid-February. The first tenants are expected to move in at that time.
“Currently, we are finalising collaboration agreements with companies that will provide us with the necessary infrastructure and know-how on the topic,” says Philipp Werle, business developer of emerging tech at HTCE.
“Furthermore, we expect the first innovative companies to be located in the hub as soon as we open. This will be the start of a new cluster of emerging tech companies on HTCE,” adds Werle.
More about the launch of 3ALITY
3EALITY was announced during the Immersive Tech Day. At the event, Werle announced Epic Games as the first partner of the innovative hub.
The event also saw eleven demo partners, including industry giants like Epic Games, NVIDIA, and Philips, present their innovative business solutions to an audience of 150 business professionals. Event attendees got an exclusive preview of 3EALITY’s ambitious vision.
The launch comes after Apple CEO Tim Cook’s recent visit to NXP Semiconductors and HTCE. Earlier this year, Cook brought Apple to enter the “era of spatial computing” with the Vision Pro. With the new hub launch, HTCE is embracing this emerging technology trend.
3EALITY is the fifth innovation hub of HTCE. Previously, the Campus established the 5G Hub, the AI Innovation Center, HighechXL, and the Urban Air Mobility Hub.
HTCE has also established Fe+male Tech Heroes, an initiative that strives for more gender equality and diversity in the tech industry. It now has over 4,000 female, male, and non-binary members.
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