The HIVE

The HIVE (Home for Innovation, Visualization, and Exploration) at the New York Institute of Technology is a premier research and educational lab in emerging technology. Here, students, faculty, and industry partners engage in pioneering work across immersive technology, interactive media, and digital design.

The HIVE serves as a collaborative, hands-on environment supporting creative problem-solving and skill development in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), game design, and human-computer interaction (HCI).

Collaborative Opportunities and Project-Based Learning

The HIVE offers a platform for New York Tech students, faculty from various disciplines, and industry professionals to collaborate on innovative projects. With a range of advanced tools and technologies, teams at the HIVE work on initiatives that may include dedicated courses, workshops, commercial projects, and community-centered programs. The HIVE’s open-door approach encourages interdisciplinary projects, fostering collaborations that drive experimentation and deliver innovative solutions in digital art and technology.

Technology and Facilities

The HIVE lab features a comprehensive suite of advanced technologies, including:

1. Virtual Production and Motion Capture Lab
   The lab is equipped with the latest motion capture systems and VR/AR tools, such as Meta Quest and Oculus headsets, Apple Vision Pro, HTC VIVE, Magic Leap, Microsoft HoloLens, Sony PlayStation VR2, PICO Virtual Reality, Lenovo Explorer, and Samsung Gear VR. This setup supports high-fidelity virtual production and realistic animation, enabling students to create immersive storytelling experiences and interactive designs.
2. UX/UI and User Experience Research (UXR)
   The HIVE lab offers comprehensive UX/UI and UXR resources, including tools for wireframing, prototyping, and conducting in-depth usability testing. These resources empower students to design intuitive, user-centered interfaces and gather data on user behavior, enabling iterative design processes that enhance the overall user experience. Students apply these skills across various interactive media projects, preparing them for careers in digital design and user experience research.
3. Extended Reality (XR) and HCI Research
   Facilities include eye-tracking and mid-air gesture labs, essential for research in user experience and usability testing. This technology allows students to design and test intuitive XR applications that respond to real-world user interactions.
4. AI, Machine Learning (ML), and Computer Vision
   The HIVE lab integrates AI, ML, and computer vision technologies to support automation, image recognition, and intelligent systems projects. Students use these tools to develop innovative applications in interactive media, immersive storytelling, and user-centered experiences, leveraging deep learning models and real-time data processing for diverse experimental and practical applications.
5. Game Design Research Lab
   This specialized lab focuses on integrating AI, narrative design, and game mechanics, equipping students with the tools and knowledge to create engaging and dynamic gaming experiences. The lab’s resources allow students to explore emerging trends in gaming, preparing them for the rapidly evolving gaming and interactive media industries.

Our Mission

The HIVE’s mission is to provide an innovative research and development environment that fosters collaboration among New York Tech students, faculty, and community partners across design, technology, art, and entrepreneurship. The HIVE cultivates a culture of experimentation, skill-building, and creative exploration by offering hands-on experience with immersive technologies such as VR, AR, game design, and human-computer interaction. This interdisciplinary space prepares students to become digital and interactive media leaders, advancing New York Tech’s role as a center for innovation and technical excellence.

Community and Professional Partnerships

The HIVE lab has established strong relationships with renowned organizations, providing students with unique opportunities to work on real-world projects, participate in exhibitions, and showcase their work, all contributing to their professional growth and experience. We look forward to collaborating with community and industry partners in advancing creative, interdisciplinary solutions in immersive technology and digital design.

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