A Survey on Edge Enabled Metaverse: Applications, Technological Innovations, and Prospective Trajectories Within the Industry

• Published in: IEEE access Vol. 12; pp. 125125 - 125144
• Main Authors: Patra, Amaldeep, Pandey, Anjali, Hassija, Vikas, Chamola, Vinay, Mishra, Rajesh P.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Piscataway IEEE 2024; The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE)
• Subjects: Algorithms; Artificial intelligence; Augmented reality; blockchain integration; Blockchains; Computer architecture; Cybersecurity; Data processing; decentralized; Digital systems; digitalization; Edge AI; Edge computing; edge-enabled metaverse; Industrial development; industrial metaverse; Infrastructure; Innovations; Internet of Things; latency; machine learning; Metaverse; Mixed reality; Real time; Surveys; Technological change; Virtual reality
• ISSN: 2169-3536; 2169-3536
• DOI: 10.1109/ACCESS.2024.3452184

As the Metaverse promises to revolutionize human interaction and digital life, the role of edge computing emerges as a critical enabler. This paper presents a comprehensive survey of edge-enabled Metaverse applications, technological innovations, challenges, solutions, and future trajectories within the industry. We dissect the landscape of Metaverse applications across various sectors, analyzing how edge computing empowers real-time, immersive experiences. We delve into the cutting-edge advancements in decentralized computing infrastructure, edge networking, and artificial intelligence shaping the Metaverse, highlighting their potential to overcome latency, bandwidth, and privacy challenges. Additionally, we explore enabling technologies such as 5G and IoT, which facilitate seamless connectivity and data processing. We also address significant challenges, including the need for scalable and resilient infrastructure, data security concerns, and the integration of diverse technologies, proposing viable solutions like enhanced edge AI algorithms and robust cybersecurity frameworks. Finally, we chart prospective trajectories for edge-enabled Metaverse development, identifying key trends and potential disruptive forces that will shape the industry's future. Our survey aims to serve as a definitive resource for researchers, developers, and industry leaders by providing a holistic understanding of edge computing's pivotal role in realizing the boundless potential of the Metaverse.