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I’m thrilled to announce that Second Life is taking a significant leap forward by implementing support for WebRTC Voice. This development promises a host of benefits for all Residents, enhancing the overall communication experience within our virtual world.

Higher Quality Audio for Voice

One of the standout features of WebRTC Voice is the superior audio quality it brings. Conversations will be clearer, more natural, and far more immersive. This improvement ensures that every word spoken in Second Life sounds as if the person is right there with you.

Improved Security

Security is paramount, and with WebRTC Voice, it’s being taken to the next level. The new system enhances privacy and protects conversations from potential eavesdropping. This means that interactions are more secure, allowing everyone to communicate with greater confidence.

Independence from Third-Party Providers

WebRTC Voice removes the dependency on external third-party providers for voice services. This shift means that Second Life now has greater control over the voice features, ensuring better reliability and consistency. The overall experience becomes smoother, and potential issues related to third-party integrations are eliminated.

Simpler Setup Behind Firewalls and Private Networks

Setting up voice communication in complex network environments can be challenging. However, WebRTC Voice simplifies this process, making it easier to establish connections even from behind firewalls or private networks. This accessibility ensures that more Residents can enjoy seamless voice communication without technical hurdles.

Enhanced Control of Voice Features

With WebRTC Voice, there is greater control over voice features directly within Second Life. This includes the ability to select audio devices, enjoy stereo audio, benefit from noise reduction, automatic gain control, and echo cancellation. These features collectively contribute to a richer, more enjoyable voice communication experience.

Exciting WebRTC Features

The array of WebRTC features is impressive. Audio device selection allows for personalized setups, ensuring the best possible audio experience. Stereo audio provides a more immersive sound environment. Noise reduction, automatic gain control, and echo cancellation ensure that conversations are clear and free from common audio issues. These features work together to create an optimal voice communication environment within Second Life.

Beta Testing and Future Availability

WebRTC Voice will initially be deployed on the Beta Grid (Aditi) to gather feedback and perform rigorous testing. This process ensures that any issues are addressed and the system is robust before being rolled out grid-wide. The goal is to have WebRTC Voice supported in the default Viewer, offering the enhanced features to all Residents.

Compatibility and Call Behavior

It’s important to note that peer-to-peer voice calls, ad hoc voice calls, and group call behavior are independent of the region’s voice settings. In the new viewer, incoming calls will always function seamlessly. Outgoing calls from the new viewer will utilize WebRTC and will not be compatible with the old viewer. This shift ensures a modernized and efficient voice communication system moving forward.

Looking Ahead

The implementation of WebRTC Voice in Second Life is a major milestone. This enhancement promises to elevate the voice communication experience, offering higher quality audio, improved security, greater control, and a host of advanced features. I eagerly anticipate the feedback from the Beta Grid and look forward to the day when these improvements are available to all Residents.

By embracing WebRTC Voice, Second Life continues to innovate and enhance the virtual world experience, ensuring that it remains a vibrant, engaging, and secure place for all its Residents

June was a month of vibrant celebration and heartfelt unity in Second Life as the community came together to honor Pride Month. This annual event, dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community, was a testament to the love, support, and solidarity that define Second Life. The Pride Event celebration spanned the entire month of June, featuring a series of events and activities that brought people from all corners of this virtual world together.

In Second Life, the Pride Month was more than just a celebration; it was a powerful statement of inclusivity and acceptance. Throughout June, I witnessed an outpouring of support for the LGBTQ+ community. Rainbow flags adorned virtual landscapes, and avatars proudly wore Pride-themed outfits, creating a visually stunning and emotionally uplifting atmosphere. It was a time for everyone to express their true selves and show unwavering support for the diversity that makes Second Life so special.

One of the highlights of the Pride Month was the variety of events held in different parts of Second Life. From lively parades and dance parties to educational workshops and art exhibitions, there was something for everyone. These events were meticulously planned and executed, showcasing the creativity and passion of the Second Life community. I participated in numerous events, each one offering a unique experience and a chance to connect with others who share a commitment to equality and acceptance.

In the virtual world of Second Life, I explored beautifully designed Pride-themed regions that served as gathering points for the community. These regions were filled with colorful decorations, interactive exhibits, and spaces for meaningful conversations. It was incredible to see how the digital landscape was transformed to reflect the spirit of Pride. From the bustling streets of virtual cities to the serene landscapes of tranquil islands, every corner of Second Life was alive with the energy and enthusiasm of the Pride celebration.

The support for the LGBTQ+ community was evident in every aspect of the Pride Month. I attended panel discussions featuring prominent voices from the community, where important topics such as identity, representation, and allyship were discussed. These discussions provided valuable insights and fostered a sense of understanding and empathy among participants. It was inspiring to see how Second Life serves as a platform for meaningful dialogue and education on LGBTQ+ issues.

In addition to the educational events, there were numerous opportunities for entertainment and socializing. I danced the night away at virtual clubs, attended live music performances, and participated in costume contests that showcased the creativity and individuality of the community. These events were not only fun but also served as a reminder of the joy and resilience that define the LGBTQ+ experience.

The Pride Event in Second Life also extended beyond the virtual world. I joined charity fundraisers and donation drives aimed at supporting real-world LGBTQ+ organizations. It was heartwarming to see the generosity of the Second Life community and their commitment to making a positive impact both online and offline. The funds raised during these events will go a long way in supporting initiatives that promote equality, provide resources, and advocate for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.

As Pride Month came to a close, I reflected on the profound sense of belonging and connection that I experienced throughout the celebrations. The Second Life community came together in a remarkable way, demonstrating that even in a virtual world, the bonds of love and support are incredibly real. The Pride Event was a beautiful reminder that Second Life is a place where everyone can be their authentic selves and find acceptance and friendship.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the future of Pride celebrations in Second Life. The success of this year’s event sets a high standard for the years to come. I am confident that the community will continue to innovate and create even more memorable experiences that celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity. In Second Life, Pride is not just a month-long event; it is a continuous commitment to supporting and uplifting the LGBTQ+ community every day of the year.

In conclusion, the Pride Event in Second Life was a resounding success, filled with joy, love, and a strong sense of community. It was an honor to be part of such a meaningful celebration, and I am proud to be a member of the Second Life community. The support and solidarity shown during Pride Month are a testament to the values that make Second Life a truly special place. I look forward to continuing this journey of acceptance and inclusivity in the years to come.

Throughout June, the Pride Event in Second Life brought a wave of excitement and joy to the virtual world. I attended events that were both entertaining and educational, each designed to foster a sense of community and solidarity. The Pride Event was a testament to the resilience and creativity of the LGBTQ+ community in Second Life. I participated in lively parades that filled the streets with color and music, and I danced the night away at virtual clubs where DJs played the best Pride anthems. These moments of celebration were more than just fun; they were a powerful reminder of the importance of visibility and acceptance.

One of the most memorable aspects of the Pride Event in Second Life was the sense of unity and connection that I felt. I met people from all over the world, each bringing their unique stories and experiences to the celebration. The diversity of the community was truly remarkable, and it was a privilege to be part of such an inclusive and supportive environment. Whether I was attending a dance party, exploring a Pride-themed region, or participating in a panel

Second Life is getting some exciting new features that will make the world look even better. The arrival of new mirrors, PBR terrain, and 2K textures promises to revolutionize the visual experience for all residents. Let me take you through these incredible updates and how they will enhance our virtual lives.

Mirrors are arriving soon! While I love the realistic reflections PBR materials enable, new mirrors take reflections to a whole new level. Creating a new mirror in Second Life is now easier than ever. By using a method similar to reflection probes with a twist, I can set a reflection probe to the “Mirror” option, and all surfaces near the probe will exhibit a real-time mirror reflection, including PBR and legacy materials.

This method offers maximum flexibility. For example, I can create a big wall of mirrors and have minimal performance impact regardless of how many mirrors are on that wall. As long as they’re aligned with the mirror reflection probe, they can all show a mirror reflection. To conserve performance, mirrors are subject to some limitations. The Viewer will show the effect of only one mirror reflection probe at a time — the one closest to my camera. Mirrors are planar, so they won’t work very well on the body of a car, for example. Like so many good things in life, mirrors are best enjoyed in moderation.

Another fantastic feature is the application of PBR materials to terrain. In the upcoming featurettes release, I will be able to apply most GLTF materials to terrain. Initially, PBR terrain will support normal maps and metallic-roughness maps. Emissive textures might not be visible on some machines, and transparent materials are not fully supported yet. However, PBR materials on terrain are expected to vastly improve the beauty of Second Life because there’s a lot of terrain out there!

PBR terrain uses triplanar mapping, a texture-mapping technique new to Second Life. On steep slopes, I will notice far less texture-stretching. To conserve performance, triplanar mapping will be enabled only when the graphics quality setting is set to “High” or greater. This means that even on high slopes, textures will look more natural and less distorted.

And let’s not forget the impact of 2K textures. Higher resolution textures mean more detail and sharper images. In Second Life, I can now enjoy a more immersive and visually stunning environment with these enhanced textures. From the intricate designs on clothing to the detailed landscapes, 2K textures elevate the overall aesthetic of the virtual world.

These updates are not just about making things look pretty; they are about enhancing the overall experience. The introduction of new mirrors, PBR terrain, and 2K textures will add depth and realism to Second Life, making every interaction more engaging and visually appealing. As I explore the world, I will find new ways to utilize these features to create breathtaking scenes and innovative designs.

The addition of mirrors will allow for more creative builds and realistic environments. Imagine walking through a hall of mirrors or seeing a reflection in a window as you pass by. These small details add to the immersion and make Second Life feel more alive. The flexibility in creating mirror surfaces means I can experiment with different setups and achieve the desired effect without worrying about performance issues.

PBR terrain will change how I perceive the landscapes in Second Life. With triplanar mapping, I will see less texture stretching on steep slopes, making the terrain look more natural. The support for normal maps and metallic-roughness maps means that terrain can have more depth and detail. Whether it’s a rocky mountain or a sandy beach, the textures will look more realistic and visually appealing.

2K textures will bring a new level of detail to everything in Second Life. From clothing to furniture, the higher resolution will make objects look more refined and crisp. This means that the virtual world will be even more engaging, with intricate details that make every scene come to life. As I explore, I will appreciate the effort put into creating a visually stunning environment.In conclusion, the new features of new mirrors, PBR terrain, and 2K textures in Second Life are set to transform the visual experience. These updates will add realism, detail, and flexibility, enhancing the overall immersion of the virtual world. Whether I am building, exploring, or simply enjoying the scenery, these improvements will make Second Life even more captivating and beautiful. I look forward to exploring the possibilities and seeing how these features will be utilized by the creative community in Second Life.

I am thrilled to celebrate a monumental milestone: 21 years of Second Life! This incredible journey through the virtual worlds has been nothing short of amazing. From its inception to becoming the vibrant and diverse community it is today, Second Life has truly stood the test of time. Reflecting on the past 21 years, I see a rich tapestry woven with countless memories, friendships, and experiences that have shaped this unique virtual universe.

The Evolution of Second Life

Second Life began as a groundbreaking experiment in creating a 3D virtual world where users could live, work, and play. Over the years, it has evolved into a thriving community that spans the globe. The innovation and creativity displayed by the residents of Second Life are truly inspiring. From building stunning virtual landscapes to creating intricate avatars, the possibilities in Second Life are limitless.

The platform has continually adapted to the changing digital landscape, introducing new features and improvements to enhance the user experience. The introduction of mesh, advanced scripting, and virtual reality integration are just a few examples of how Second Life has remained at the forefront of virtual world technology.

A Community Like No Other

One of the most remarkable aspects of Second Life is its community. The bonds formed within this virtual world are genuine and lasting. I have seen friendships blossom, love stories unfold, and communities thrive. Residents come together to share their passions, whether it’s through art, music, education, or social causes. The diversity of interests and cultures represented in Second Life is truly a testament to the inclusive nature of this platform.

Events and gatherings are a cornerstone of the Second Life experience. Over the past 21 years, I have participated in countless celebrations, concerts, and festivals that bring people together from all corners of the globe. These events showcase the creativity and talent of the Second Life community, making each experience memorable and unique.

Exploring Virtual Worlds

Exploration is at the heart of Second Life. The virtual world is vast and varied, with endless destinations to discover. From serene beaches and bustling cities to fantastical realms and historical recreations, there is something for everyone. The creativity of the residents knows no bounds, and every corner of Second Life offers something new and exciting.

As I journey through Second Life, I am constantly amazed by the stunning landscapes and intricate details that residents have crafted. The sense of immersion and wonder is unparalleled, making every exploration a new adventure. Whether I’m wandering through a lush forest, visiting a bustling marketplace, or attending a live performance, Second Life never ceases to captivate my imagination.

Celebrating Milestones and Looking to the Future

Celebrating 21 years of Second Life is not just about looking back; it’s also about looking forward. The future of Second Life is bright, with endless possibilities on the horizon. As technology continues to evolve, so too does the potential for innovation within this virtual world. I am excited to see how Second Life will continue to grow and adapt, offering new experiences and opportunities for residents.

The introduction of new features, such as the Second Life Mobile app, opens up even more possibilities for connecting and exploring on the go. The mobile app brings the richness of the Second Life experience to the palm of my hand, allowing me to stay connected with friends and communities anytime, anywhere.

Personal Reflections and Gratitude

Reflecting on my journey in Second Life, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and connections I have made. The friendships forged and the memories created within this virtual world are truly priceless. Second Life has provided a platform for creativity, expression, and connection that is unlike any other.

I am grateful to be a part of this vibrant community and to have witnessed the incredible growth and evolution of Second Life over the past 21 years. The dedication and passion of the residents continue to inspire me every day.

Join the Celebration

As I celebrate this remarkable milestone, I invite everyone to join in the festivities. Whether you are a long-time resident or new to Second Life, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Participate in special events, explore new destinations, and connect with fellow residents as we commemorate 21 years of Second Life.

Second Life has truly stood the test of time, and I am excited to see what the future holds. The journey is far from over, and there are countless adventures yet to come. Here’s to 21 years of Second Life and many more to come!

We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone: the official Second Life Mobile app is now available in beta for all active Premium and Premium Plus members!

The Second Life Mobile app brings the richness and beauty of our virtual world to your mobile phones and tablets. Now, you can stay connected and socialize with your friends and communities anytime, anywhere. Explore a diverse universe of places while on the go and style your avatar—all from the palm of your hand.

Key Features of the Second Life Mobile App:

• Stay Connected: Engage with your friends and communities anytime, anywhere.
• Explore On-the-Go: Discover a diverse array of locations, whether you’re on the bus, at the park, or relaxing at home.
• Avatar Customization: Style your avatar with ease, directly from your mobile device.

The launch of Second Life Mobile Beta is an exciting development for all virtual world enthusiasts. With the app now available to Premium and Premium Plus members, it’s easier than ever to immerse yourself in the Second Life experience. This mobile app ensures that the captivating virtual world of Second Life is always at your fingertips.

Why You Should Try Second Life Mobile:

1. Convenience: Access Second Life from your mobile device anytime, anywhere.
2. Socialize on the Go: Stay connected with your friends and make new ones while exploring.
3. Dynamic Experience: Enjoy the same rich and diverse experiences as on your desktop.

Join the beta today and become a part of the growing mobile community in Second Life. Experience the freedom and flexibility of accessing your favorite virtual world wherever you are.

For more details and to download the beta version, visit Second Life Mobile. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to bring Second Life to your mobile device!

What is Relay For Life?

Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society’s signature fundraising event, bringing together communities to join the fight against cancer. This event offers everyone a chance to participate, regardless of their background or lifestyle. Teams of people from various walks of life come together to raise essential funds, while also promoting awareness about cancer prevention and treatment. Participants often camp out at local venues like high schools, parks, or fairgrounds, taking turns to walk or run around a track or path. Each team ensures that a representative is on the track at all times during the event. Traditional Relays are overnight events, lasting up to 24 hours, symbolizing the relentless fight against cancer.

Relay For Life of Second Life

Relay For Life of Second Life (RFL of SL) is the American Cancer Society’s flagship event within the virtual world of Second Life. Since its inception in 2005, RFL of SL has been a growing force in the battle against cancer. The first event in 2005 saw a few hundred avatars participating and raising almost $5,000 for the American Cancer Society. Over the years, the event has grown significantly, with the 2014 RFL of SL event ranking number 17 out of 5,000 events worldwide in terms of donations received. By 2023, Second Life residents had raised over $4.7 million to support cancer research and patient services.

The next Relay event in Second Life is set for June 10-11, 2023. This event is open to everyone on the grid, inviting all to join in the effort to combat cancer. Whether you’re new to Second Life or a long-time resident, your participation and support are invaluable in this ongoing fight.

Participating in Relay For Life of Second Life

Taking part in Relay For Life of Second Life offers a unique and impactful way to contribute to the fight against cancer. In this virtual environment, participants can form teams, set up campsites, and walk or run laps around virtual tracks, much like in the physical world. The sense of community and shared purpose is strong, as avatars from around the globe come together to support this important cause.

Each team at RFL of SL is encouraged to have a representative on the track at all times during the event, just as in traditional Relays. This continuous presence symbolizes the ongoing fight against cancer, reminding everyone that the battle is fought around the clock. The virtual nature of Second Life allows for creative and engaging activities, from themed laps and virtual entertainment to memorials and survivor celebrations.

Fundraising and Awareness

Fundraising is a core component of Relay For Life of Second Life. Teams and participants engage in various activities and events throughout the year to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. These efforts are crucial in supporting cancer research, patient services, and prevention programs. The virtual platform of Second Life offers unique opportunities for fundraising, such as virtual auctions, concerts, and sales of virtual goods, all contributing to the cause.

Awareness is another vital aspect of Relay For Life of Second Life. By participating and spreading the word, individuals help educate others about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options. The event also serves as a platform to honor survivors, remember those lost to cancer, and inspire hope for a future without cancer.

Community and Support

The sense of community within Relay For Life of Second Life is profound. Participants often form lasting friendships and connections, united by a common goal. The support network within this virtual world extends beyond the event itself, offering a space for individuals to share their stories, find comfort, and encourage one another.

The Relay For Life of Second Life community is inclusive and welcoming, inviting everyone to join the cause. Whether you are directly affected by cancer or simply want to support the fight, your involvement makes a difference. Every avatar, every step, and every donation contributes to the collective effort to defeat cancer.

Until There is a Cure, I Relay

Relay For Life of Second Life is more than just a fundraising event; it is a symbol of hope, determination, and community. By participating, I join thousands of others in a shared mission to eradicate cancer. Every step taken in Second Life brings us closer to a cure, and every dollar raised supports vital research and patient care. Until there is a cure, I will continue to Relay, supporting this noble cause in both the virtual and real worlds.

Join me and the many others in Second Life as we come together for Relay For Life. Let’s make a difference, one virtual step at a time.