Leaderboard

At Second Life, we are committed to creating a richer, more immersive, and safer environment for everyone. With that spirit, we’re excited to share several important updates and developments that not only aim to improve our virtual world but also ensure that our community continues to thrive in a safe and engaging manner. Bringing Second Life Everywhere: Mobile and Desktop Updates Our development team is working tirelessly to make Second Life accessible wherever you are, whether you're on a mobile device or sitting at your desktop. While our Mobile App is still in Private Alpha, we’re looking forward to expanding access to more members of our community shortly. Our new App promises to bring all the richness and beauty of Second Life directly to your mobile phones and tablets. Don't miss our latest developer update video for a sneak peek at what’s coming! On the desktop front, we're gearing up for a wider release of some of your most requested features for the Second Life Official Viewer. We're particularly excited about rolling out innovations like Mirrors and 2K textures, which were showcased in a recent "Lab Gab" video. Making Second Life Safer: Strengthening Community Protections Our priority has always been to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all while preserving the freedom of expression that makes our virtual world so special. That’s why we’re working to further enhance the safety and protection of the Second Life platform. These efforts include strengthening some of our community and employee policies as well as evaluating improvements to our age verification process. One area of ongoing scrutiny both internally and externally concerns child-presenting avatars. We recognize and want to acknowledge the vibrant community of residents who enjoy roleplaying as such, and we also feel that it is crucial to reinforce our stance that sexualized ageplay is strictly prohibited. Today, we are updating our Child Avatar Policy to ensure a clear separation and to safeguard all community members. We know that this update has the potential to cause confusion or concern in our community, so we’ve prepared an FAQ which we will continue to update as questions come up. Strengthening Internal Policies and Community Engagement We recently posted our initial response to community concerns about alleged violations of company and community policies by employees, contractors, and community members. Since that time, we have conducted multiple thorough investigations to look closely at whether there were specific infractions or problematic interactions that needed us to take action. The investigation determined that all Lindens and contractors have stayed in compliance with our own community guidelines, as well as unwritten, ethical guidelines. I do not make this statement lightly, and I know there will be plenty of discussion. What I can say is that there is no incentive, monetary or otherwise, for me to mislead the community. At some point, the community has to trust that we, the Lindens, do well when the community thrives. We may make mistakes along the way, and we know that our community will engage with us when we do. Second Life is an enormous virtual world and we have to walk a very fine line between policing and preserving freedoms while also protecting the future growth and health of Second Life as a platform that respects diversity and creative expression among our community. The findings did highlight opportunities for improvement. As a result, we are making updates to our internal policies to raise the standard for how Linden employees should respectfully engage with community members. This addresses multiple forms of engagement including how we present ourselves, how we interact with the community (even in moments of conflict), and how we minimize the perception of conflict of interest and favoritism in our interactions. Additionally, there have been specific actions we have initiated or finalized: Updated our Child Avatar Policy Updated our internal Policies and Procedures Implemented personnel changes Initiated management improvement programs Committed to Community Roundtables (see below) Committed to increased transparency and accountability Looking ahead, we are excited to announce the launch of our Community Roundtable with Second Life Leadership. The first one is scheduled for May 20 at 9:30-11 a.m. PT. This will be an opportunity for community members to connect directly with our top executives, share your input, and discuss ideas on enhancing Second Life. This initiative represents another step in our efforts to improve our community interactions, ensuring that your voice is more directly heard and valued. I will be a part of the first Community Roundtable and welcome you all to attend. Building a Better Second Life Together All of these updates and initiatives are part of our broader drive to continually improve Second Life. Stay tuned for more, participate in upcoming events, and let's make Second Life better together. Oberwolf Linden

Save the date! On June 23rd, Second Life will be turning 21! The 21st annual Second Life birthday celebration (SL21B) will be held from June 21st through July 21st. Get ready for a month of fun-filled days of live music, performances, shopping, and amazing community exhibits! This year’s Birthday theme is Elements. This theme invites us to explore the fundamental components that make up our vast virtual landscape and the diverse communities within it. From the fiery passion of creators and artists to the fluid adaptability of our social environments, from the solid bonds within our communities to the fresh breezes of innovation that propel us forward, "Elements" is a celebration of the core forces that shape our experiences in Second Life. The SL21B Shop & Hop event is the official multi-region shopping event of the 21st annual Second Life birthday celebration. This event brings together many of the top merchants across SL for exclusive items and discounts on some of the best creations in Second Life. This year again we are offering two types of Shop & Hop regions, Moderate rated regions and Adult rated regions. Are you a merchant or creator who wants to participate? If so, then please fill out this form by May 12th. We will be filling in stores as we receive applications so please apply sooner rather than later. Some important details for participating merchants: The set-up for participating merchants will be held June 7-10 and all participating merchants are required to have at least a 20% discount on all items. All merchants must provide a new and exclusive, for the duration of the event, non-group gift. Follow our blog and sign up for our weekly emails for more upcoming information about the SL21B celebrations starting in June! CURRENT APPLICATIONS FOR SL21B: Shop & Hop Application - Applications close on May 12th, 2024 Performer Application - Applications close on May 31st, 2024 (Announcement) Volunteer Application - Applications close on May 12th, 2024 (Announcement) Exhibitors Application - Applications close on May 12th, 2024 (Announcement)

Save the date! On June 23rd, Second Life will be turning 21! The 21st annual Second Life birthday celebration (SL21B) will be held from June 21st through July 21st. Get ready for a month of fun-filled days of live music, performances, shopping, and amazing community exhibits! This year’s Birthday theme is Elements. This theme invites us to explore the fundamental components that make up our vast virtual landscape and the diverse communities within it. From the fiery passion of creators and artists to the fluid adaptability of our social environments, from the solid bonds within our communities to the fresh breezes of innovation that propel us forward, "Elements" is a celebration of the core forces that shape our experiences in Second Life. We are opening applications for the performance schedule. We are looking for all types of performers to join the week-long festivities. Are you a DJ who can spin up a great party set or a live performer who can jam all night? You might be one of the grid’s amazing Dance companies, or perhaps you’re a Particle Performer? One of the things that makes Second Life so vibrant and exciting is the wide range of performers who share their talent with our Residents. Whatever your medium, we would love to hear from you! Fill out the official performer application form by May 31st, 2024. While we encourage all interested performers to sign up, please note that it does not guarantee a spot. We will review all submissions and extend audition invitations via a follow-up note in-world to the SL username that you provide. Over the coming month, keep an eye on our blog for more opportunities to participate in the SL21B celebrations as a merchant! CURRENT APPLICATIONS FOR SL21B: Performer Application - Applications close on May 31st, 2024 Volunteer Application - Applications close on May 12th, 2024 (Announcement) Exhibitors Application - Applications close on May 12th, 2024 (Announcement)

As part of our effort to better connect virtual world newcomers with some of the best and most active inworld communities, we’re excited to debut an all-new expansion to the Hub – the Second Life Community Exhibition (SLCE). SLCE aims to bring more visibility and exposure to a diverse range of Second Life communities during the earliest moments of the new Resident journey via primely-positioned exhibition space in one of our most active and popular starting points for all newly-registered Residents. A wide and diverse range of community participants will be cycled in as we learn more about what resonates best with our newcomers, but early participants include a cross-range of communities including Caledon, Bay City, Furzona, BURN2, and Virtual Ability. In total, there are 11 initial participants in phase one with additional community participants planned as the project continues to evolve and expand. Watch our grand opening event live on a special edition of “Lab Gab” streaming live on our social channels today at 1pm PT. Then join the fun inworld as we open the doors right after the broadcast. P.S. We plan to expand and cycle in more communities soon! If you are interested in being considered, please fill out the application form. Space is limited, but we will review all submissions! Second Life Community Exhibition The Second Life Community Exhibition (SLCE) is designed to showcase a variety of communities to new Residents right from the start, by featuring them prominently at the Welcome Hub, a key initial gathering spot. We will regularly update the exhibition with a diverse mix of community showcases. More Info Teleport Update May 1st, 2024 We are thrilled to announce the exciting expansion of our Second Life Community Exhibition (SLCE). As of 12pm PT on May 1st, 2024, the SLCE will grow with the addition of 10 new exhibits, bringing more diversity and creativity to our community showcase. This second phase not only enriches our current offerings but also introduces five larger parcels, designed to provide more space and opportunities for immersive experiences. Joining our initial group of esteemed exhibitors: Bay City Nonprofit Commons Oasis Virtual Ability BURN2 Boystown Caledon Furzona LWN - Second Norway Drivers of SL Confederation of Democratic Simulators Bellisserian Bureau of Bureaucracy We are proud to welcome these new participants starting at 12pm PT today: Baunatal German Community Islands of New England The Nature Collective FOCUS Art Magazine and Galleries The Teegle Equestrian Community Leeward Cruising Club Premier Wrestling The Lighthouse: Support & Meetings Virtual Worlds Education Consortium American Cancer Society These additions enhance the variety within our exhibition and foster a supportive and engaging environment for all Residents. Explore these communities and connect with the unique cultures and initiatives each new exhibit brings to Second Life! We plan to expand and cycle in more communities continuously, so if you are interested in being considered, please fill out the application form.

🌱🌼🌷 Residents featured in this image: Top Row (from left to right): Isabella G Mr. Wolf Luane Meo Moxie Mae Amberly Renji Salvatore Middle Row (from left to right): Ryanna Foxclaw Nimoe Constantine Vexx Daines Sol Chattoway Shun Bottom Row (from left to right): Bambi Henzel Huntsman ByteDreams Slade Spite Wick Shiloh Lyric Ecaps Deman Thank you for sharing your beautiful images with us! 🌸 For a chance to have your image featured in our social campaigns, submit your work to the Official Second Life Flickr Group.

Watch the video on YouTube

"Joyful Gardens is a whimsical Second Life creation by Hedy Heartsong. A place of botanical gardens, mazes, wildlife, tunnels underwater reefs and much more." Read more on the blog

Destination info on Flickr

"Take on your pajamas or another comfy suit and make yourself a home. 𝟏𝟏𝐚𝐦 𝐒𝐋𝐓 (𝟐𝟎:𝟎𝟎 𝐂𝐄𝐒𝐓) 𝐀𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟐𝐩𝐦 𝐒𝐋𝐓 (𝟐𝟏:𝟎𝟎 𝐂𝐄𝐒𝐓) 𝐁𝐨𝐨 𝐃𝐨𝐳𝐞𝐫 Let us have a relaxing Friday, and let's end the week together! " Read more on the blog

Style info on Flickr

Style info on the blog

"I’ve wondered for a while why Second Life doesn’t have any good safari resorts. Now, Le Chateau, the burgeoning 1980s Miami/French-themed community and estate, has stepped in to fill the gap." Read more on the blog

Pictured: Chee Chee Explore a variety of serene nature escapes, vibrant hangouts, and immersive roleplaying communities - each destination promises a unique adventure. Teleport over and discover your next favorite spot in Second Life today! Chee Chee Welcome everyone to Chee Chee at The Sign III! Here, you can immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of the shrine, enjoy the cozy comfort of the hot springs, savor delicious sushi and ramen, and indulge in a variety of snacks at the night market area. Take a moment to relax at the bar and sample sweets at the souvenir snack shop. You can also take a tram ride to explore Chee Chee! More Info Teleport The month of May also brings about many new events, so keep an eye on the Featured Events category over the next few weeks for fun and interesting art and music events to attend. And, don't forget to check our Recently Added category to see all the latest additions to the Second Life Destination Guide! Got a spot that you’d like listed in the Destination Guide? Make sure to drop us a note at editor@lindenlab.com or submit your spot via web form. Learn more about the Destination Guide criteria for Editors’ Picks or the Destinations Floater in the viewer, and increase your chances of being featured in those coveted spots!

Learn More About the Tilia Acquisition in an All-New Lab Gab! Join us for a special edition of “Lab Gab” with Linden Lab Executive Chairman Oberwolf Linden, who discusses this week’s announcement that cross-border payments firm Thunes has entered into an agreement to acquire Tilia. This deal is good news for Second Life residents and creators, who will soon see more payment processing options without additional costs. As part of the transaction, Thunes and Linden Lab (which is the current majority owner of Tilia), have agreed to an exclusive five-year partnership in which, post closing, Thunes will provide payment processing and pay-outs to Linden Lab, leveraging Thunes’ global network – allowing gamers to pay, and to receive money real-time, in a more cost-efficient way and with increased transparency. Oberwolf tackles many of the top questions emerging from the community about the transaction, including more specific details about what this means for the Second Life community now and in the future. Here are links to some of the topics we’ve covered in this episode: https://www.thunes.com/news/thunes-announces-agreement-to-acquire-tilia-llc https://www.pymnts.com/acquisitions/2024/thunes-tackles-us-gaming-market-with-tilia-acquisition To learn more, be sure to watch Lab Gab on the Second Life YouTube Channel! For full episodes of Lab Gab, click over to the Lab Gab YouTube Playlist. Join Second Life Leadership in Conversation at our Community Roundtable Event We’re also excited to announce the all-new Community Roundtable event with Second Life Leadership, scheduled to be held May 20 at 9:30-11 a.m. SLT. This is an opportunity to connect directly with our top executives, share your input, and discuss ideas on enhancing Second Life. This initiative represents another step in our efforts to improve our community interactions, ensuring that your voice is more directly heard and valued. At the first meeting, we’ll be joined by Linden Lab Executive Chairman Oberwolf Linden and Senior VP of Product & Engineering Grumpity Linden. During future Roundtable meetups, we’ll rotate in other executives to participate on a variety of topics and we’ll also aim to vary the scheduling to be more accessible to other time zones. For the inaugural session, we’ll open with some important updates on recent developments and announcements including the new agreement by global payment provider Thunes to acquire Tilia and other recent policy changes. Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask questions during the open Q&A portion of the event, but please remember that this Community Roundtable is not meant to serve as a forum for individual support issues or personal grievances. While we do welcome candid and honest interactions, the spirit and intent of this gathering is to provide an opportunity for both Leadership and the community to listen and learn from each other. Our usual Community Standards apply and hate speech or personal attacks will not be tolerated. If you would like to submit a question in advance or just provide feedback directly to Leadership prior to the event, then please use this anonymous form. We’ll update this post with the inworld location closer to the Roundtable date…and we look forward to seeing you inworld on May 20! Second Life Leadership Team

The Concierge and Land User Group meeting is a monthly, public meeting for discussion and education on Second Life, useful to both Mainland Residents and Estate owners. Topics include any issues relating to Customer Relations/Support or concerning Land in general (mainland, islands, Linden Homes, estates, auctions, etc.). Join Wendi, Vix, and members of the Land team, on Wednesday at 12pm PT at Linden Estate Services. All are welcome. Keep up to date with all of our user group meetings on our wiki and public calendar.

We’ve got an all-new action-packed episode of “Lab Gab” that you won’t want to miss! Tune in to get a first look at our latest developer video that showcases the newest updates to the Private Alpha release of the Second Life Mobile App. There’s been a ton of progress since our last update – and Senior VP of Product & Engineering Grumpity Linden is here to break down what’s here now and coming next for our Mobile future. You’ll also hear from Director of Engineering Signal Linden and Product Manager Kyle Linden as they discuss and show off new and exciting Second Life innovations and features like PBR terrain and mirrors. Finally, our Manager of Support Operations Keira Linden joins us to share some news about forthcoming policy updates that will help make our virtual world safer and stronger for everyone - and did we mention that there’s also news about our upcoming SL21B celebration? Here are links to some of the topics we’ve covered in this episode: Second Life Mobile App - Developer Update Video (April 2024) Mobile Update: April 2024 - new builds, avatar updates! Premium Plus - Second Life Mobile Private Alpha Sign-Up Feedback Portal Mirrors, PBR Terrain, and 2K textures Materials Featurettes Viewer Accessing Aditi (the beta grid) Second Life’s 21st Birthday (SL21B) Updates Follow our Featured News Blog for upcoming Policy Updates To learn more, be sure to watch Lab Gab on the Second Life YouTube Channel! For full episodes of Lab Gab, click over to the Lab Gab YouTube Playlist. Want to see just the mobile updates? Check out our latest Second Life Mobile Developer video:

Save the date! On June 23rd, Second Life will be turning 21! The 21st annual Second Life birthday celebration (SL21B) will be held from June 21st through July 21st. Get ready for a month of fun-filled days of live music, performances, shopping, and amazing community exhibits! This year’s Birthday theme is Elements. This theme invites us to explore the fundamental components that make up our vast virtual landscape and the diverse communities within it. From the fiery passion of creators and artists to the fluid adaptability of our social environments, from the solid bonds within our communities to the fresh breezes of innovation that propel us forward, "Elements" is a celebration of the core forces that shape our experiences in Second Life. Just like last year, your exhibit does not need to stay in theme. Share your Second Life passions with us. Your interests. Your communities. Your world! Every year we celebrate because of you, the amazing and creative Residents who have chosen to call Second Life home. What has drawn you into this world, and what keeps you here? These annual festivities are an opportunity to show us what fuels your Second Life. Let's celebrate that together! This year we are again offering two types of exhibitor regions, General rated regions and Adult rated regions. If you would like to participate as an exhibitor with a presence at SL21B, then please fill out this exhibitor form no later than May 12th. Over the next month, keep an eye on our blog for more opportunities to participate in the SL21B celebrations as a volunteer, performer, and merchant! CURRENT APPLICATIONS FOR SL21B: Exhibitors Application - Applications close on May 12th, 2024

The Second Life app brings the richness of the Second Life virtual world to your Android or iOS mobile device...and Second Life Premium Plus members are among the first to get access. With the new Second Life Mobile, you can experience a new level of convenience and engagement in your Second Life adventures, whether you’re at home or on the go. In this initial Private Alpha release, you can: * See your avatar & edit appearance by changing outfits * Explore the world via the Destination Guide, mobile showcase, own favorites (teleport, deep links, TP offers) * Interact with the world through a limited set of movements (walk, run, fly, sit, stand) and object interactions (touch, sit) - or park your avatar and explore via flycam. * Socialize and stay connected (nearby chat, group chat, IM, group notices, find contacts, inspect profiles) * Create and log in with a new account …and there’s more to come in future releases! Qualifying Premium Plus members can apply now for the Private Alpha. If you are Premium Plus, you can learn more at: Premium Plus - Second Life Mobile Private Alpha Sign-Up Please note that while all Premium Plus subscribers are eligible to participate in the Private Alpha, we’ll be adding users in small groups over time. There is a server registration limit and we’ll be adding participants on a first come first served basis.Your patience is appreciated! We know you’re excited (and so are we!) but we’ll need time to process applications, add test accounts via TestFlight and Google Play and then, most importantly, process your feedback. And please remember, this is still early Alpha! That means it’s buggy, and it’s missing functionality. It also means we’re looking for your help in making it better. Once we are through the alpha and beta testing phases, Second Life Mobile will be accessible to all users. Not Premium Plus? Upgrade today at https://secondlife.com/premium

We’re pleased to announce an update to Second Life pricing for educational and nonprofit institutions. Effective immediately, any accredited educational institution or any organization with a 501©(3) charitable non-profit tax status (or equivalent) is eligible for a 50% discount on private region set-up costs and a 50% discount on private region maintenance costs. As long-time Second Life users will note, the discount on maintenance costs is similar to a discount previously offered to these organizations. More recently, after reviewing our pricing, we have been offering this discount directly to individual organizations, but today we are happy to formalize this pricing, extend the discount to also include set-up costs, and open applications for all that are eligible. For more details on the offer, including how to apply, please see the wiki page here. Organizations eligible for this discounted pricing are also eligible for invoicing of the private region costs. Invoices must include a minimum of six months of maintenance. Additional details can be found here.