The French government has launched a public consultation on the Metaverse, also known as the “virtual immersive universe,” to gather input and shape a “French strategy” for the emerging industry, offering an alternative to the “international giants.” The Directorate General for Enterprise called upon companies, associations, citizens, and researchers to answer a series of questions about “virtual spaces” to allow the public to express their expectations on how to anticipate metaverse technology. The purpose of the consultation is to offer an alternative to the virtual immersive universes offered by the current international giants.
The consultation highlights the rapid development of virtual and augmented reality technology, which has become an “essential part of the economic debate,” with many companies positioning themselves as solution providers or users. The consultation questions citizens about their experience with mixed reality, blockchain, and 3D creation software, as well as their primary concerns and intentions to engage in virtual immersive activities in the future.
Businesses, on the other hand, are asked about the obstacles that could impede the progress of French companies in building metaverses and their expectations for demand from professionals and the general public. They are also asked about what they think the immersive worlds of tomorrow will be based on. The consultation is an effort to position France as a leading player in the development of metaverse technology and offer a more democratic and decentralized alternative to the current global giants in the sector.