- In April 2024, 8i, a leading volumetric video technology firm, expanded its European operations by opening a dedicated R&D facility in Berlin, Germany, aimed at enhancing volumetric video capture capabilities for enterprise applications. This strategic move allows the company to work closely with regional partners in automotive design, sports broadcasting, and virtual education. The Berlin center will serve as a hub for developing AI-enhanced compression techniques and real-time 3D communication solutions, reflecting growing demand in Europe for immersive and interactive media formats.
- In March 2024, RealView Imaging Ltd, an Israeli pioneer in holographic visualization, partnered with Karolinska University Hospital in Sweden to pilot volumetric video applications for pre-operative surgical planning in neurology. The project enables surgeons to view patient-specific 3D holograms projected in open air, improving spatial understanding and reducing operating room errors. This partnership not only marks a milestone for medical imaging in Europe but also showcases the increasing acceptance of volumetric technologies in high-stakes clinical settings.
- In February 2024, Voxon Photonics, an Australian-based volumetric display company, collaborated with the University of Leeds, UK, to deploy its VX1 volumetric display in education and medical training programs. The initiative aims to explore new pedagogical applications for 3D visualization in STEM classrooms and healthcare simulation labs. The technology enables real-time, multi-angle interaction with volumetric content without the need for headsets, offering educators a versatile tool for enhancing learning outcomes.
- In January 2024, Microsoft Mixed Reality Lab showcased significant upgrades to its Azure Kinect-based volumetric capture system at CES Europe 2024, held in Paris. These upgrades included reduced latency for live-streamed volumetric video and improved skeletal tracking powered by Azure AI. Microsoft also announced new collaborations with European content studios and academic institutions to develop localized volumetric experiences for entertainment, education, and remote collaboration.
- In December 2023, LightSpace Technologies, a Latvia-based volumetric imaging specialist, secured a €4.6 million grant under the Horizon Europe innovation fund to scale its next-generation light field displays for surgical and industrial design applications. The company is working with partners in France, the Netherlands, and Italy to advance glasses-free 3D visualization for mission-critical use cases, reinforcing Europe’s role as a key innovation hub in the global volumetric video landscape.
