Guest Matthew Ball, a leading thinker on the future of media & the Internet, discusses topics like AI in the Metaverse, human brain engineering, screens in education, hardware conflicts, & the evolution of media & the Metaverse competition.
The concept of the Metaverse has roots in the past but is continually reimagined by tech giants today, reflecting digital worlds.
AI advancements are essential for enhancing hardware capabilities and improving user interactions in building the Metaverse.
The evolution of media competition progresses through access-based, content-based, and platform-based stages, shaping the industry landscape.
Deep dives
Defining the Metaverse and its Historical Context
The term 'Metaverse' has historical roots tracing back to the late 80s and early 90s, reflecting the anticipation of future technologies. While the term has been used extensively in recent times by various tech giants, its essence remains in describing a simulated environment or digital world. The Metaverse concept has gradually evolved and been repurposed by different companies, reflecting their perspectives and cultural nuances.
Impact of Advancements in AI on Building the Metaverse
Advancements in AI play a pivotal role in addressing the technical challenges faced in building the Metaverse. AI is crucial in enhancing hardware capabilities, such as improving visual displays to prevent nausea and ensuring a seamless user experience. AI not only enhances hardware functionality but also contributes to optimizing interactions with virtual environments, enabling a more immersive and effective user engagement.
Utilizing Technology for Diverse Applications and Benefits
The integration of technology, including AI and virtual reality, extends beyond entertainment to revolutionize diverse sectors such as education and industrial training. Virtual environments and digital twins offer novel solutions in enhancing learning experiences and improving workplace safety. While acknowledging potential ethical concerns and challenges, leveraging technology for interactive, educational, and industrial advancements presents opportunities for positive societal impact and innovation.
Ethical Implications of Digital Re-embodiment
Advancements in AI technology raise ethical concerns about the potential re-embodiment of deceased loved ones or creating realistic avatars based on individuals' data. The ability to recreate individuals in digital form using vast amounts of personal data presents challenges regarding privacy, emotional impact, and the blurred lines between reality and simulation.
Evolution of Media Competition
The evolution of media competition is outlined in three stages: access-based competition, content-based competition, and platform-based competition. Initially, new technologies like streaming services revolutionize access to media, leading to intense content creation competition. However, as content becomes abundant, the focus shifts to platforms' economic advantages and subscriber engagement. The dynamic interplay between technology, content creation, and consumer preferences shapes the competitive landscape in the media industry.
Matthew Ball is the CEO of Epyllion, which makes angel investments, provides advisory services, and produces television, films, and video games.
He’s also a Venture Partner at Makers Fund, Senior Advisor to KKR, Senior Advisor to McKinsey & Company, and sits on the board of numerous start-ups.
Matthew is one of the sharpest and most original thinkers on the future of media and the Internet (i.e. The Metaverse). The fully revised and updated edition of his bestselling book "The Metaverse: Building the Spatial Internet" releases next week.