In recent years, the tech industry has been buzzing with three prominent topics: digital twins, generative AI, and the metaverse. While some might dismiss them as mere buzzwords, these concepts have proven to be more than just hype, especially in the realms of gaming and 3D design.
Companies like Unity and Epic Games have become key players, connecting these hot technology trends and driving innovation.
The Power of Unity and Epic Games Platforms
Unity and Epic Games have gained recognition for their platforms that power some of the most popular video games in history. However, their influence extends beyond gaming. These platforms are widely used for creating experiential 3D designs, virtual reality environments, and simulations across various industries, including industrial and leisure markets.
Democratizing Access to Real-Time 3D Design
To understand the potential of these technologies in democratizing real-time 3D design, Bernard Marr, an esteemed author and technology advisor, recently spoke with Marc Whitten, the President of Create at Unity. They discussed how artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI apps like ChatGPT and Stable Diffusion, will simplify the creation of digital twin simulations and 3D interactive experiences.
This advancement can revolutionize industries such as gaming, automotive, manufacturing, and healthcare that have eagerly embraced these technologies.
ALSO READ – Possibilities of the Metaverse in the Automotive Industry
Real-Time Interactions and Insights
One of the key benefits of this convergence is the ability for users to interact with simulations, digital twins, and immersive environments in real time. With the integration of natural language and AI-based tools, users can extract the information and insights they need simply by asking questions.
For example, a facility supervisor can receive real-time updates on the shop floor or quickly identify the top issues requiring attention.
This seamless interaction between users and virtual environments enhances decision-making processes and empowers individuals to make informed choices promptly.
Redefining the Metaverse
The term “metaverse” has gained significant attention but is often overhyped and lacking a clear definition. Marc Whitten shares his perspective, emphasizing the focus on the next generation of 3D experiences rather than using a blanket term like “metaverse.”
He prefers “digital twin” as it better describes the value companies aim to derive from the technology. This shift in focus highlights the role of 3D environments in facilitating richer interactions, whether in groups or more immersive settings.
Leveraging Gaming Expertise
The expertise and advancements in gaming have paved the way for adopting these technologies across various industries. In the 1990s, 3D graphics technology revolutionized video games, moving away from two-dimensional bitmapped images. Game developers utilizing tools like Unity and Unreal Engine pushed the boundaries of creating realistic, simulated worlds. This expertise is now being tapped by industries such as architecture and automotive manufacturing.
For example, Vancouver Airport built a realistic 3D simulation before any physical construction occurred. At the same time, automobile manufacturers like Daimler adopted the technology for configurator apps that allow buyers to customize their vehicles.
ALSO READ – Interoperability in Metaverse: A Comprehensive Guide
Transforming Industries with Digital Twins
Whitten envisions a future where all industries transform their static, flat data into 3D, real-time models. This transformation reshapes the value chain from the ground up. The journey toward this transformation involves different stages of maturity in digital twin adoption. It starts with a “representative” digital twin that visually models an environment or system. Companies then progress to a “connected” digital twin, incorporating real-world data collected by sensors and scanners.
The ultimate goal is the “predictive twin,” where the simulation and data modelling are sophisticated enough to provide insights into the future. This real-time 3D capability enables decision-makers to simulate future scenarios based on a combination of real and simulated data, facilitating faster and more informed decision-making processes.
Enriching Gaming Experiences with Generative AI
Generative AI holds tremendous potential to revolutionize gaming experiences. It streamlines the content creation process by allowing designers to describe their vision rather than manually creating every aspect using 3D modelling tools. This not only reduces the workload but also opens doors for more creativity.
Furthermore, generative AI enables the creation of non-player characters (NPCs) with realistic intelligence and conversational abilities. Gamers can now interact with NPCs that feel more lifelike and authentic, enhancing immersion and the overall gaming experience.
However, integrating AI processing into the game loop in an economically viable manner remains challenging. Unity is actively working on solutions, including edge computing, which involves running smaller-scale neural networks on players’ devices, offering significant improvements without incurring exorbitant costs.
ALSO READ – How To Open A Virtual Office In The Metaverse
Exciting Opportunities and the Mission Ahead
Whitten expresses immense excitement about the impact of these cutting-edge technology trends on gaming, industries, and the wider economy. At Unity, their mission centres around empowering more creators and infusing AI into experiences.
By embracing these technologies, the world can unlock new possibilities, understand previously unexplored realms, and create more vivid and authentic digital environments. The convergence of digital twins, generative AI, and the metaverse holds extraordinary potential for innovation and advancement.
Wrapping Up
The convergence of digital twins, generative AI, and the metaverse can revolutionize industries, enhance decision-making processes, and transform gaming experiences. Companies like Unity and Epic Games are at the forefront of this convergence, driving innovation and empowering creators.
By embracing these technologies, industries can unlock new frontiers, reshape their value chains, and progress towards a more immersive and technologically advanced future. The conversation between Bernard Marr and Marc Whitten offers a deeper understanding of the convergence and its potential impact across various industries.
Check out the complete conversation here:
Bernard Marr authored an article related to it in Forbes.
