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IMAX is raising $50 million to create high-quality VR
If IMAX is going to get serious about virtual reality, it's going to need some cash... thankfully, it's not having trouble on that front. The media mainstay has wrapped up the first phase of an effort to raise $50 million for creating "at least" 25 premium VR experiences across numerous platforms, including dedicated IMAX VR locations. On top of its own contribution, some of the bigger investors include Acer (not surprising given its link to IMAX partner Starbreeze), the talent seekers at Creative Artists Agency and a trio of Chinese media companies (China Media Capital, Enlight Media and Studio City).
Apple brand valued at $153 billion, scoots ahead of Google for first place
What is the world's most valuable consumer-facing brand? If you'd asked the guys behind the BrandZ survey at any point over the last four years, they'd have told you "Google," but in 2011 their answer has changed. Apple is now the hottest property in terms of consumer goodwill, earning an estimated valuation of $153.3 billion and leading a pack that includes the likes of Coca-Cola, BMW, HSBC, and Disney. The tech sector had a very strong year as a whole, with Facebook's brand improving in value by a staggering 246 percent (to $19.1b) and Amazon becoming the world's most valuable retailer (at $37.6b) in spite of having no actual stores. Sadly, there were some downers too, as Nintendo lost 37 percent of its brand worth over the past year, Nokia dropped by 28 percent, and the BlackBerry marque was considered 20 percent less awesome than before. Punch the source link to learn more. [Thanks, Bruce]
