The Metaverse is a concept that has captured the attention of the technology industry and numerous people around the world. With the potential to offer a fully immersive digital experience, the Metaverse is becoming a hot topic in the technology community and is driving the development of innovative technologies in multiple areas. However, for the Metaverse to become a tangible reality, three essential pillars are required: computational infrastructure, communications infrastructure, and interface devices.
These pillars are the foundations on which the Metaverse will be built, allowing its operation, connectivity and user experience.
1.- COMPUTER INFRASTRUCTURE
Augmented Reality (AR): Companies like Apple and Google have launched development platforms and devices specific to AR, such as ARKit (Apple) and ARCore (Google). Popular AR applications such as social media filters, navigation apps, and visualization tools have been developed for various industries.
Virtual Reality (VR): New VR devices have been released with improvements in screen resolution, motion tracking, and immersive quality, such as the Oculus Quest 2. Additionally, numerous VR games and applications have been developed, and experienced with the use of VR in fields such as education, medicine and training simulation.
Mixed Reality (MR) and Extended Reality (ER): Companies like Microsoft with its HoloLens device have advanced in the development of MR technologies, which combine virtual elements with the real world. Advances have also been made in RE applications, such as virtual museums and interactive exhibitions.
3D Modeling: More accessible and powerful 3D modeling tools and software have been created, such as Blender and Autodesk Maya. In addition, there has been progress in 3D capture and scanning with devices such as depth cameras and laser scanners.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI has been used in speech recognition, natural language processing, and procedural content generation in the context of the Metaverse. Big tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon have developed AI platforms accessible to developers. In addition, artificial neural networks are being developed, another trend is Deep Learning, which is a highly complex algorithm that can carry out more complicated tasks that would otherwise be impossible.
Cloud Computing and Edge Computing: Cloud Computing has allowed scalable data storage and processing in the Metaverse, while Edge Computing has allowed calculations and processing to be carried out in a distributed way and close to users, reducing latency.
2.- COMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE
5G: 5G deployment is underway in several regions around the world. 5G technology offers faster connection speeds and greater bandwidth, which would facilitate real-time data transmission and communication in the Metaverse. With the evolution of new suppliers, consumption models and technology partners, private 5G deployments will accelerate in many verticals, such as industry, higher education, department stores and mass retail. In fact, IDC’s “Worldwide Private LTE/5G Infrastructure Forecast, 2022-2026” study projects the global private LTE/5G market to surpass $8.3 billion in revenue by 2026.
6G: The 6G standard is still in the research and development stages. 6G is expected to provide even faster speeds, lower latency, and the ability to support a higher density of connected devices, which could further drive the development of the Metaverse in the future. For the user it will mean greater bandwidth, more devices can be connected and in the future it will even be plausible to forget about having fiber at home because 6G will offer more than enough connectivity. But for it to really fulfill its function, 6G must be accompanied by a change in the rate offered by operators, which should be unlimited, as is already beginning to be offered in some cases.
3.- INTERFACE DEVICES
Displays: High-resolution, low-latency displays are essential for an immersive experience in the Metaverse. LG presented its LG Signature OLED M line (model M3) with a giant 97-inch screen. It is the first of its kind with Zero Connect technology, a wireless solution capable of transmitting real-time video and audio up to 4K with a 120Hz refresh rate.
VR Devices: VR devices such as Oculus Rift, HTC Vive and PlayStation VR have been released. These devices have improved visual quality and immersion in virtual reality experiences. Additionally, more precise motion tracking systems and more advanced controllers have been developed to improve user interaction with the virtual environment.
AR devices: Companies such as Microsoft with HoloLens and Magic Leap have developed augmented reality devices that allow virtual elements to be superimposed on the real world. These devices typically include cameras and sensors to map and track the physical environment, making it easier to interact with virtual objects.
Haptic Devices: Haptic technology is used to provide tactile and sensory feedback to users in the Metaverse. As of September 2021, gloves, suits and other haptic devices have been developed that allow sensations such as touch, pressure and vibrations to be experienced.
Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI): Brain-computer interfaces are used to enable direct communication and control between the human brain and computer systems. Although still in development, advances have been made in reading and interpreting brain signals for application in the Metaverse, which could allow direct interaction with virtual environments through the mind.
As we move into the future, the Metaverse is positioned as one of the main technological frontiers that will define our relationship with digital reality. The three essential pillars for its development, computing infrastructure, communications infrastructure and interface devices, are evolving rapidly to meet user demands and expectations.
The intersection of augmented reality, virtual reality, artificial intelligence and blockchain technology, among other technological advances, are paving the way for the creation of an immersive, interactive and accessible Metaverse.
As we continue to explore and develop these areas, we must consider ethical challenges, privacy, and security to ensure that the Metaverse becomes an inclusive and enriching space for all.
The Metaverse is under construction, but its potential and its impact on our society and our daily lives are undeniable.
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