Analysts from GlobalData have identified key advancements that they believe will drive the metaverse’s success and increase its adoption.
One of the major obstacles to the metaverse’s growth is latency, and companies are working on various solutions to tackle this issue, depending on their technical expertise and business strategies. These solutions could include improvements to network protocols, software applications, or hardware like chips and AR/VR devices.
A potential solution to latency is a new internet protocol from Syntropy called DARP (Decentralized Autonomous Routing Protocol). DARP connects global data centers and can detect performance issues, quickly switching to a better-performing channel when needed. GlobalData suggests that protocols like DARP will help reduce network latency, supporting the metaverse and Web 3.0 applications thanks to their decentralized nature.
Wi-Fi 7 is another solution on GlobalData’s radar for reducing latency. With advanced multi-link operation (MLO), Wi-Fi 7 devices can combine channels and switch between them quickly, ensuring consistent performance even in crowded, high-density networks. The growing demand for higher internet speeds, driven by emerging technologies, further highlights the need for these advancements. According to GlobalData, combining decentralized routing protocols with technologies like Wi-Fi 7, blockchain, and edge computing can offer better throughput and lower latency than current networks.
On the application side, GlobalData highlights a SaaS-based conferencing app from Swiss startup TYXIT. This app uses patented technology to achieve latency of under 30ms, making it feel like people are in the same room. Such low latency could be key to delivering real-time sound and creating more immersive experiences, such as virtual concerts in the metaverse.
Lastly, cutting-edge peripherals will play a significant role in enhancing immersive experiences. A partnership between Vuzix, a wearable computing company, and Verizon, a mobile operator, is helping to improve Vuzix’s smart glasses. By leveraging Verizon’s 5G and edge computing technologies, Vuzix’s smart glasses now offer longer battery life, higher computing power, and faster response times.
As more people participate in the metaverse, the demand for synchronization grows, increasing the network load. Emerging technologies have the potential to minimize latency and be crucial for the metaverse’s success.
