Effects of Quantum Technology on the Metaverse

Introduction

Quantum metaverse delves into the connection between the real world and the internet through the concept of the metaverse, a virtual realm that aims to closely mirror reality (Choi et al., 2022). It seeks to create a social environment that combines elements of gaming, simulation, and social media to construct a fictional world resembling our own. Facebook and decentralized organizations like Decenterland are actively working towards the realization of the metaverse (Damodaran, 2023).

Quantum computing is poised to play a pivotal role in the development of the metaverse. By harnessing quantum randomness, developers can ensure the integrity of the protective measures employed within the metaverse (Bhattacharya et al., 2023). This technology holds tremendous potential for enhancing security and furthering the metaverse's evolution (Duan et al., 2021).

The advent of Web 3.0 technologies, including video, augmented reality, and virtual reality, enables users to immerse themselves more deeply in a digital world, irrespective of their physical location (Billewar et al., 2022). This connectivity empowers users to engage in electronic interactions, travel, and information sharing. As the world witnesses the largest cryptographic migration in history, quantum-resistant security approaches take center stage in safeguarding the future internet (Alladi et al., 2022; Wang et al., 2022; Sihare & Nath, 2017a).

Quantum computing boasts a wide range of significant applications that may eventually integrate into the metaverse. Deploying quantum-resistant technology may be necessary to protect transactions from algorithms like Shor's Algorithm (Perlner et al., 2009; Allende et al., 2023). Considerations about blockchain systems that can withstand quantum effects also arise. With the metaverse gaining momentum, businesses are actively seeking tools and technologies that provide a competitive advantage and enable them to navigate the metaverse's landscape, spurred by the recent developments surrounding Facebook's initiatives (Allam et al., 2022; Dwivedi et al., 2022; Julian et al., 2023). This newfound focus on the metaverse indicates a shift in attention among global technical enterprises towards this emerging paradigm and the potential expansion of the internet (Cook, 2008; Sihare & Nath, 2017b).

Unlike conventional supercomputers, quantum computers possess working memory capable of storing diverse data combinations to solve real-world problems (Gill et al., 2022). Embracing ecosystem-based tactics recognizes the collaborative nature required to satisfy customers, acknowledging that no single business can fully meet all their needs (Layzer, 2008).

The quantum metaverse environment is poised to bring significant changes to various fields in the future, including security, computation, simulation, machine learning, and communication (Zhao et al., 2023). Quantum computing has revolutionized processing power, paving the way for a new golden age of software engineering. Currently valued at $47.69 billion, the Metaverse market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 43.3% until 2028¹. The technological advancements in the Metaverse and Omniverse parallel those depicted in recent science fiction works (Ning et al., 2023). Quantum computing offers the potential for swift tracking of ESG metrics and contributes to the pursuit of UN SDGs (Bonime-Blanc, 2019). Accenture Ventures has strategically invested in The Good Chemistry Company, while Pascal excels in atom-neutral quantum computing, partnering with Microsoft to make its technologies accessible (Nassimbeni et al., 2008).