Second Life’s generally considered to be a bit of a weird place. A lot of virtual environments are. They go through two phases of weirdness. The first phase covers the first few waves of users. They’re considered weird because they’re doing something that isn’t usual: using a virtual environment at all, or using one that isn’t particularly well-known. The second phase is when … [Read more...] about Going mainstream means letting in the weirdos
Op-ed
Linden Lab announce Viewer 2.1: voice morphing now available
First - some cynicism on what is otherwise a noteworthy announcement. It's hard to imagine that it's spontaneity that led to a fairly significant viewer upgrade a day after laying off 30% of its staff. It's a move that will be seen through by a lot of Second Life residents for what it is: a carefully planned PR exercise to take the focus off the cutbacks whilst emphasising it's … [Read more...] about Linden Lab announce Viewer 2.1: voice morphing now available
Linden Lab announce plans for layoff-funded Second Life in-browser
Linden Lab have now formalised the announcement on staff cuts - not that there's any detail and plenty of corporate-speak. The whole claim that layoffs improves company focus is tenuous at best, and borders on insulting to those departing. The press release states: Today's announcement about our reorganization will help us make Second Life® even simpler, more enjoyable, … [Read more...] about Linden Lab announce plans for layoff-funded Second Life in-browser
Linden Lab staff reductions: the picture painted
As she is wont to do, Tateru Nino has come up with another great story, albeit a sad one for those involved. Linden Lab have laid off a significant number of staff. Putting aside the obvious human impact of decisions like these, it's certainly not a great look for a company already struggling under the stereotype of being a passed fad in some sections of the mainstream … [Read more...] about Linden Lab staff reductions: the picture painted
Government and virtual worlds: Australia on the catch-up
The issue of virtual worlds getting on a government's policy agenda is something we've examined pretty closely, and like most of you reading this, it can get frustrating sometimes seeing the pace at which change is occurring. In recent days I was again struck on the world leadership role the United States Government are taking in regards to virtual worlds. This report by Dawn … [Read more...] about Government and virtual worlds: Australia on the catch-up