Immersive Media and the Metaverse

A precise understanding of what a potential Metaverse may hold for the future is yet to be determined. However, some of its basic tenets are starting to take shape, including: preference for 3D formats over traditional 2D video, digital currencies, interoperability between Metaverse applications, interactivity, and more. With respect to these aspects that are likely to effect change, perhaps one of the more profound possible changes will be the distribution and interoperability of 3D media. Today, the Internet is largely tuned for the distribution of 2D media. What will it take to make the shift to 3D media? What are some of the considerations; what are the 3D media formats that will be used; what is meant by the term “immersive media?” This article will provide an introduction and motivations for immersive media, and some of the considerations for achieving its distribution at scale in preparation for the potential Metaverse.