Coronavirus Statement

With the latest developments in the Coronavirus outbreak, the AWE team is assuring the augmented and virtual reality community that our top concern is the safety and well being of all AWE participants. At this time, AWE USA 2020 will take place as planned at the Santa Clara Convention Center (SCCC) from May 27 through May 29. We will continue to monitor the situation and inform you about any developments related to AWE here. Keep in mind that you can cancel your AWE pass until April 15 and get a refund (minus a 3% service fee). This means you can take advantage of Early Bird pricing with minimal risk. Learn more about our cancellation policy here.
 
AWE is hopeful that a safe and successful event will be executed in May, and will work with the Santa Clara Convention Center and city officials to implement on-site health and sanitation measures as needed. Both AWE and SCCC are familiar with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guidelines for mass gatherings. For more information: Read letter from Santa Clara Convention Center, visit the Santa Clara County Public Health website, and check with the California Department of Public Health.

Update: March 19, 2020

The impact of COVID-19 on our community has been vast. Despite the challenges, AWE remains committed to bringing the entire AR/VR community together. To that end, we are launching an online event to accompany AWE USA 2020.

Wherever you are, you will be able to see and interact with the best in AR and VR. Existing ticket holders will have complimentary access to AWE Online. A day-by-day schedule for AWE Online is coming soon but will consist of the AWE USA 2020 agenda distributed over 4 days (May 26-29). With AWE Online, those unable to travel will be able to watch 200+ live and on-demand streaming talks, visit online exhibits to see the latest demos, join impromptu and prescheduled video-based meetings, network, and more. More details to come!

Update: March 9, 2020

AWE USA 2020 Health & Safety Rules 
  • If you’re not feeling well or there is a possibility you were exposed to the virus, please stay at home
  • Wash your hands often with antibacterial soap and water for a full 20 seconds, especially before and after eating, using the restroom, coughing, sneezing, riding on public transportation, etc.
  • If you cannot wash your hands, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. There will be extra hand sanitizer on site, but we suggest bringing a personal travel-sized one just in case
  • Avoid shaking hands!

On-site Measures -- AWE is working with the venue to implement: 
  • Increased and intensified cleaning and disinfection of all high-volume touch points, equipment and furniture
  • Availability of effective cleaning and sanitizing materials for public use
  • Awareness: Hygiene information will be included in daily attendee emails as well as on signage throughout the venue
  • On-site medical support
  • Staff and volunteer screening and training on CDC prevention instructions
  • Exhibitors will be advised to effectively clean and disinfect all booth surfaces, furniture and demo products
  • Mic change protocol and disinfection solutions between speakers
  • *AWE is also looking into additional hygiene products and measures for the expo hall, as well as live streaming or some virtual attendance option(s) for those unable to travel