BUSINESS NEWS
Tizzy the season for augmented reality
An augmented reality ( AR ) elf developed by a Swindon tech expert is ready to spread some festive fun this Christmas .
Keith Milburn has created Tizzy the Elf , a children ’ s app that uses AR technology to bring the elf to life . With the use of a tablet or smartphone , app users can see Tizzy in their house , make her dance , take selfies with her and explore a range of other features .
Using his background in augmented and virtual reality , Keith developed the app as an alternative to the elf-on-the-shelf trend . Combining his passion for AR and his son ’ s love of Christmas , the idea of Tizzy was put into development .
He said , “ It was a real journey getting started , from working with a local illustrator to develop the first idea of what Tizzy looked like , to then turning that into a digital model that can move and dance . Local business networks really helped as I literally didn ’ t know anyone .
“ I ’ ve created Tizzy using AR which means that you can see what appears to be a real elf , arriving through a secret door in any wall of your house , jumping out , dancing and getting up to mischief , via any Android or Apple smart device .”
Keith plans to develop the app each year , adding new functionality and harnessing the power of ever-evolving AR tech . Educational elements are also planned for the future .
If you would like to download Tizzy the Elf , just head to the app store on any Android or Apple device . Follow Tizzy on social media @ TizzyTheElf
SWINDON ’ S FESTIVAL OF TOMORROW GETS BOOST FROM ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND
Swindon ’ s successful Festival of Tomorrow will be back for its fourth year , after receiving a grant from the Arts Council of England . Thanks to the support , the festival will combine science and the arts , teaming up with artists and Swindon arts organisations to find new ways to help people explore the science , technology and discoveries that will shape the future .
The festival which takes place every February , and will include a dedicated programme for Swindon schools , free half-term activities across town , and a two day hybrid event at The Deanery CE Academy in Wichelstowe on Friday 17th and Saturday 18th February .
Rod Hebden , Festival of Tomorrow Director , said , “ We ’ re delighted that Arts Council England are supporting Swindon , by getting behind the festival . The links between science , technology and the arts are greater than the divide between them . Scientists and innovators are naturally creative , and the arts provide a powerful lens to see the world and its possibilities in new ways .”
Ian Larrard , Director at Business West Swindon and Wiltshire Initiative , added , “ We ’ ve been proud to support the Festival of Tomorrow since it launched in 2020 , so we ’ re pleased to see its impact being recognised . Science , arts and culture are critical to the future of Swindon . Innovative and exciting programmes like the Festival of Tomorrow have the potential to drive economic growth and attract great employers and a skilled workforce to the town , so we ’ d encourage all of Swindon to get behind it !”
Whilst organisers are keeping tight-lipped about what is in store next February , they will have a big job to top the events of the last year , which saw mammoths , robotic dogs , climate scientists and rocket shows for Swindon families to explore .
Organisations including Swindonbased UK Research and Innovation ( UKRI ), the UK Space Agency , The James Dyson Foundation , and the Science Museum Group and several leading universities will be supporting the festival yet again , with hands-on science , talks , shows and workshops to give people of all ages and backgrounds the chance to share in the latest discoveries and technologies which will help shape our future .
To be the first in line for tickets and to hear the latest announcements , sign up for updates by visiting www . festivaloftomorrow . com
Festival of Tomorrow Director Rod Hebden was recently recognised for his Outstanding Contribution to Swindon and Wiltshire Tech at the Techies Awards 2022 . Read more on page 16 .
4 www . tbeswindonandwilts . co . uk