Applications
Virtual humans are highly realistic and interactive digital representations of people. They are used in both entertainment and serious applications. In addition to their widespread use in video games and virtual media productions, virtual humans are increasingly seen in roles such as influencers, instructors, newscasters and even as pharmacy assistants, doctors and patients in health care and therapy.
Technology is evolving faster than light. Keeping up with the latest developments, understanding their social applications and mitigating the associated risks is a major challenge. What does this mean for our society? And what does it mean for the individual? MindLabs, the knowledge center for artificial intelligence based in Tilburg, plays a pioneering role in this development. MindLabs coordinates research and development of virtual humans and brings frontrunners such as Breda University of Applied Sciences (BUas), Fontys University, Yonder and Tilburg University together with the business community to jointly gain and share knowledge and develop practical cases.
Welcome to MAI House
The 'Welcome to MAI House' project offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about MAI, MindLabs' virtual human, in an accessible, interactive environment. Visitors enter an experimental space where they can experience how virtual humans function in various interactions.
The house aims not only to show the technical possibilities of virtual humans, but also to initiate a dialogue about their future in our society. How far are we willing to go in using this technology? What are the ethical and social implications? By allowing visitors to interact with MAI themselves, a space is created for reflection on the boundaries between man and machine, and how technology can change the way we communicate and learn.
In “MAI House,” virtuals humans show emotions and allow for natural conversation. Can a virtual human help make someone aware of the importance of good nutrition? Or encourage someone to exercise daily? Also interesting is the role a human avatar can potentially play in the social environment of, for example, a lonely elderly person.
Digital Innovation District for Society
The further development of MAI as a human avatar fits the ambition of Tilburg as a city of innovation. To this end, funds have been made available by the state in the form of a RegioDeal for Central Brabant. Tilburg is fully committed to the young innovation district Spoorzone by stimulating collaborations between knowledge and educational institutions, businesses, governments and social partners, with a pivotal role for MindLabs.
Learn more about Dutch Design Week via the website. 'Welcome to MAI house' is accessible from October 19 to 27 in the Klokgebouw Eindhoven, Hall 3, plot 3.16.