Connect with us

Technology

WITH ANTISEMITISM AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH, JUST AHEAD OF KRISTALLNACHT, IMMERSIVE XR EXPERIENCE LAUNCHES, GIVING VIEWERS UNPRECEDENTED LOOK INSIDE A PIVOTAL MOMENT IN THE HOLOCAUST

Published

2 years ago

on

The Claims Conference With Partners, USC Shoah Foundation, Meta, Makemepulse And UNESCO Release A cutting edge Mixed-Reality Experience Detailing The Fear-Provoking Time During And After Kristallnacht – The Night Of Broken Glass.

NEW YORK, Oct. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Today, just ahead of the 86th anniversary of Kristallnacht, the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference) announced the launch of Inside Kristallnacht, an unprecedented, mixed-reality project bringing users inside the Night of Broken Glass, when words of hate led to actions of hate. Viewers will undergo Holocaust survivor and activist, Dr. Charlotte Knobloch’s harrowing experience of survival from Kristallnacht through the end of the Holocaust. This experience, illustrating the dangers of unchecked hate, launches at a time when antisemitism is at an all-time high.

Gideon Taylor, President of the Claims Conference said, “This level of technology isn’t just giving a powerful experience – it provides learning opportunities that can reach an audience in a very personal way. Allowing individuals to feel as though they are on the street in the aftermath of Kristallnacht enables them not just to learn about what happened at the onset of World War II but to understand it in a very immersive way. This is the kind of education we need to reach future generations who will be far removed from the experience of hearing the first-hand testimonies of survivors.”

Dr. Charlotte Knobloch, the Holocaust survivor on which Inside Kristallnacht is based, was born in 1932 in Munich, Germany. She eloquently recounts the night of November 9, 1938, when as a six-year-old she walked through the terrifyingly volatile streets with her father. It was the historic moment when a growing hatred peaked, catalyzing into acts of violence and rage, when citizens turned on their longtime neighbors, roaming the streets in mobs, breaking the glass of Jewish homes and shops. The Claims Conference commissioned the USC Shoah Foundation and immersive technology company makemepulse to create a sensitive and evocative mixed-reality experience animating Knobloch’s memories in a powerful, minimalist way, delivering to users a deeper, more emotional understanding of Knobloch’s survival, of Kristallnacht and of the years that followed.

Dr. Charlotte Knobloch, Holocaust survivor and featured storyteller, said, “Being part of this high-tech experience gives me great pride. There are fewer survivors every year who can share their memories of the Holocaust and knowing that the lessons they have to share will last beyond any of us gives me hope for the future and makes me feel that those lessons will not be lost.”

This immersive project depicts the November Pogroms featuring Dr. Knobloch in dual roles: as the narrator of her own devastating story and as the subject of an interactive interview in which users are able to relive Charlotte’s harrowing story while also asking questions that she will respond to in real-time. Charlotte Knobloch’s memories detail the moments before, during and after this pivotal event in history when words of hate became acts of violence, and more than 30,000 Jews were rounded up and sent to concentration camps marking the onset of the Holocaust.

Greg Schneider, Executive Vice President of the Claims Conference, said, “Preserving Shoah history through emerging technology allows us to provide an experience that educates future generations about the Holocaust and gives users a clear understanding of the impact of unchecked hatred. Using Charlotte’s experience as a background makes the history more relatable and humanizes the devastating toll these key historical moments took on the Jewish population.”

This virtual reality project integrates real-life footage, photographs, music, and other audio of Kristallnacht, as well as meticulously researched historical context, into the hand-drawn world of Dr. Knobloch’s story with stunning artwork created by immersive technology company, makemepulse. When users have questions about the experience they are having, they can engage in an interactive Q&A with Dr. Knobloch that uses natural language processing technology in which her prerecorded answers are matched with the questions. These answers cover diverse topics about Charlotte Knobloch’s experience during Kristallnacht, her family and the Holocaust in general. The mixed-reality project will be displayed in museums and film festivals, and accompanying educational materials are currently under development.

Dr. Robert J. Williams, Finci-Viterbi Executive Director of USC Shoah Foundation, UNESCO Chair on Genocide Education, Advisor to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, said, “The USC Shoah Foundation is proud to partner with the Claims Conference on this immersive experience. This technology transports viewers into one of the most pivotal moments in modern history, the nights of violence and terror during the Holocaust. Initiatives like this can spark interest while fostering a deep connection with the history and relevance of the Holocaust. By embracing technology in ways that are responsible and engaging, we have the potential to enhance our collective memory and ensure that we honor the survivors, the victims and the immeasurable loss suffered during some of the twentieth century’s most tragic years of antisemitic violence.”

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, stated, “Charlotte Knobloch’s story reminds us of the imperative to preserve the memory of the Holocaust, at a time when only but a few survivors can testify to their experience. We must also explore the possibilities offered by new technologies to help amplify the voices of survivors, preserve their testimonies and thereby combat Holocaust denial and distortion. It is also by confronting the past that we can prevent antisemitism and future violence. UNESCO is proud to support this innovative initiative as part of its international education program on the Holocaust and genocide.”

Nicolas Rajabaly, Co-Founder, Chief Creative Officer, makemepulse, said, “Inside Kristallnacht, is a groundbreaking project that harnesses the power of XR to bring history to life. This isn’t just about recounting the past—it’s about forging deep, emotional connections with stories of survival and resilience. In a time when empathy and understanding are more critical than ever, this project stands as a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s endurance. Our team is deeply committed to exploring how cutting-edge technology can be a vehicle for storytelling to create experiences that not only preserve history but inspire future generations to learn from it.”

Jordana Cutler, Public Policy Director, Israel & the Jewish Diaspora at Meta, said, “Meta is proud to partner with the Claims Conference on this incredible and unique experience with Charlotte Knobloch. Studies have found that VR can positively improve learning outcomes and this project is a crucial step in transforming Holocaust education. As Metaverse technologies have the potential to change traditional educational models, Claims Conference has again bravely stepped into new territory by bringing Charlotte’s voice and the voices of other survivors, into a platform that will engage and educate future generations.”

Inside Kristallnacht was commissioned by and with assistance from the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany and supported by the German Federal Ministry of Finance and the Foundation Remembrance, Responsibility and Future.

For more information, please visit: www.claimscon.org

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/with-antisemitism-at-an-all-time-high-just-ahead-of-kristallnacht-immersive-xr-experience-launches-giving-viewers-unprecedented-look-inside-a-pivotal-moment-in-the-holocaust-302290664.html

SOURCE Claims Conference

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Technology

ST Engineering iDirect and MBSat Partner to Build Next-Generation Sovereign Connectivity Services Across Oman and the Middle East

Published

3 hours ago

on

October 25, 2026

By

Intuition ground system selected to support MBSat’s planned 2027 service launch, enabling accelerated deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable service growth

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ST Engineering iDirect today announced a strategic partnership with Mohammed Al Barwani Satellite Company (MBSat), part of Mohammed Al Barwani Group, to provide the ground system technology foundation for MBSat’s next-generation satellite gateway and network operations across Oman and the wider Middle East region. Intuition will provide a flexible, software-defined foundation to support sovereign connectivity services, enabling efficient service deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable network operations.

Intuition will deliver a turnkey ground segment solution that accelerates deployment, simplifies operations and gives MBSat the flexibility to scale services as demand grows. The software-defined platform enables dynamic resource management, service automation and seamless integration with existing and future operational systems. The solution also includes Ka-band gateway infrastructure, service provisioning and management capabilities, open API integration frameworks, training and full-lifecycle support. Together, these capabilities will help MBSat launch and operate services efficiently while adapting to evolving market requirements.

The network will leverage capacity from MB Sat-1, a sovereign MicroGEO satellite, with planned service launch in 2027, to support flexible, scalable connectivity services across the region.

The partnership reflects growing investment in sovereign communications infrastructure across the Middle East as operators seek greater control over service delivery, network expansion and long-term technology evolution.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in our efforts to build an advanced satellite communications platform in Oman and the region,” said Ammar Al Rawahi, General Manager, MBSat. “Through our collaboration with ST Engineering iDirect, we are establishing the technical infrastructure required to launch services efficiently, respond to evolving customer needs and expand into new markets, supporting the sustainable long-term growth of our business.”

“We are providing MBSat with a flexible, software-defined ground platform that integrates with its existing operational environment,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Executive Officer, ST Engineering iDirect. “This enables more efficient service deployment and operations today, with the flexibility to scale, introduce new capabilities and evolve as requirements change.”

About ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications, providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their networks. Through its portfolio of ground infrastructure, intelligent networking and advanced satellite communications solutions, the company supports operators, service providers, governments and enterprises worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/st-engineering-idirect-and-mbsat-partner-to-build-next-generation-sovereign-connectivity-services-across-oman-and-the-middle-east-302918467.html

SOURCE ST Engineering iDirect

Continue Reading

Technology

ST Engineering iDirect and MBSat Partner to Build Next-Generation Sovereign Connectivity Services Across Oman and the Middle East

Published

3 hours ago

on

October 25, 2026

By

Intuition ground system selected to support MBSat’s planned 2027 service launch, enabling accelerated deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable service growth

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ST Engineering iDirect today announced a strategic partnership with Mohammed Al Barwani Satellite Company (MBSat), part of Mohammed Al Barwani Group, to provide the ground system technology foundation for MBSat’s next-generation satellite gateway and network operations across Oman and the wider Middle East region. Intuition will provide a flexible, software-defined foundation to support sovereign connectivity services, enabling efficient service deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable network operations.

Intuition will deliver a turnkey ground segment solution that accelerates deployment, simplifies operations and gives MBSat the flexibility to scale services as demand grows. The software-defined platform enables dynamic resource management, service automation and seamless integration with existing and future operational systems. The solution also includes Ka-band gateway infrastructure, service provisioning and management capabilities, open API integration frameworks, training and full-lifecycle support. Together, these capabilities will help MBSat launch and operate services efficiently while adapting to evolving market requirements.

The network will leverage capacity from MB Sat-1, a sovereign MicroGEO satellite, with planned service launch in 2027, to support flexible, scalable connectivity services across the region.

The partnership reflects growing investment in sovereign communications infrastructure across the Middle East as operators seek greater control over service delivery, network expansion and long-term technology evolution.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in our efforts to build an advanced satellite communications platform in Oman and the region,” said Ammar Al Rawahi, General Manager, MBSat. “Through our collaboration with ST Engineering iDirect, we are establishing the technical infrastructure required to launch services efficiently, respond to evolving customer needs and expand into new markets, supporting the sustainable long-term growth of our business.”

“We are providing MBSat with a flexible, software-defined ground platform that integrates with its existing operational environment,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Executive Officer, ST Engineering iDirect. “This enables more efficient service deployment and operations today, with the flexibility to scale, introduce new capabilities and evolve as requirements change.”

About ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications, providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their networks. Through its portfolio of ground infrastructure, intelligent networking and advanced satellite communications solutions, the company supports operators, service providers, governments and enterprises worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/st-engineering-idirect-and-mbsat-partner-to-build-next-generation-sovereign-connectivity-services-across-oman-and-the-middle-east-302918467.html

SOURCE ST Engineering iDirect

Continue Reading

Technology

Global Security & Technology Summit Unveils Month-Long Program of Activities Ahead of December Event

Published

10 hours ago

on

October 24, 2026

By

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Organizing Committee of the Global Security & Technology Summit (GSTS) held an introductory session today at the Ministry of Interior’s headquarters in Riyadh, bringing together representatives from the government, private, and nonprofit sectors to introduce the program of activities leading up to the summit. The upcoming summit will be held in Riyadh under the patronage of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, under the supervision of HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Interior, and organized by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy.

During the session, the Organizing Committee presented the comprehensive GSTS program, comprising three key components: GSTS Month, running from November 1 to 30, 2026; the Global Security & Innovation Fair (SAIF), taking place from November 24 to 26, 2026; and the main Summit, scheduled for December 18 to 20, 2026, in Riyadh. Together, these events form an integrated program designed to advance security and technology innovation, strengthen national capabilities, and foster international cooperation.

GSTS Month will feature working groups, boot camps, training programs, knowledge-sharing sessions, and technical workshops across Saudi Arabia’s 13 administrative regions, delivered both in person and remotely in collaboration with specialized entities. The month-long program aims to develop national capabilities, identify emerging talent, enrich knowledge-sharing opportunities, and equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to develop innovative solutions to future security and technology challenges.

The main Summit will bring together global leaders, decision-makers, experts, and innovators to explore the future of security and technology, promote the integration of advanced technologies within the security sector, strengthen national capabilities, support innovation, and foster international cooperation, further positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for security and technology.

Showcasing the latest technological breakthroughs and security solutions, the summit will bring together government entities, private sector organizations, academic institutions, and research centers to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration across key fields, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), smart security solutions, emerging technologies, and crisis management. The program will also feature main sessions, specialized discussions, and interactive exhibitions. Registration is available at gsts.sa.

Advisor to HRH the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the GSTS Organizing Committee, Ahmed Altowayan, stated that the summit builds on Saudi Arabia’s efforts to establish an advanced security and technology ecosystem focused on knowledge and innovation, keeping pace with rapid developments and future challenges.

Mr. Altowayan noted that the summit is a global platform for strengthening cooperation and exchanging expertise, anticipating future developments in security and technology, and developing strategic partnerships and innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency and readiness of security systems.

Vice Chairman of the GSTS Organizing Committee, Eng. Abdulaziz Alhammadi, said that the summit will offer a range of integrated programs and activities focused on enhancing national skills, encouraging innovation, and supporting international cooperation.

He added that GSTS Month will help build national capabilities, discover talent, and develop skills, with SAIF providing a platform for innovators and researchers from around the world to showcase leading technological solutions, while the main Summit will bring together leaders and experts to discuss the future of security and technology and explore new strategic partnership opportunities.

SAIF will take place at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, bringing together innovators, researchers, technology talents, and industry experts from around the world to showcase promising innovations and projects across 14 fields of technology and innovation. The fair will provide opportunities to engage with project owners, including students, graduates, and entrepreneurs, and explore the different stages of innovation development through interactive zones, panel discussions on emerging security and innovation trends, and knowledge-sharing workshops led by specialists. Visitor registration is open to participants from within and outside the Kingdom through saifair.sa.

The introductory session also featured contributions from representatives of government, private, and nonprofit sector entities, alongside members of the media. Discussions focused on developing national capabilities in security and technology, strengthening students’ technical expertise, translating scientific research into practical solutions, and supporting Saudi companies in developing security and technology solutions and advancing digital transformation.

Organized by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy, GSTS is produced by Tahaluf, with the Ministry of Education serving as Strategic Scientific Partner, Tahakom as Founding Partner, and Elm as Principal Partner.

Registration for participants from within and outside the Kingdom is available at gsts.sa.

Click here to view the media kit. 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/global-security–technology-summit-unveils-month-long-program-of-activities-ahead-of-december-event-302918695.html

Continue Reading

Trending