Built for real people with limited budgets
Macdonald's aim was for the platform to be accessible to all and so he developed a method that converts smartphones into VR headsets: “Only 5% of UK households have a VR headset but 99% have smartphones. And while VR headsets can cost thousands, a device mount costs around £15. An old smartphone inserted into a low-cost device mount will provide the same content and the same experience.”
A first-of-its-kind, dual-compatible VR player ensures it works on both Android and iOS. “Not only is this the first time that this treatment is available for free worldwide, it’s also the first time it is accessible via multiple devices and multiple operating systems.”
During development, the platform hosted over 50,000 practice presentations from remote beta users. To further stress test the platform, Macdonald took the lab on tour which included exhibits at the leading science and technology events as well as events at a local market, library, community centre, church, and even someone’s living room. On 29 and 30 March 2025, he'll be demoing the platform at the Cambridge Festival.
“I wanted to build something that is not only highly effective but that can and will be used by those who need it the most.”
“Working closely with end users has been crucial to making sure the platform ‘works in the wild’ and becomes increasingly more effective. Through constant public engagement, we can remain deeply grounded in public service.
“At one demo in Cambridge, we had over a thousand people trying it out. One woman was visibly very emotional. She said to me that she would have had the confidence to become a teacher if this had been around when she was younger.
“It really validated the idea that the platform can expand career horizons.”
It is very promising to see how effective the platform is given that I am already working on the next round of updates.”
In addition to the range of presentation-style audiences, he has started adding more specialised environments and challenges, such as reading a teleprompter in a virtual TV studio or responding to questions in a job or radio interview. Beyond the main platform that is now freely available, he has created an app for healthcare providers, and is collaborating with organisations that seek to support specific groups such as children who stammer.
“The goal is to create more targeted treatment options for those who need it the most. I am currently seeking funding to facilitate this.”
Dr Chris Macdonald established the multi-award-winningImmersive Technology Lab to investigate the transformative potential of emerging technologies for education and healthcare. He is a Fellow at Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge.
Catch up with Chris andtry out the VR platform at the Cambridge Festival on 29 and 30 March.