At its core, The Sphere is a portable, immersive briefing environment that combines physical space, data-driven storytelling and AI-powered demonstrations.
Inside the 360-degree space, participants are guided through tailored experiences that reflect their organisation’s challenges and objectives. These journeys incorporate a mix of datasets, simulations, virtual content and AI applications, allowing executives to explore use cases and outcomes in real time.
Unlike traditional presentations, the experience is dynamic and persona-led, adapting depending on whether the participant is, for example, a Chief Finance Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer or Chief Operations Officer. Each session is designed to highlight relevant opportunities, from operational efficiency to workforce transformation.
The content is created and continually developed by EY using familiar tools such as Microsoft technologies and design platforms, enabling rapid iteration and refinement. This allows the experience to evolve in line with both technological advancements and client needs.
To support global deployment, the system has been designed to be highly portable while maintaining a consistent, high-quality experience. This enables EY teams to deliver The Sphere across multiple locations and events worldwide.
“The Igloo is a way for me to train or teach leaders in Fortune 500 companies how to take advantage of AI. And that naturally comes in the form of one, education, two, showing them the art of the possible, and then three, building cool stuff with them to show them that it’s real. And I think the thing I love about working with Igloo Vision is that it brings all these three together really nicely.”
Mary Fung
EY.ai Simulation Hub Lead, EY
The Sphere has enabled EY to deliver immersive, AI-focused experiences to senior decision-makers across a wide range of industries and regions.
Deployed at multiple global conferences and executive events, including EY’s own forums and third-party industry gatherings, the experience has reached large audiences, often engaging over 100 participants within a single installation.
By combining immersive storytelling with practical application, The Sphere allows leaders to move beyond theory, helping them understand not just what AI is, but how it can be applied within their own organisations. Participants are able to explore potential use cases, interact with data and simulations, and begin shaping ideas that can drive near-term return on investment.
The approach has also supported EY in developing and demonstrating its AI advisory capabilities, positioning the organisation at the forefront of discussions around enterprise AI adoption.
Importantly, the project has been delivered consistently at a global scale, demonstrating the ability to bring a complex, high-impact experience to clients wherever they are based.
The Sphere continues to evolve as both a client engagement platform and a space for ongoing innovation.
EY is using the environment not only to present ideas, but also to co-create them with clients, exploring new AI use cases, testing concepts and refining approaches in real time. This makes the experience a valuable tool for experimentation as well as communication.
As AI technology continues to develop, the content and capabilities within The Sphere will be updated to reflect new tools, datasets and business applications. Its flexible, modular design allows EY teams to adapt quickly, ensuring the experience remains relevant across industries and use cases.
Looking ahead, The Sphere is expected to play an increasingly important role in how EY supports organisations in navigating AI adoption, providing a practical, immersive way to explore what’s possible and how to implement it effectively.
“It’s not necessarily them saying, hey, this looks cool, but opening up their eyes and seeing their light bulb go on with ideas. And then they start asking better questions and having ideas on how it can actually help them. That’s the success to me.” ”
Mary Fung
EY.ai Simulation Hub Lead, EY
“AI is so abstract. You don’t know what you don’t know. So, with the sphere, you see all these demos that we’re doing, then you start forming ideas like wait, actually, I can do this, or I can use that. So it’s all about knowing what is possible and then visualizing it for yourself.” ”
Mary Fung
EY.ai Simulation Hub Lead, EY
“Having everyone in the space and creating those conversations, it takes education and learning to another level, every part of the screen tells a story and helps them bring together all the pieces that really connect”
Mary Fung
EY.ai Simulation Hub Lead, EY
