Catholic Vancouver November 09, 2017
CEO explores possibilities of new tech in culture, faith, and education
By Agnieszka Ruck
Wilson Tang founded of Yumebau, a "cultural augmentation company," this summer. He will be speaking about new virtual and augmented reality technology Nov. 17. (Photo courtesy Wilson Tang)
VANCOUVER—The Catholic founder of a brand-new augmented and virtual reality company says the possibilities with new technology are endless.
“There’s a whole lot of technology that’s coming together, including display hardware, artificial intelligence, and game design, that allows people to experience virtual objects in the real world,” said Wilson Tang, CEO of Yumebau Inc.
Many people are familiar with Pokemon Go, a game that allowed users to find virtual objects in the real world. Tang hopes to take technology much, much further.
“There is potential for education as well as cultural tourism and religion,” he said. For example, not everyone has the physical or economic means to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Through augmented and visual reality, “we’re able to bring these experiences to people wherever they are,” he said. “The potential is endless.”
Tang founded Yumebau this summer. He’s excited to explore ways to use brand-new technology to inform, educate, and inspire, especially when it comes to students in the Catholic school system.
“We can reach a whole new generation of students and kids who are used to using these very compelling things, like video games or augmented reality. It can teach them the Bible but also any subject, like physics or mathematics.”
Tang, who has worked for EA Games and co-founded entertainment company Kabam, admits virtual reality technology can be used for good, for ill, or as a distraction from real life.
“I am looking for some way to use this media for something of value, not just a distraction,” said Tang. “I’m proud of my work and I love movies and games, but with this I’m hoping to do something different.”
Tang will be the featured speaker at a meet and greet at the John Paul II Pastoral Centre Nov. 17. The event is hosted by Catholic Creators, a network of professional writers, photographers, designers, and other creatives.
“I’m hoping people will see this new medium for what it can be,” said Tang.
The free event is open to anyone. More information and registration is at www.rcav.org/digital/#meet.