Unity Tech partners with Byju’s for gaming hackathon; OYO launches Japan operations

Unity launches first gaming hackathon in India. OYO starts Japan operations with 100 hotels.

Unity, Byju’s partner for first gaming hackathon

Unity Technology, a gaming as well as augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR) firm, has partnered education technology startup Byju’s for its first gaming hackathon in India.

The hackathon started on October 16 and will run for two weeks. The challenge will see over 1,300 amateur and professional game developers, artists and designers from across India come up with creative solutions to disrupt the way kids learn using innovative games and interactive formats, the companies said in a joint statement. 

The hackathon aims to develop games/simulations/interactive formats for children under 8 years.

The gaming events include hackathon, game design challenge, a 2D game art challenge and 2D animation challenge, the statement added.

“These four unique challenges will offer a great perspective to developers and designers about how much the learning ecosystem has evolved and how their skills can generate unbelievable impact in this industry. At Byju’s, we are committed to disrupting learning with highly innovative gameplay and delight our students with unmatched learning experiences,” said Ranjit Radhakrishnan, chief product officer, Byju’s.

OYO launches OYO Hotels Japan  

Gurugram-based OYO Hotels & Homes has launched OYO Hotels Japan.

“The service launch with 100+ hotels in Japan is a step forward in that direction. We will continue to be invested in driving efficient growth in Japan and across the globe,” said Ritesh Agarwal, founder and chief executive officer (Group), OYO Hotels & Homes.

OYO had commenced its operations through a joint venture with the Japanese conglomerate SoftBank Group in April this year, an official statement said.

The unicorn has also appointed Prasun Choudhary as the operating partner for OYO Hotels Japan.

“We are very excited to launch hotel operations and extend our offering of good quality, beautifully designed, comfortable and value-chic accommodations to domestic and international travellers in Japan. The 100+ hotel milestone, in a span of 6 months, is a big moment for us and further fuels our passion to continue to drive growth across the country while delivering quality customer service and empowering asset owners to run a sustainable business,” said Choudhary.