While the industry is generally in its infant stages, many agree that China is leading the way in creating metaverse experiences.
Two Chinese tech firms are offering Chinese viewers a metaverse experience as they stream the 2022 Qatar FIFA World Cup. The two firms, Migu and Douyin, reportedly obtained the broadcasting rights to the Qatar World Cup at sky-high prices and will sub-license state-owned broadcast firm, China Media Group.
According to Migu, users can enjoy the World Cup games at the firm’s virtual interactive space using VR headsets. Migu first announced its intention in July when its CCO, Gan Yuqing steed the firm would create a world-first virtual environment to watch the games. Yuqing also added that the firm will hold a World Cup Music festival on the metaverse. He also stated he will feature a surprise guest from the future.
Similarly, ByteDance-owned streaming company, Douyin, announced its broadcast services for the World Cup. Another ByteDance Subsidiary, Pico, has invited users to use its VR headsets to enjoy cup matches in a digital space. It also encouraged potential users to invite their friends for a shared metaverse experience.
According to You Xi, Co-founder of the Kandon app, the World Cup is the biggest stage for the world’s most popular sport and the perfect marketing opportunity for any company to showcase its works.
Metaverse Experience: China Leading the Way
While the industry is generally in its infant stages, many agree that China is leading the way in creating metaverse experiences.
As of February, several Chinese tech firms had made metaverse investments. Earlier in November, several Chinese agencies, including the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, unveiled a plan to improve VR tech and boost the industry. The plan detailed a five-year plan from 2022 to 2026 to boost the industry by about $49 billion.
Independent industry observer, Chen Jia, believes the World Cup provides a perfect opportunity to test progress in real-time. Jia believes the test will give China an early foothold in the industry. Jia noted, “Through the application of various scenarios in the metaverse of this World Cup, China can also test the overall quality of the industry chain in the field of virtual reality technology.”
Internet analyst, Guo Tao, believes the current tech is immature and needs market verification. He noted the industry is still in its infant stages and there is still limited application in the sports industry.
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