3D Interstitial Ads

3D ads inside Apple Vision Pro?

Don't get me wrong, I think majority of people (myself included) would find this particular prototype an overwhelming and intrusive form of introjected advertisement—some may even say a dystopian use of spatial computing. However, I believe there are times when advertisements can seamlessly integrate into experiences that insinuate feelings of delight for the viewer while boosting brand recognition for the company being advertised. I think interstitial ads with very subtle incorporation of 3D content—when executed thoughtfully—could be something that viewers might actually enjoy if done right.

This was built by including #EXT-X-DATERANGE tags inside the .m3u8 file being fetched, then opening and dismissing mixed content inside the space according to the playback of the interstitial mid-roll time sets, or when that mid-roll is skipped.

This was my first time working with the HLS spec, and immediately my mind wondered "could the spec be ammended to allow for fetching of .usdz files?" I'm sure there are many nuances that I'm overlooking with this thought, such as the need to include device recognition that identifies whether the target hardware can even render .usdz files in the first place as spatial objects, then have a fallback for non-USD capable devices.

But let's fantasize for a moment that this barrier is solved for; I would be ecstatic at the chance to create incredibly engaging Super Bowl commercials, or being able to offer opt-in 3D experiences for ad viewing when watching YouTube or Netflix shows. Even for products or movie trailers, having the option to persist 3D elements from the advertisement that was just played as volumetric windows that live in your space as you continue your viewing experience would be a truly new way to ingest media.