2023: A Breakthrough Year for the Metaverse

he metaverse is set for a major evolution in 2023. Advances in technology and growing consumer interest are driving this change. A McKinsey survey found that 59% of consumers are excited about incorporating the metaverse into their daily lives. To understand why, let’s look at three key trends shaping the metaverse’s mainstream adoption in 2023.

First, consumers are demanding more utility from AR beyond entertainment. 79% of consumers want AR to interact with products before purchase. This shift in expectations is driving retailers to explore new ways to use AR to enhance the shopping experience. Amazon’s AR try-out partnership with Snap is one example. It led to a rapid increase in product testing.

Second, AI is making the XR experience more intelligent. Live data and computational support from cloud-based AI are making the experience more engaging. This is particularly evident in sports. The PGA Tour has implemented 3D shot tracking, and other leagues are following suit. AI-powered virtual assistants like Verizon’s V3A are also personalizing the shopping experience for consumers.

Third, retailers are transforming their strategies to offer more innovation and personalization to target consumers. American Eagle, for instance, has launched a members-only club-like experience on Roblox that allows for clothing trial runs and other gamified experiences.

Social media is playing a vital role in driving AR user growth. Millennials and Gen-Xers prefer to search and shop on social apps. As a result, social platforms are expanding into direct-to-purchase shopping capabilities. Instagram, for instance, has found success with AR-powered makeup try-ons. TikTok recently launched the TikTok Shop, where users can shop directly through the app.

Lastly, Niantic’s Lightship VPS program allows developers to place AR content on outdoor locations based on GPS coordinates. This technology allows for a more immersive and interactive experience for users in the physical world. It is likely to be adopted by other developers to create more engaging and interactive experiences in the metaverse.

In conclusion, 2023 is the metaverse’s breakthrough year. Advances in technology, shifting audience expectations, and innovative strategies are driving mainstream adoption. The metaverse is set to take a giant leap forward, and the possibilities are endless.