IDFA DocLab The Immersive Network R&D program

IDFA DocLab and the MIT Open Documentary Lab are jointly committed to a five-year research program around immersive and interactive media. This program explores how new technologies - such as virtual reality, augmented reality, AI and deepfakes - can be used responsibly, creatively and accessibly within art, media and society.

The project acts as a living laboratory bringing together creators, researchers, technology partners and audiences. The focus is on fundamental research questions: how do we make immersive experiences more social, inclusive and meaningful? And how do we create sustainable ecosystems in which innovative media forms can grow beyond the big tech platforms?

In recent years, the program has presented more than 175 projects worldwide and laid the groundwork for new forms of art, narrative and audience participation. Over the next five years, this approach will be deepened. Central to this will be experimentation, artistic autonomy and knowledge sharing - with a particular focus on ethics, accessibility and impact.

By working with diverse partners and disciplines, bridges are built between technology, art, science and social issues. In this way, the program contributes to the development of a fairer, more sustainable and creative digital media landscape.

There will be €400,000 as a PPP program grant.