Kim Linden

Our thoughts today are with all of those who are suffering in the devastation caused by the earthquakes in Japan and the tsunami in the Pacific. We encourage all Second Life Residents to support the relief efforts however they can, and we would like to help. We have created two special Linden Bears--one that is wearable and one that sits--which are now for sale in the Marketplace at several pricing levels: L$300, L$1,000 and L$3,000. Here’s the direct link to purchase them. We will donate all proceeds from sales of this bear to the Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami Relief efforts of the American Red Cross. Please help us to support the relief efforts - buy the bears, and help spread the word in Second Life. Additionally, we know that independent groups in Second Life are also planning to support relief efforts. For example, Radar Magazine in Second Life will be holding a month-long event and are seeking designers to donate virtual items (see this article for details). If your group is planning an inworld relief effort, then please share it in the comments here. Thank you, Kim UPDATE -- April 14, 2011: Thank you to everyone who contributed to this campaign! In total, this doation drive raised more than L$8.3 million. The special-edition Linden bears are no longer for sale, but you can of course contribute directly to the charity of your choice and participate in the numerous efforts to support Japan in Second Life organized by fellow Residents. (If your group is planning an inworld relief effort, then please do share it with us in the comments here.)

As we explore ways to make the Second Life experience faster, easier, and more fun, we are testing a number of approaches to bring new users closer to the richness of our virtual world. Yesterday, we quietly launched a beta test of a new technology that opens up Second Life to new users like never before: Second Life on the Web! The SL Web Viewer allows new users to become Second Life “guests” through the Web and enjoy basic SL functionality while exploring exciting destinations in Second Life -- all without downloading a Viewer. We need your help to test the SL Web Viewer! Just click http://interest.secondlife.com/beta to check it out. There is a 45-second video that will run while the system loads and then you’ll either be offered an “Explore Now” button -- which means that you have successfully qualified -- or a “Join Now” button -- which means that you do not qualify for the test at this time*. If you qualify, you’ll be asked to share your email address to create a temporary guest account to use the SL Web Viewer. We’ll be running tests like this from time to time, and we may ultimately choose to further pursue some or none of these approaches, depending on what we learn from our testing, but we’re very excited to make SL an easier experience for guests and look forward to hearing what you think. *Note: We’re in the early stages of testing this technology, and not everyone who navigates to the link will be able to access the SL Web Viewer.

I am paying attention, and your comments are all very helpful. I hear you loud and clear on customer service, among other things. And please know I am not out to make this a "game". I, and my fellow colleagues, definitely have our work cut out for us. Thanks for all the great insights.

Wow, I'm humbled by all the comments, and I'm learning a ton as well! There is definitely such a creative energy to this community that is so unique, and I know we have to protect and nuture that. I will be spending a lot of time in world, much of it under my alt account so that I can truly immerse myself and understand all the nuances of the SL experience. There is so much opportunity here. I look forward to joining forces with the rest of the Lindens to focus on improving the overall experience and set SL up for the future. Keep the comments coming. I look forward to interacting with you all in-world.

All, Thank you for the warm welcomes and the great insights & advice. Obviously, the SL community is the heart of what we do here, and I definitely plan on spending a lot of time in-world (much of it under my alt account so that I can truly participate and observe) to learn the nuts & bolts. I'm really excited to be part of something that is so much more than just a game. Keep the comments coming! Kim