The Immersive Metaverse Playbook for Business Leaders: A guide to strategic decision-making and implementation in the metaverse for improved products and services

This book delves into the complex network of technologies that underpin the metaverse and illustrates the convergence of a wide range of technologies that might initially appear unrelated. A thorough guide created by real authorities, it bridges the gaps among the scattered pieces of knowledge that you may have, and stands as an essential resource and must-read for business professionals in virtually any field.The first part offers a comprehensive examination of the metaverse's complex nature, depicted as a space where numerous individuals can gather and interact in real-time within 3D virtual environments, all while preserving distinct and lasting digital identities and records of their activities. This concept is a facet of spatial computing, an encompassing term for technologies that facilitate the creation of virtual or augmented 3D worlds, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), artificial intelligence (AI), computer vision (CV), and sensor technology.A significant aspect of this section is its didactic nature. The narrative places spatial computing within a historical continuum that includes four transformative shifts: the emergence of personal computing, the creation of graphical user interfaces, the proliferation of mobile technology, and the advent of spatial computing as an innovative means of interaction. AR and VR technologies are new modalities for perception and interaction powered by devices and solutions expounded in detail, akin to comprehensive buying guides. The final chapter of this part acts as an all-encompassing manual on 3D imagery and video, replete with advice on employing generative AI for crafting content.The second part embarks on an in-depth exploration of the critical technologies that vitalize the metaverse. It starts with the AI that metamorphoses the metaverse into a responsive and intelligent domain, coupled with tracking and capturing technologies that forge a natural, intuitive user experience by dynamically reacting to user inputs. Termed as the "senses of the Metaverse," these technologies require extensive computational resources and refined processing methods to ensure smooth engagement and minimal latency. This section elucidates the required APIs and software tools for 3D imaging, avatar creation, and the integration of 2D visuals, and enriches readers with a historical backdrop, navigating through cutting-edge advancements and delivering key insights for crafting AR and VR experiences, thus paving the way to Part 3.Part 3 examines the significant influence of the metaverse on societal interactions, forecasting a pivotal impact on diverse aspects of social structures, including familial bonds, personalized experiences, and realms of discovery. It presents the advantages of the metaverse through various case studies, ranging from specialized education and collaborative teamwork to construction oversight and retail. As the potential is mapped out, the authors also deliberate on the challenges stemming from these technologies, touching on data privacy and ethical concerns. The narrative underscores that AR, VR, and the metaverse are concrete new realities that must be accounted for by businesses in all sectors, extending well beyond the gaming and entertainment environments.The concluding section, titled "Why Metaverse Redux," acts as a concise recapitulation and contemplation on the metaverse. It reevaluates the advantages and potential risks, highlighting the transformative shift facilitated by AR and VR technologies towards dynamic, adaptable, and unbounded cooperative ecosystems, transforming our engagement with the world and each other.This book is a fundamental guide for a future that is not merely speculative but is already unfolding around us. It provides business leaders with a significant opportunity to spark their teams' creativity, broaden their scope, and engage a more committed customer base.

I've known both authors for over a decade and know their commitment to the Metaverse, XR, AI, spatial computing and more. This book is a desktop reference, if you plan to prepare yourself, your company, or your society around you, to get informed on the what's current and what's coming.

“The Immersive Metaverse Playbook for Business Leaders” by Irena Cronin and Robert Scoble offers a comprehensive guide to navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of the metaverse for business leaders. The book provides a detailed exploration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies, their integration into the metaverse, and real-world use cases across various sectors including social interaction, work, entertainment, art, and shopping. The book also forecasts the future role of AR and VR within the metaverse, empowering readers to make informed decisions.Baizhu Chen, Marshall School of Business, Univ. of Southern CaliforniaThe book is highly recommended for C-suite executives, investors, entrepreneurs, and tech professional seeking to leverage the potential of the metaverse for business innovation and growth. With its accessible approach and practical insights, this book serves as an essential resource for those looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Having worked at Oculus for 5 years (2013-2018) I was part of the second big rush around the metaverse - after the 90s - and got to know the authors during that time. This coming period with the Apple Vision Pro might be the third and final big push that really does establish AR/VR as the thing to replace iphones - I thought the book carefully and in great detail gives the reader historical context, present walkthrough of what to know and a clear idea of where things might end up if, let's say a cheaper eventual Apple Vision Pro 2 and a souped up Meta Quest 5 really take off. If that does happen having this book will be a goldmine! My only criticism would be a desire for more crypto - there is a fair amount on decentralized metaverse, but could have gone a bit deeper, though perhaps not so relevant for a business audience.

As an XR industry insider since 2015, I think the biggest challenge is keeping decision-makers informed about the ever-evolving landscape. Hype and lack of time often hinder their understanding of this complex yet impactful realm.Irena and Robert's book shines as a clear-cut playbook. It expertly navigates XR's past, present, and future, empowering non-tech leaders to grasp the jargon, technologies, and components. This knowledge equips them to leverage XR for business growth and stay caught up.Furthermore, the book empowers procurement teams to craft informed RFPs and assess vendors and HR departments to prepare for future talent and skill requirements.In essence, this book provides a comprehensive guide for leaders to unlock the vast potential of Spatial Computing and Metaverse.Irena and Robert, you did it again! Congrats!Ps. Thank you for mentioning COVID-19's impact on the industry because it gives context and honors the efforts of so many whose vision could not be executed.