Metaverse Connect: Empowering Connection through a User-Centered Metaverse
PI: Dr Loretta Yi-King CHOI
Abstract:
The concept of a metaverse has been gaining popularity in recent years, and it is no longer just a science fiction idea. With the latest technological advancements, it is now possible to create a virtual world where people can interact and connect with each other. However, the very few existing metaverse platforms are typically designed for specific purposes, like gaming, or require specialized hardware such as VR headsets, making it difficult for users to engage easily. This lack of flexibility inhibits the growth of the metaverse as sustainable user engagement is crucial for its success.This project aims to develop a metaverse with core functionalities that enable engaging user experiences through user-centered design. To showcase the functionalities of the metaverse, a social networking application allowing users at different physical locations to take selfies together will be built. A public launch will also be held to inspire demand for further exciting applications such as business promotion and FinTech services to run on the platform. This project is the first step towards establishing a far-reaching metaverse that advances technologies like blockchain and supports studies on safety, ethical and legal practices in the metaverse.