OPENVERSE identifies key tech domains shaping the EU’s immersive future
As the European Union embraces the transition to Virtual Worlds and Web 4.0, a growing challenge lies in orchestrating the convergence of technologies needed to make these environments both functional and future-proof. The OPENVERSE project, through its research and Deliverable D5.3, has developed a powerful conceptual tool to meet this challenge: the Building Blocks Framework.
These Building Blocks are not mere categories—they are technological and thematic pillars that define the architecture of Virtual Worlds. From AI and interoperability to connectivity, computing power, content creation and human-machine interfaces, these domains span the foundational components of immersive digital environments.
Why building blocks matter
The Building Blocks approach is essential for two main reasons:
- Strategic alignment – It ensures that EU projects, policies and funding priorities are built on a shared understanding of what Virtual Worlds require.
- Collaboration facilitation – It allows OPENVERSE to map and engage with relevant EU initiatives, matching their scope with precise domains of innovation.
Through this lens, OPENVERSE has identified and analysed over 40 EU-funded projects, categorising them according to the Building Blocks to which they contribute. This mapping allows the project to spot gaps, overlaps, and collaboration opportunities—enabling targeted outreach and deeper coordination with existing efforts.
Key technological domains
The report defines several key Building Blocks, including:
- Interoperability & Standards
- Immersive Content & User Experience
- Artificial Intelligence & Data
- Human-Computer Interfaces
- Edge and Cloud Computing
- Security, Privacy & Ethics
- Connectivity & Infrastructure
- Digital Twins and Simulation
- Skills & Social Adoption
Each of these is supported by several ongoing projects, some of which may not identify as “Virtual Worlds projects” per se, but whose outcomes are critical to their development. This cross-fertilization is vital to avoid silos and reinforce the open, inclusive and interoperable nature of the ecosystem envisioned by OPENVERSE.
A tool for ecosystem growth
The Building Blocks classification doesn’t just structure engagement—it helps translate complex research outputs into actionable insights. Whether you’re a policymaker, a developer, or a stakeholder from a related EU initiative, this framework provides a common vocabulary for understanding how your work fits into the broader picture.
As Virtual Worlds technology matures, this model will serve as a blueprint for prioritising investments, co-developing roadmaps, and ensuring strategic coherence at both national and European levels.
Next steps
This methodology will guide future deliverables and OPENVERSE’s ongoing stakeholder engagement. By building collaboration around shared technological domains, the project aims to foster an EU Virtual Worlds ecosystem that is robust, sustainable, and forward-looking.
Stay tuned for the upcoming interactive version of the Building Blocks map, which will be integrated into the OPENVERSE Observatory.
Learn More
📄 Learn more about the project and its scope on CORDIS
🌐 Visit the OPENVERSE Project Observatory
📬 For collaboration opportunities, contact [email protected]