Meet Cathy Hackl, a global business executive and tech futurist whose influence reverberates across industries. On the 14th of May, her newest book Spatial Computing and the AI-Driven Business Revolution, co-authored with Irena Cronin, was released. The reading experience promises invaluable insights into navigating the ever-evolving landscape of technology and virtuality. Renowned for her expertise in Spatial Computing, Cathy advises esteemed companies, brands, cities and governments on transformative journeys into the virtual realm through her company, Spatial Dynamics.
hube: What initially sparked your interest in immersive technologies, and how have you seen the industry evolve since then?
Cathy Hackl: I’ve been in the industry for almost a decade now, so it’s been a while. I come from a broadcast journalism background, so being on TV both in front of the camera and behind the camera, I was already working with technology at that point. I went to an event, put an AVR headset on and it instantly felt like I had just seen the future of storytelling. I saw that this was like a new medium, a new way for us to tell stories, I was very attracted to it and to how powerful it could become. I realised that this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
It was the early days of the VR industry, so it was hard for a woman to cut through the noise. I started learning as much as I could, developing my technical skills and eventually working for bigger companies in that field.
h: A decade is quite a long period. Would you say a lot has changed since then?
CH: My first job in VR was at Future Lighthouse, a cinematic VR studio that worked with everyone from Robert Englund to Rupert Grint. We worked with a whole bunch of different artists in creating virtual reality content. It was a time when we were all learning as we go. Since then, it’s been an evolution of content and a definite evolution in hardware and a lot more people in the industry and a lot more women, which is positive from my perspective. When I got in, it was like the first developer kits for Oculus, and now the tech is so different. If you go from that first version to Metaquest 3 now, it feels like it’s been ages. Or the transition from Magic Leap to Apple Vision Pro. From a content perspective, there’s a lot more of it now than there was before. In the beginning, it was very experimental, which was beautiful in some ways – there were a lot of dreamers.
h: Could you break down the concept of Spatial Computing and shed light on how it’s changing the digital landscape?
CH: People are making Spatial Computing more complicated than it is. They’re trying to use words interchangeably – to say that mixed reality or metaverse in Spatial Computing are the same thing. They’re not. People need to take a step back and understand that what we’re talking about here is a new way of computing – just like the Internet and our mobile phones are not the same thing, the Metaverse and Spatial Computing are not the same thing. When we’re talking about Spatial Computing, we’re talking about a new field of technology. It’s an evolving 3D-centric form of computing that, at its core, uses AI, computer vision, and yes, mixed reality, as well as other technologies to bring virtual experiences into someone’s understanding of the physical world in a new advanced way.
Spatial Computing has four components – hardware, software, connectivity and data. Just like mobile computing, it is not one single device, and it is not one single technology. Think about it this way: computers used to be these gigantic things that had to be stored at specialised offices, and now we can bring them to our homes and put them on our desks. Then you have personal computing and mobile computing, which brought the devices in our hands or computers that we could take on the go. What you see with Spatial Computing is a new iteration, a new form of computing that expands computing into everything you can see, touch and know. And what I mean by that is that you’re starting to access that data layer that we normally see through our phones through hardware. But you will see it right in front of you, bringing it into a physical space.
h: In the world of Spatial Computing, how does AI play a key role strategically, and what does it bring to the bigger picture?
CH: AI serves as a crucial foundation for Spatial Computing. It’s essential to recognise that we’ve reached this juncture in Spatial Computing’s evolution thanks in part to the advancements in the industry, both in hardware and software, as well as the progress in AI. Take, for instance, the Apple Vision Pro device. It’s packed with an array of technologies, including computer vision and AI. This device essentially interprets your physical surroundings, constantly scanning and updating its understanding of the world around you. With approximately 12 cameras onboard, it employs sophisticated computer vision algorithms to analyse your environment. Some may overlook this aspect and assume that Apple lags in AI development. However, from my perspective, they’re quite ahead of the curve. While they might not have made headlines with large language models (LLMs) yet, their utilisation of computer vision and AI in these devices is noteworthy. What’s intriguing is exploring novel ways of interacting with AI. Think about it – whether you’re using ChatGPT, perplexity, or any other LLMs you’re fixated on, you’re doing so on a computer or phone. This evolution in hardware and software represents an AI endeavour, providing platforms for AI engagement. That’s why individuals like Sam Altman hail the Apple Vision Pro as a remarkable technology – perhaps ranking it second only to the iPhone. AI serves as a fundamental component of Spatial Computing, and computer vision plays a pivotal role in the functionality of these devices. It’s important to understand that AI and Spatial Computing aren’t adversaries; they’re complementary technologies. This isn’t a competition; we’re discussing distinct technological paradigms and computing modalities.
h: Diving into innovation, could you share some stories about how Spatial Dynamics, your groundbreaking venture, came to be and what goals it aims to achieve? For a more in-depth understanding, could you walk us through the key strategic elements behind the launch of Spatial Dynamics?
CH: Towards the end of last year, I became an Apple Vision Pro developer and had the opportunity to test the device before many others did. Obviously, I couldn’t discuss it then, but when I witnessed its capabilities, I was convinced that it epitomised the future of computing. Given my background at Magic Leap and my passion for Spatial Computing, I felt a strong urge to launch a new tech company focusing on Spatial Computing and AI solutions. I wanted to transition from primarily offering services to providing solutions. This decision came about swiftly, fueled by passion and surrounded by incredible individuals. We’re at the dawn of what mobile once was, and I believe it’s an opportune moment to start a company. Just as Uber and Airbnb emerged with the mobile revolution, new companies will arise with the Spatial Computing revolution. Moreover, there’s a pool of exceptional talent available, especially with recent layoffs in the gaming and tech industries. I feel fortunate to have assembled a remarkable team. They’re truly exceptional, and I’m the least technical person among them. Our company is strategically structured as a solutions provider, with proprietary technology tailored for the Vision Pro. We have a unique tech stack that sets us apart. I envision Spatial Dynamics growing and becoming an attractive acquisition target for larger players within 18 months to two years. Our mission is clear – we aim to provide solutions rather than services. Our primary focus has been on building a team with unparalleled expertise in the field. We’ve brought together individuals with decades of experience in developing spatial experiences. Our goal is to ensure that our team comprises highly skilled individuals with deep knowledge of the space. This consideration, along with our burgeoning client base, solidified my decision. Unfortunately, I can’t divulge too many details about the companies we’re already collaborating with.
h: What can you tell us about your upcoming book Spatial Computing and AI-driven Revolution?
CH: My new book is set to release on May 14. You can find it at spatialcomputingbook.com titled ‘Spatial Computing and the AI-Driven Business Revolution’. I co-authored it with Irena Cronin, a veteran in the emerging tech space. As two women and female tech experts, we collaborated to create a definitive guide for business professionals interested in Spatial Computing.
It’s published by Wiley, and I believe it will serve as an excellent resource for understanding the trajectory of computing and the role of Spatial Computing in AI. We delve into the intersection between these technologies and explore the developments in AR, VR and AI that led to this moment. Additionally, we discuss the implications for business leaders and how to build teams capable of navigating this space.
This book fills a significant gap in the literature, offering insights tailored to a business audience rather than a highly technical one. I’m excited about its release and confident that it will be a valuable resource for many.
h: In your opinion, what are the most exciting developments in virtual reality and augmented reality today?
CH: Spatial video is at the forefront, especially with Meta beginning to support it. Spatial video represents a new content type that offers immersive 3D experiences, akin to reliving moments. I recently shot some spatial video on my phone and watched it on my Vision Pro, and the experience was remarkable. It’s like the future of family photos, enhancing how we communicate and share experiences. With Meta backing spatial video, I’m thrilled about its potential as a content type.
On the hardware front, we’re witnessing the evolution of transitional equipment, moving us closer to devices that will eventually replace our computers and mobile phones. While devices like the Apple Vision Pro and Metaquest 3 are impressive, we haven’t reached the ultimate device yet. Meta has hinted at unveiling something groundbreaking this year, possibly a prototype. Additionally, Microsoft might reenter the space with advancements in AI and wearables. I believe we’re entering an era of Spatial Computing and AI wearables, and the next 18 to 24 months will see significant developments in hardware and content creation to support these advancements.
h: How do you envision integrating augmented reality into everyday life, and what implications might this have for society?
CH: Integrating AR and VR into everyday life will involve bringing virtual experiences into the physical world, not necessarily full immersion, but a mixed reality approach. This means adding a layer of context to the physical world through devices, transforming every space into a potential interface for creativity, entertainment, work, and more. With these devices, users can have multiple screens and work with virtual keyboards, changing how we work and communicate. This evolution will redefine human-to-human communication and human-computer interaction.
Courtesy of CATHY HACKL and AMAZON
h: Would you say there could be any negative consequences of that?
CH: Yes, indeed. Privacy concerns arise as these devices collect more data about our surroundings. Questions about virtual air rights and ownership of the space around us, also emerge. Additionally, issues like the ethical training of large vision models and the legal implications of who owns the space in the physical world will need careful consideration.
h: What emerging trends do you see shaping the future of VR and AR, and how could businesses stay ahead of the curve?
CH: In my recent article for the Harvard Business Review, I discussed how early adopters are approaching Apple Vision Pro and Spatial Computing. Integrating digital teams with XR teams, understanding the capabilities of new devices, and focusing on developing content that fully utilises mixed reality capabilities are essential. Trends like spatial video, large vision models, and advancements in AI will drive the evolution of VR and AR, requiring businesses to adapt and innovate.
h: How could VR and AR contribute to education, and what potential do these technologies hold for transforming learning experiences for future generations?
CH: VR and AR have already shown promise in education, enabling immersive learning experiences. These technologies allow users to learn in real time, interact with virtual environments, and access information in innovative ways. They have the potential to revolutionise education by providing hands-on learning opportunities, facilitating understanding of complex concepts, and enhancing engagement. From virtual field trips to interactive simulations, VR and AR offer endless possibilities for transforming education.
h: Being named one of Ad Age’s Leading Women of 2023 and Forbes Latam’s 100 Most Powerful Women of 2023 is remarkable. How do you believe your influence is shaping the narrative around women in technology, and what more do you think could be done to encourage female participation in the tech industry?
CH: I see myself as a lighthouse, guiding others and empowering future generations of women and minorities in technology. While I’ve faced challenges and worked hard to reach where I am today, I recognise the importance of using my position to inspire others. Celebrating the achievements of women who came before me and paving the way for those who come after me is essential. By being a visible advocate and mentor, I aim to encourage greater female participation in the tech industry and foster diversity and inclusion.
