In recent years, immersive technologies like Augmented & Virtual Reality, along with the now-popular Metaverse, have been gaining mainstream relevance. While these technologies are not new, they are now accessible at levels never seen before.

The 2021 journal article “Computer Vision in the Metaverse” talks about the role of computer vision (or CV technology) in building the human ability to experience the virtual world in the Metaverse. By and large, computer vision has been predominant in the “real” physical world. The future of computer vision is now linked to the virtual world.

Unlike the “real” physical world, the “virtual” universe requires technology devices and solutions. For instance, users need a host of connected devices like headsets and apps to experience the Metaverse. To that end, let’s look at how CV technology can play a transformational role in the world of AR/VR and Metaverse.

Applications of Computer Vision in AR/VR and Metaverse 

In a March 2022 podcast, Lex Friedman and Mark Zuckerberg shared their future vision for the Metaverse. They talked about the goal of the Metaverse to “closely mimic physical presence by paying close attention to capturing the real self.” This means real-time use cases in the form of emotion tracking, facial expressions, and tiny gestures.

To achieve these goals, computer vision technology must enable:

• Creating a simulated representation of any human being
• Developing a virtual representation of human emotions, lip movements, and facial expressions
• Creating a virtual “avatar” of the person

Here are some of the real-life use cases (or applications) of CV in AR/VR and the Metaverse:

1. Virtual Tourism

Travel innovators are exploring the idea of virtual tourism using AR/VR technology. Even in the Metaverse, travel enthusiasts can go to international destinations and experience historical sites with a multi-sensory device. 

2. Healthcare

Computer vision technology is already powering transformation in the healthcare industry. In the coming decade, a health metaverse (along with CV) will take patient care and education to the next level. For instance, VR-based simulations in the metaverse can facilitate immersive training for aspiring surgeons. An example is that of the HealthLand Metaverse, where users receive health consultations and training advice from experts.

3. eCommerce

Virtual shopping in the Metaverse is already making an impact in the eCommerce sector. Enabled by CV technology, leading retail brands like Nike and Ralph Lauren are building virtual stores where shoppers can purchase their merchandise. The Metaverse can further bridge the gap between eCommerce and the in-store shopping experience.

4. Real Estate

Powered by AR/VR and the Metaverse, the real estate industry is creating a generation of “virtual” property buyers. Metaverse real estate is pockets of land and property in the “virtual” world. An example is that of real estate investor Armando Aguilar whose virtual land on the Sandbox Metaverse increased by 1,400 times its original value. 

How do a CV-powered metaverse and AR/VR benefit enterprises? Let’s discuss that next.

Benefits of Computer Vision in AR/VR and Metaverse 

Computer Vision technology is an essential “building block” for humans to experience the virtual world in AR/VR and Metaverse. For instance, digital avatars in the virtual environment present a user experience that is equivalent to the real world.

CV technology is also essential for implementing Extended Reality (XR) or the creation of real and virtual spaces by wearable devices. For XR-enabled applications, Computer Vision helps in capturing, analyzing, and understanding visual objects as digital images. With CV, XR-enabled devices can identify and comprehend users’ activities and their virtual surroundings. For instance, CV-enabled devices can track human pose based on spatial information.

The use of CV in XR-based applications can benefit by recreating the user environment in a 3D frame. When represented as “avatars” in the Metaverse, human users can now easily perceive the virtual environment. Thus, CV-powered image processing is integral for improving the metaverse.

Similarly, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in CV applications can transform the Metaverse into a commercial success. Using intelligent 3D sensors and CV algorithms, machines or devices can easily map the real physical world to recreate a 3D metaverse world.

For a long time, Computer Vision technology has driven capabilities like tracking human pose, recognizing human gestures, and analyzing human emotions and expressions. Based on how humans interact with their real environment, the Metaverse can develop a multi-sensory and intuitive experience. As CV technology continues to develop, future avatars will emerge more advanced and sophisticated.

Can these integrated solutions work with other enterprise solutions like ERP and CRM? Let’s discuss that next. 

How an Integrated CV Platform Can Deliver Business Value

When integrated with the virtual world, CV delivers business value across industries, including retail, manufacturing, and healthcare. However, to maximize their returns, organizations now need a comprehensive CV platform that integrates the latest technologies. 

For real business value, an integrated CV platform must also work with other enterprise solutions like ERP, CRM, and inventory management systems. For instance, Computer Vision can transform inventory management by providing real-time updates about:

• Out-of-stock items
• Damaged or stolen goods
• Mislabeled products

Similarly, by integrating the CV platform with supply chain and logistics solutions, manufacturers can automate their warehouse management and order fulfillment processes. With AI technologies, manufacturing companies can train their CV models to identify and classify objects in the virtual world.

Conclusion

Immersive technologies like AR/VR and the Metaverse have a beneficial role to play in the future. As enterprises look to leverage these technologies, Computer Vision can prove viable in enabling more business applications and benefits in the virtual world.

With its expertise in CV solutions, KamerAI has enabled companies across industries to maximize their benefits from this technology. We believe that a Computer Vision platform integrated with other enterprise solutions is the way forward in any business environment. Our team of CV experts can deliver real business value by helping you implement a CV platform according to your requirements.

Want to know how our CV solutions can transform your business? Get in touch with our experts today!