Today, IBM and Vivendi Universal’s High Moon Studios are hosting a first of its kind “jam session” around the IBM-Sony-Toshiba developed Cell processor — allowing for video game developers to explore developing games directly from the Cell processor.

Over the course of two days, IBM engineers and top Vivendi game developers will come together to explore the Cell processor, and conduct “jam sessions” to develop game code which could eventually lead to the first video game developed off the Cell technology itself.

The opportunities and applications for Cell technology continue to grow. Once developed just for the Sony Playstation 3 system, IBM has been looking at opportunities outside of the gaming system itself - to where Cell could be applicable. Mercury Computing is using Cell technology for solutions they have developed in the medical and aerospace industries; IBM itself developed a BladeCenter based on Cell technology, and IBM just recently announced a worldwide contest for University students to develop ideas and applications for future Cell technology use.

TotalBiscuit, aka John Bain, a confessed Warcraft geek, speaks out on the supposed phenomenon of MMO addiction at The University of Advancing Technology TechForum 2006. The original video link is here.

Warning : contains some harsh language but is generally worksafe.

Continuing our conversations about the future of the games industry, David Laux and George Dolbier were recently featured in the AboutTV podcast series. This ongoing podcast series looks at the intersection of technology, business and society around media. Dave and George had a lot of interesting insights to share about the future of games and the games business, its increased (and increasingly positive) impact on society, and some prognostications on trends over the next few years. Definitely worth a listen.

Here’s a direct link to the podcast.