Be Broadband (O2) has partnered with Near™ to beta test Near's new software platform, Near™ London, with Be’s subscriber base. Near uses the very latest computer graphics technology to recreate London in astonishing detail. It provides businesses with a platform for their own 3D channels: a living, breathing model of the city which they can make their own.

It is intended that selected Be subscribers will get exclusive first access to the Near™ London application, working with the Near™ team to provide feedback on the features to be included in the final product.

Near will also develop and distribute a branded content channel within Near London that promotes Be’s broadband services and allows beta testers to play a multi-player mini-game based on Be’s successful “Broadband Heaven” campaign:


Near™ will be launching the finished software to the public in Q3 2009 in coordination with the 300th Anniversary of London’s historic West End. It's an interesting idea, although the online world of Second Life probably does it better.