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Second Life Viewer 2.0 Effects

Posted: Wed Feb 24, 2010 11:12 pm
by Nalates
Linden Lab is releasing their viewer version 2.0... well... the Beta version at least (2.0.0.202174). This has been the topic of speculation and conjecture for some time. One of the biggest reasons for change is the high number of users that try Second Life and do not return, over 90%, I think 98% but I am not taking the time to look it up just now.

Download SL Beta Viewer: Second Life Beta 2.0 Viewer Download

If LL has met their goals, this could well have a significant impact on other grids, like OpenSIM. I'm not sure the popularity of the viewer will over come the cost benefits of OpenSIM. We will have to see.

Changes in the user interface could have a significant impact. I know I am really missing some of the features of the SL viewer in the Cavern. I often feel like I'm wearing straight jacket.

New World Notes has an article up and discusses some of the possible impacts on other virtual worlds.

Whatever the case, I suspect there is much to be learned.

Re: Second Life Viewer 2.0 Effects

Posted: Wed Mar 03, 2010 12:55 am
by Nalates
I've used the 2.0 Beta for a few hours now. I blogged that experience. Second Life Viewer 2.0 Beta Review

There are features in this viewer that will challenge even Blue Mars. The render quality features we are expecting are not yet implemented. Many of the avatar improvements wanted are not there. But, the addition of a tattoo layer and the Alpha layer have huge possibilities for design and content security. These changes alone may drive the adoption of Viewer 2.0.

When reading about SL technology Gwyneth Llewelyn is one of my favorite writers. Her look ahead of how things are going to go down seems reasonable. See: SECOND LIFE 2.0: THE REVOLUTION

The dynamic shadows and other render improvements are in this viewer, off by default. Several of the new features will reduce server and client lag. As those spread through SL we may see some of the new render tech and other features become the default. New avatars are part of the coming enhancements.

So, lots of changes this year.