Latest news with #WebXR
Time of India
a day ago
- Business
- Time of India
The Moonlighting Maverick: Who Is Soham Parekh?
It might be the birthday of the Top Gun Maverick, but the moonlighting maverick is hogging all the limelight. It's Soham Parekh, the India‑based software engineer who's gone viral – earning both admiration and alarm across Silicon Valley. But who really is Soham Parekh? Let's unpack. Earlier this month, a viral post by Playground AI founder Suhail Doshi on X revealed Parekh was allegedly holding three to five simultaneous jobs at US startups (many backed by Y Combinator), sparking a wave of outrage. Founders at Fleet AI, Antimetal, Warp, Lindy, and others confirmed similar experiences, with several deeming him deceptive and terminating contracts. Yet Parekh's CV portrays a stellar academic and professional journey. Let's unpack the real story behind this multi‑hat maverick. The viral allegations: Sending shockwaves through Silicon Valley The story took momentum when Suhail Doshi, former Mixpanel CEO and Playground AI founder, issued a public warning: Parekh was allegedly working simultaneously at three to five startups – without disclosure – targeting YC-funded companies. Claims included: Being fired during his first week at Playground AI for dishonesty A resume fraught with links that were "gone" and "probably 90% fake" Roles at companies like Dynamo AI, Synthesia, Alan AI, and GitHub This alarm resonated with other startup founders – Lindy, Fleet AI, Antimetal, Warp – all recounting their own dealings with Parekh, confirming either firing or abrupt cancellations upon discovery. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trade Bitcoin & Ethereum – No Wallet Needed! IC Markets Start Now Undo Parekh's academic and professional trajectory Despite the scandal, Parekh's résumé – as shared by Doshi – painted an impressive picture: Bachelor's in Computer Engineering – University of Mumbai (2020) Master's in Computer Science – Georgia Tech (2022) Alleged prior roles included: Open Source Fellow at GitHub (May–Aug 2020) Founding Engineer at Alan AI (2021) Full‑stack Engineer roles at Synthesia and Contract work with Dynamo AI (2024 onward) In fact, before the controversy, Parekh was recognized for genuine technical contributions: Active contributor in the MLH Fellowship, working on WebXR, AR/VR example code via Founded Devstation, a non-profit promoting open-source adoption Published articles on machine learning, cybersecurity, and development – from his personal blog ( to Medium From their accounts, friends of Parekh and community members remember an ambitious engineer focused on real-world tech impact – making the scandal all the more dramatic. The paradox of Parekh: The testimonials Following Doshi's post, a line of startup leaders came forward: Flo Crivello (Lindy) said, while speaking about Parekh: 'Hired a week earlier, fired this morning… did incredibly well in interviews.' Nicolai Ouporov (Fleet AI) said: 'He has been doing this for years and works at more than 4 startups at any given time.' Matthew Parkhurst (Antimetal) dubbed Parekh 'really smart and likeable,' but relieved him once multi‑jobbing surfaced, while Michelle Lim (Warp) engaged him for a trial project but cancelled post-scandal. Even lesser-known founders – like Igor Zalutski from Digger CI – chimed in, calling the behavior 'unhinged' and noting how well Parekh nailed interviews despite deceit. The social spotlight While no public statement has come, Doshi revealed a private message from Parekh: 'Have I completely sabotaged my career? What can I do to improve my situation? I am also happy to come clean.' But given these revelations have been quite some 'juicy content', social media users have had a field day. Parekh, who is being dubbed as the 'Wolf of YC Street,' has been trending all over X. While one social media user joked: 'Every crypto marketer has been Soham Parekh at some point in their career,' another quipped, 'Woke up with fever and cold…it's over for me y'all… Soham Parekh please don't take my job.' What's even funnier, one internet user, going with the username 'Sohamp711' and a private X profile, has put up this as his bio: 'NOT the viral startup guy.' That's not all. An internet user has even come out with a new startup idea for Parekh, in case he loses his six startup jobs – 'Soham Parekh should start a company called the 100x engineer.' While some hailed his hustle mentality: 'a corporate majdoor who cracked the matrix,' others demanded serious reforms: remote hiring, background checks, and ethical transparency must be revisited. The bigger picture: Will the real Soham Parekh please stand up? Parekh's saga isn't just sensational – it catalyzes a global rethink on hiring standards: Rigorous vetting needed: With overseas remote work a norm, startups must ratchet up verification, cross-check references, and validate credentials. Ethics vs efficiency: High-speed hiring can tempt overlooking red flags. Parekh displayed top-tier skill – but with deceptive intent. Policy evolution: Companies from Infosys to Wipro are reshaping moonlighting rules—some even allowing side-gigs under strict supervision. Truth to be told: the tale of Soham Parekh isn't black and white. On one side, a gifted coder who built immersive WebXR projects, led open-source, and documented learning. On the other hand, an alleged moonlighting mastermind with a possibly embellished résumé. That duality – innovation shadowed by possible fraud – is what makes his story so captivating. If Parekh genuinely 'comes clean' – as he intended, in his alleged DM to Doshi – his story could evolve from a cautionary tale to a redemption arc. But until then, his impact on hiring ethics and remote work best practices is undeniable. Meet Manasi Parekh, TV Star Who Won National Award Best Actress 2024
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Snap to introduce new immersive and lightweight glasses in 2026
US-based technology company Snap has unveiled plans to launch a new augmented reality (AR) product, known as Specs, in 2026. Specs is a lightweight wearable computer integrated into glasses with see-through lenses. The company has invested more than $3bn over the past 11 years to develop this lightweight wearable technology, which integrates digital experiences into a pair of glasses with transparent lenses. Specs are designed to enhance the physical environment through advanced machine learning (ML) and AI, allowing users to engage in shared experiences, gaming, and productivity tasks. Snap's vision for Specs is to overcome the limitations of smartphones, which often require users to focus on small screens rather than their surroundings. The company believes that as AI evolves, existing devices and interfaces must also adapt to fully harness AI's capabilities. Specs are intended to facilitate immersive experiences that allow users to interact with their environment in real-time. Snap is also collaborating with Niantic Spatial to integrate their Visual Positioning System into Specs, and plans to introduce WebXR support for browser-based experiences in the near future. Developers are currently 'building new experiences' for Spectacles, the fifth generation of Snap's glasses that were released in 2024 as a precursor to Specs. Snap's announcement showcased the possibilities for developers utilising the new Specs. Among the early experiences include Gowaaa's Super Travel, a tool designed to help travellers with translation and currency conversion, and Paradiddle's Drum Kit, which supports users in mastering drumming techniques. Other applications include Pool Assist from Studio ANRK, Cookmate from Headraft, and Wisp World from Liquid City, each designed to enhance user experiences in various ways. In addition to Specs, Snap has announced significant updates to Snap OS, incorporating feedback from its developer community. Key updates include deep integrations with OpenAI and Google Cloud's Gemini, enabling the developers create of AI-powered Lenses. The new Depth Module API allows for accurate anchoring of augmented reality information in three dimensions, while the Automated Speech Recognition API supports real-time transcription in over 40 languages. New tools for developers will facilitate the creation of location-based experiences, including a Fleet Management app for monitoring Specs and Guided Navigation for AR tours. These enhancements aim to support developers such as Enklu, which operates immersive holographic theatres across the US. In 2024, Snap announced plans to cut its workforce by about 10%, reflecting ongoing job reductions in the tech sector amid economic uncertainties since 2023. "Snap to introduce new immersive and lightweight glasses in 2026" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Snap to introduce new immersive and lightweight glasses in 2026
US-based technology company Snap has unveiled plans to launch a new augmented reality (AR) product, known as Specs, in 2026. Specs is a lightweight wearable computer integrated into glasses with see-through lenses. The company has invested more than $3bn over the past 11 years to develop this lightweight wearable technology, which integrates digital experiences into a pair of glasses with transparent lenses. Specs are designed to enhance the physical environment through advanced machine learning (ML) and AI, allowing users to engage in shared experiences, gaming, and productivity tasks. Snap's vision for Specs is to overcome the limitations of smartphones, which often require users to focus on small screens rather than their surroundings. The company believes that as AI evolves, existing devices and interfaces must also adapt to fully harness AI's capabilities. Specs are intended to facilitate immersive experiences that allow users to interact with their environment in real-time. Snap is also collaborating with Niantic Spatial to integrate their Visual Positioning System into Specs, and plans to introduce WebXR support for browser-based experiences in the near future. Developers are currently 'building new experiences' for Spectacles, the fifth generation of Snap's glasses that were released in 2024 as a precursor to Specs. Snap's announcement showcased the possibilities for developers utilising the new Specs. Among the early experiences include Gowaaa's Super Travel, a tool designed to help travellers with translation and currency conversion, and Paradiddle's Drum Kit, which supports users in mastering drumming techniques. Other applications include Pool Assist from Studio ANRK, Cookmate from Headraft, and Wisp World from Liquid City, each designed to enhance user experiences in various ways. In addition to Specs, Snap has announced significant updates to Snap OS, incorporating feedback from its developer community. Key updates include deep integrations with OpenAI and Google Cloud's Gemini, enabling the developers create of AI-powered Lenses. The new Depth Module API allows for accurate anchoring of augmented reality information in three dimensions, while the Automated Speech Recognition API supports real-time transcription in over 40 languages. New tools for developers will facilitate the creation of location-based experiences, including a Fleet Management app for monitoring Specs and Guided Navigation for AR tours. These enhancements aim to support developers such as Enklu, which operates immersive holographic theatres across the US. In 2024, Snap announced plans to cut its workforce by about 10%, reflecting ongoing job reductions in the tech sector amid economic uncertainties since 2023. "Snap to introduce new immersive and lightweight glasses in 2026" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Wire
Texas Immersive Institute at UT Austin Brings Virtual Worlds to Life with HTC VIVERSE
AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Texas Immersive Institute (TXI) at Moody College of Communication, University of Texas at Austin, has completed a semester-long collaboration with HTC VIVERSE, resulting in the creation of seven original virtual worlds that showcase the power of browser-based storytelling using WebXR. 'This collaboration has been pivotal not just for student learning, but for expanding TXI's presence in immersive 3D environments.' - Erin Reilly, TXI's Founding Director Share The collaboration marks HTC's first major academic collaboration using VIVERSE Create, a WebXR platform for designing and exploring 3D environments directly through a browser. Working with VIVERSE prepares students for the future of content creation and immersive storytelling—an industry projected to grow to $39.8 billion by 2032—by providing access to professional 3D tools to hone their skills and give them a head start on their careers. Over the Spring 2025 semester, five projects emerged from TXI's Experimental Storytelling course led by Professor Rohitash Rao, while two advanced projects were developed by the TXI Lab team, including Professor Erin Reilly, Program Manager Azalea Laredo, alumni Chris D'avilla, and intern Yu Liu. 'This collaboration has been pivotal not just for student learning, but for expanding TXI's presence in immersive 3D environments,' said Erin Reilly, TXI's Founding Director. 'One project reimagined our physical lab as a virtual showcase, while another created a learning simulation for the role of Lighting Designer. Both reflect our vision to prototype the future of storytelling, education, and connection.' HTC VIVERSE Developer Community Manager, Michael Morran, conducted a series of hands-on workshops throughout the semester, guiding the TXI community on publishing and optimization using PlayCanvas, the core engine of VIVERSE Create. 'Through this collaboration, we are empowering future designers and creators with the tools and support needed to create immersive 3D virtual experiences,' said Morran. 'We're proud to showcase their work across the global VIVERSE Worlds platform, providing them exposure to our community of innovative creators.' All worlds are publicly accessible through a virtual gallery on TXI's website, with behind-the-scenes content and interactive access to each world. About Texas Immersive Institute The Texas Immersive Institute's mission is to create responsible, responsive, and remarkable solutions through the power of immersive storytelling. The program empowers artists, scientists, and humanists with access to cutting-edge technology and research to design experiences that address significant challenges. About HTC VIVE HTC VIVE is the premier Extended Reality (XR) platform and ecosystem that creates true-to-life XR experiences for businesses and consumers. The VIVE ecosystem is built around premium XR hardware, software, and content. The VIVE business encompasses best-in-class XR hardware; VIVEPORT platform and app store; VIVE Enterprise Solutions for business customers; VIVE X, a US$100M VR business accelerator; and VIVE ARTS for cultural initiatives. HTC's business also includes the spatial collaboration platforms VIVERSE and VIVERSE for Business, HTC smartphones, the VIVE Mars CamTrack virtual production system, and our G REIGNS 5G connectivity solutions. For more information, please visit About VIVERSE VIVERSE is an open and user-centric 3D place that connects people from all walks of life to a boundless virtual world. We strive to empower as many people as possible to explore, work, and play in a safe environment. Every experience is unique, and your transactions and data are secure. VIVERSE provides an array of tools and services for individuals, creators, corporations, and developers to build and explore in this immersive space. Visit the VIVERSE website here:
Yahoo
26-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
HTC Launches VIVERSE Worlds, the Ultimate Destination for 3D Content Exploration
HTC powers the future of the immersive Internet with VIVERSE Worlds, making interactive 3D content accessible to all BERKELEY, Calif. & TAIPEI, Taiwan, February 26, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today VIVERSE, the spatial computing platform by HTC, launched VIVERSE Worlds: the go-to platform for hosting and sharing 3D content online. Just like YouTube did for video, VIVERSE Worlds makes 3D content easy to discover, access, and embed on any website for any device. Today, 3D content is fragmented, costly, and confined to closed ecosystems - limiting its full potential. VIVERSE Worlds intends to change that, providing a solution to address an e-commerce market that is expected to soar to $83.26 trillion by 2030. As a result, retailers will increasingly adopt 3D product showrooms and render technologies as consumers seek 'try before you buy' capabilities and more immersive shopping experiences that drive higher conversion rates. VIVERSE Worlds breaks through these barriers, providing an open, accessible, and immersive online home for creators to build, share, and explore the next generation of 3D experiences. See VIVERSE Worlds in action here. "Talented creators are designing impressive interactive 3D content, but it's not easily consumed or discovered online," said Andranik Aslanyan, Head of Growth, HTC VIVERSE. "VIVERSE Worlds streamlines discoverability and 3D content distribution, serving as the hub for immersive 3D experiences. With features like Embed, Subscribe, and Recommendations, VIVERSE makes it easy for gamers and businesses alike to find, add, and share. The 3D revolution is here, and it's device agnostic." VIVERSE Worlds goes beyond games and avatars, serving solopreneurs to enterprises with 3D manuals, interactive sites, animated displays, Gaussian splats, and immersive e-commerce. Its intuitive UX enables content discovery, recommendations, and creator follows. Users can subscribe to creators for updates and see all their 3D content in one place. Embedding 3D is effortless—simply copy and paste it into any website as an IFrame, all for free. High-fidelity 3D powered by Polygon Streaming Polygon Streaming enables VIVERSE to deliver 3D models at high fidelity in low bandwidth and low compute scenarios eliminating the technical barriers normally faced by web-based 3D content. This technology allows anyone to share detailed, immersive 3D models that can be viewed on any device and platform. Previously, displaying high-quality 3D content in WebXR was challenging due to significant computing requirements. The key innovation is that Polygon Streaming only streams and renders the 3D elements currently visible to users at the currently needed density, making it possible to deliver complex 3D objects and scenes to any device without overwhelming hardware limitations or downloading the entire experience first. Empowering creators with seamless 3D content VIVERSE Worlds is dedicated to web XR and provides creators with a platform to freely host their content. VIVERSE Create will continue to support its integration with the Sketchfab library, giving VIVERSE Worlds users easy access to millions of free models without specialized 3D expertise. Creators will not need to re-create or move their content to support VIVERSE Worlds. No-code, cross-device interactive creation VIVERSE Worlds hosts content created using VIVERSE Create's web builder and VIVERSE Create's PlayCanvas extension. Announced last year, VIVERSE Create is a suite of tools that allows creators to build and share interactive multiplayer worlds on any device—VR headset, mobile, PC, or Mac—without requiring code. The "no install" feature allows everyone to enjoy interactive entertainment without a gaming machine. VIVERSE will be at MWC. Visit them at the HTC booth in Hall 7, #A40. About HTC HTC Corporation aims to bring brilliance to life. As a global innovator in smart mobile devices and technology, HTC has produced award-winning products and industry firsts since its inception in 1997, including the critically acclaimed HTC U and Desire lines of smartphones. The pursuit of brilliance is at the heart of everything we do, inspiring best-in-class design and game-changing mobile and virtual reality experiences for consumers around the world. HTC is listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE: 2498). About VIVERSE VIVERSE is an open and user-centric 3D place that connects people from all walks of life to a boundless virtual world. We strive to empower as many people as possible to explore, work, and play in a safe environment. Every experience is unique, and your transactions and data are secure. VIVERSE provides an array of tools and services for individuals, creators, corporations, and developers to build and explore in this immersive space. Visit the VIVERSE website here: View source version on Contacts Media Contact Amanda Taggart for HTC VIVERSEpress@ Sign in to access your portfolio
