HR departments were once the middlemen in companies – they found the talent, trained them up, and gave them a way to communicate complaints. But their role is no longer about managing processes, it’s about building connections between people and empowering them to do their best work.

Companies may strive to be at the forefront of office space innovation by introducing ping-pong tables or nap pods, but employees appreciate something a lot more functional. How can AI, VR, and wearables be harnessed in the service of a happier, more productive workforce?

There are hundreds of millions of sports fans worldwide, but whether due to geographical distance or limited ticket availability, many won’t get to see their favourite team in a stadium setting. With Intel True View, however, people can immerse themselves in the action through VR live-streams.

Macy's new in-store virtual reality system lets customers design and walk through a 3D living room – and then buy the furniture. The company plans to roll-out the programme in 90 stores by early 2019 and is also launching an augmented reality app to allow customers to explore furniture at home.