20MINUTES | Virtual Reality, this Nantes native wants to turn us all into 3D avatars!

To mark Edouard Deslandes’s presentation during Nantes Digital Week, the daily newspaper 20minutes has published an article on silkke’s innovations

A mini-me for 12 euros

As the 4th edition of Nantes Digital Week is in full swing, this completely crazy concept could soon be coming to around a hundred locations, including some in Nantes.

“Like a photo booth, you’ll find these pods in airports, shopping malls, specialty stores…,” explains Edouard Deslandes, the founder of silkke.

For now, Nantes residents who want to try it out can check it out at the Cité des Congrès this Saturday and Sunday. Inside, for 12 euros, a hundred sensors will scan you from head to toe. An hour later, your animated mini-me will be sent to your smartphone, accessible via an app. Users will find games to start their new virtual life, such as a quick game of tennis.

3D worlds “devoid of humanity”

“With what we call the metaverse, Oculus, or Google Glass, we’re entering a new wave of the Internet,” says Edouard Deslandes, who is aiming for international expansion. “But the new 3D worlds created are, for now, devoid of humanity. The avatar will allow people to see each other in real time, chat, and create communities—all in a much more personalized way.”

While brands are increasingly focusing on immersive experiences (virtual fitting rooms, designing your kitchen as if you were there…), silkke claims to have already won over major clients and hopes for a real hit.