IMVU’s leading avatar-based social network is poised to become even stronger through its recent acquisition of social VR company StayUp, Inc. Thanks to StayUp’s expertise, IMVU’s platform extends its capabilities in user-generated content, shared experiences, and avatar design, as well as advancements in virtual reality and social immersion.
“What started as a vision of delivering the most immersive real-time communication system at StayUp became grander and more achievable the minute we met the IMVU team,” said Gary Chevsky, founder of StayUp. “Millions of users will have an opportunity to be together in a social network on any device to create memorable moments through shared experiences, just like real life.”
The current experience offered by IMVU emotionally and mentally engages users with a deep level of social realism, using customizable avatars to interact with others for a sense of social presence. For the future, IMVU’s vision is going beyond traditional social media loops towards meaningful interactions, developing stronger bonds, and creating more memorable moments.
StayUp’s team joins California-based IMVU, and Chevsky is to serve as an advisor to IMVU CEO Daren Tsui as part of the acquisition. Chevsky’s focus is on next-generation technologies, leveraging his experience from his prior position as President of Tango, a pioneer in mobile video-chat with over 400 million users.
