Today we know the impact of networked, digital media in cultural production has been vast bringing both opportunities and challenges/threats to creators. We have accessible and cheaper tools of production, but also new incumbents acting as gatekeeping monopolies; we have direct engagement with our audiences, but also major issues regarding privacy and big data; and we have faster and faster broadband but unevenly distributed around the world. This next evolution of technology, called the “final platform” by Oculus Rift’s chief scientist, brings full-blown immersion into this networked digital world we live in. But this next evolution of technology – VR - will also more than likely amplify the pressures that define the Internet as we know it today. How then, do we ensure that we design this “final platform” in a way that addresses these pressures and indeed creates a more inclusive, mindful and intentional media space? This talk addresses not only why VR matters but what should matter to VR. Augmented World Expo (AWE) is back for its seventh year in our largest conference and expo featuring technologies giving us superpowers: augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and wearable tech. Join over 4,000 attendees from all over the world including a mix of CEOs, CTOs, designers, developers, creative agencies, futurists, analysts, investors, and top press in a fantastic opportunity to learn, inspire, partner, and experience first hand the most exciting industry of our times. http://www.Augmentedworldexpo.com