Press Release: Lucid Reality Labs Auggie Award Best Societal Impact Finalist
“Seeing the Problem”, The Extended Reality (XR) Ophthalmology Macular Disease Simulation’ developed by Lucid Reality Labs together with the global pharmaceutical and diagnostics leader Roche, has been voted by the public as one of the top finalists in the ‘Best Societal Impact’ category for this year’s Auggie Awards.
The annual Auggie Awards have been the world’s most recognized AR & VR industry awards since 2010. Now in its 14th year, the Auggies continue showcasing the best in augmented, virtual and mixed reality.
The ‘Best Societal Impact‘ nomination acknowledges the best use of AR or VR technologies to make a meaningful and positive impact on the world.
“Seeing the problem” is history’s first XR Ophthalmology experience that allows healthcare practitioners, medical students, and patient associations to first-hand encounter and share the pain of people living with macular disease. The immersive experience demonstrates the immense challenges that millions worldwide living with the condition face every day.
The XR experience was developed in partnership with Roche Diagnostics UK & Ireland, a global leader in Pharmaceuticals and Diagnostics. Varjo XR-3, one of the market’s most advanced Mixed Reality headsets, was used to develop a genuinely impactful depiction of real life with macular disease.
Now the award nominees are under expert jury review. Winners will be announced shortly and presented with a prestigious Auggie Award at the Auggie Awards Ceremony on June 1st at the AWE USA 2023 event in Santa Clara, California.
Macular disease can take many forms. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most common conditions and the most significant cause of sight loss. The global number of people living with macular disease globally is estimated to reach 288 million by 2040. The condition today impacts nearly 11 million people in the US alone, with the number expected to increase twofold by 2050, with people of all ages living with the condition. Even though no cure currently exists for AMD, treatment may slow down the disease and diminish the severity of vision loss. Therefore, it requires additional awareness.
The XR Ophthalmology Macular Disease Simulation, named “Seeing the Problem,” was developed to address this lack of awareness and bring much-needed attention to this immense issue. The Extended Reality Simulation was presented to the Members of the UK Parliament, drove active communication around the eye care topic, and aimed to contribute to creating an inclusive National Strategy for Eye Care. The XR solution is planned to be expanded globally, with the USA presentation in 2023/24.
Going beyond, the presented XR solution paves the way for technology into some currently neglected or underfunded social problems, which can be addressed using immersive technology, thus helping improve the quality of lives for millions worldwide.
About Lucid Reality Labs
Lucid Reality Labs is a visionary XR development company that crafts complex immersive solutions through spatial technology – from concept & design to development & support, with a strategic focus on Healthcare, Life Science, Aerospace & Defense, and many more. We equip industries with the boundless potential of immersive technology. The Lucid Reality Labs’ Team believes that XR can contribute to the improvement of the quality of life for people around the globe. With our mission of disrupting global challenges with responsible technology, the company delivers solutions with impact that elevate industries with immersive capabilities. Check the award-winning use cases created by Lucid Reality Labs here.
Authors: Lucid Reality Labs marketing team & subject matter experts.