The metaverse is a virtual world that is still in its early stages of development. However, there is a lot of research and development happening in this area, as companies and individuals work to create a more immersive and interactive experience for users.
One key area of R&D is improving the hardware used to access the metaverse. VR headsets and AR glasses are the most immersive way to experience the metaverse, but they can be bulky and expensive. Companies are working to develop lighter, more affordable headsets with better optics.
Another area of R&D is software. Game engines and platforms are being developed to make it easier for creators to build and share content in the metaverse. These platforms are also being used to develop new ways for users to interact with each other and with the environment.
In addition to hardware and software, researchers are also working on ways to enhance the metaverse experience through other senses, such as smell and touch. For example, companies are developing haptic devices that allow users to feel physical sensations in the metaverse.
Research and development in the metaverse is also focused on addressing important issues such as medical treatments, mental health, and pain management. VR is being used to reduce pain, anxiety, and stress in a variety of settings. It is also being used to train surgeons and other medical professionals.
Another important area of R&D is accessibility. The metaverse must be accessible to people with disabilities, and companies are working to develop ways to make this happen. For example, avatars can be created that accurately represent both seen and unseen disabilities.
Investment in metaverse R&D is growing rapidly. In June of 2022, Translucia Global Innovation in Thailand announced a partnership with the Australian software development firm Two Bulls to build a metaverse research and development center in Melbourne. In the fall of 2021, Unity Software spent more than $1 billion to acquire Digital VFX company Weta Digital. In early 2022, Qualcomm Technologies. Inc. opened six extended reality labs across Europe. And in the summer of 2022, the government of Shanghai announced a 10 billion yuan fund — that's almost $1.5 billion — dedicated to metaverse development.
