BREAKOUT SESSION / WEDNESDAY / JUNE 7, 2017 / 9:30 AM

Virtual and Augmented Reality – Even Better Than the Real Thing?

Virtual reality devices such as Oculus Rift have the potential to take immersive experiences to an all-new level, while augmented reality is perhaps VR’s more practical cousin. In this session, we’ll look at examples of retailers who are using these technologies to create engagement and drive sales.

PANELISTS

Steve Chen | Managing Director | Float Hybrid Entertainment

Steve Chen is Managing Director of Float Hybrid Entertainment, a unique interactive experience agency in San Francisco. Steve has been at the forefront of technology and design for the last 25 years. He is driven by the desire to create engaging and immersive experiences for high profile brands. With Float, Steve has had the privilege of working with Microsoft, Whirlpool, Pepsi, General Electric, McDonald’s and Unilever. A hands-on creative director, builder and coder, with a background in architecture and game development – Steve believes the only way to see the future is to make it with your own hands.

Alan Hughes | Founder / Chief Creative Officer | NEXT/NOW

Alan Hughes is the founder and Chief Creative Officer of NEXT/NOW. He is focused on making physical retail and brand experiences more compelling through the use of digital technology and design thinking. Projects of note include software architecture of the Crown Fountain in Millennium Park, digital media creative direction for The Dubai Mall, and numerous digital experiential installations for Intel, Mazda, Under Armour, LG, Accenture, BP, McDonald’s, the NBA, and more.

MODERATOR

Brandon Elliott | Sr. Director, Digital Products | HMSHost

Brandon is a first generation “digital native” who grew up with the latest technology device, game system or computer in his hands. This childhood hobby is what triggered Brandon’s life-long passion for technology and his relentless drive to create, improve, innovate and transform the way we live, work and play. Brandon specializes in information technology and is a former business owner with 24+ years of hands-on experience including engineering, development and management. He is customer centric and results driven with experience working with IT, executive management and key business personnel to bring business strategy and technology innovation together.

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