Mosaic Learning named a finalist in challenge to build VR for the world’s tallest building

Columbia-based Mosaic Learning is a finalist in a worldwide challenge to create a virtual reality experience for the world’s tallest building.

Seeking to spur collaboration on virtual reality in the Middle East and North Africa, the Global Virtual Reality Challenge sought teams to create VR for the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. The tower has 163 floors and measures 2,722 feet to the tip. The building’s leadership partnered with the Dubai Future Accelerators initiative of the Dubai Future Foundation and HTC Vive on the effort.

A virtual reality experience was previously released for the United Arab Emirates tower’s observation deck, and the challenge is seeking to explore new types of content for visitors, organizers said when the challenge was announced.

Mosaic Learning, a 14-year-old technology and elearning company, is one of six finalists selected out of 118 applicants. According to CEO Brendan Connors, the company is the only finalist that has 100-percent of its team based in the U.S.

Proud to be a finalist and we are excited for the opportunity to present! https://t.co/dX697Vnu4E

— Mosaic Learning (@MosaicLearning) March 20, 2019

Multimedia Developer Sean Mauney and Unity Developer Dan Sitnick are traveling to Dubai this week to present a prototype on March 27 to 28, Connors said. Project details aren’t being released ahead of the finals. Participants submitted ideas in a first round, then were tasked with creating a storyboard in the second round. The winner will further build out the idea.

Along with a chance to compete globally, creative teams generally look for a chance to “take the gloves off, have a complete open canvas and paint whatever solution you want,” Connors said, on why a half-dozen other team members joined Mauney and Sitnick on the prototype effort. “This was one of those opportunities.”

Mosaic Learning frequently works with virtual and augmented reality: We met up with Mauney at Artscape last July to check out their VR kayak tour of the harbor surrounding the National Aquarium.