The 2016 US presidential election showed just how much online habits can influence the offline world. So rather than limiting their political activism to physical spaces, Second Life users are also protesting on the virtual platform via projects like Avatars Against Trump.

Millions of Muslims visit Mecca each year as part of the Hajj – a pilgrimage to the Islamic holy city that is obligatory for all able-bodied Muslims. But illness and money worries can create insurmountable barriers, so more people are turning to the digital pilgrimage as an accessible alternative.

Virtual reality is set to become a $1 billion (£710 million) industry by the end of 2016, so it’s understandably an appealing platform for marketers. But with a new study suggesting that 34% of Brits don't care about the tech, where should brands invest for the best return?

The Xbox One is going wheelchair-friendly. It's set to become the first major gaming platform to release disabled avatars, complete with wheelchairs that complement the console's signature neon green. This is the latest in a string of examples of how brands can champion equality.