As AI technology continues to evolve and be adopted within virtual environments, it is expected to play an important role in supporting immersive experiences and the overall functioning of the metaverse(s). For example, it will render virtual worlds, drive digital 3D versions of chatbots, and enable real-time translations through natural language processing.
AI as the backbone of the metaverse
AI will play an important role in content creation for virtual worlds, with both humans and AI contributing to the creation of infrastructure, landscapes, and other assets. Advancements in technology are driving AI’s involvement in content creation, including improvements in 3D displays for virtual and augmented reality. Companies are already leveraging AI to develop entire virtual worlds, and 3D AI-driven chatbots are being created to enhance user experiences in the metaverse through personalised interactions. Furthermore, AI will also contribute to content moderation by detecting, flagging, and removing illegal, inappropriate, or harmful content across different media formats. Lastly, robust identity authentication will be essential in these environments, and AI can contribute by analysing biometric data like facial recognition, fingerprints, or voice patterns to accurately verify an individual’s identity.
Challenges at the intersection of AI and the metaverse(s)
The integration of AI and the metaverse presents several challenges. Protecting data privacy and security is a primary concern, especially as the metaverse would involve the collection and processing – including via AI – of personal and sensitive information (going as far as kinetic, physiological, brain activity, and other health data) that could be exploited by malicious actors if not properly safeguarded. Additionally, algorithmic bias and fairness must be addressed to prevent the perpetuation of social inequalities within the metaverse. Fair representation and inclusivity should be prioritised to ensure that AI technologies in the metaverse do not inadvertently marginalise or discriminate against certain individuals or communities.
