Standardized multimedia technologies play a critical role in advancing metaverse applications, offering immersive experiences that deeply engage users within dynamic environments. The potential for these immersive services continues to grow as devices for volume capturing and rendering become more accessible.

Nokia has developed the world's first standards-based real-time volumetric video communication system. This technology allows viewers to choose their viewing angle or position while navigating virtual environments. This feature not only enables access to a shared 3D space in the metaverse, where users can interact with three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) models in real time, but it also heightens the realism of the experience by eliminating the constraints of fixed viewing angles or positions.

Achieving this level of engagement necessitates the development of a wide range of new technologies that address the requirements for compressing, storing, and delivering volumetric media. All these technologies need to function in harmony. Furthermore, the successful development of these applications depends on the collaborative efforts of the people behind these technologies, all striving towards a common goal.

A new platform for accelerating the adoption of volumetric media services

At Nokia, we are convinced that interoperability and collaboration are essential for realizing the metaverse's vast potential and exponential benefits. This belief led us to be among the first Metaverse Standards Forum (MSF) members, a vital initiative propelling the metaverse forward. The forum serves as a crucial platform for collaboration and coordination among standards development organizations (SDOs) and the broader industry.

Since its establishment in 2022, MSF has experienced significant growth, now boasting over 2,400 members, and Nokia has been instrumental in developing the forum. Furthermore, we are proud to be among the first to serve on the MSF board, which underscores our dedication to shaping the future of the metaverse.

Now, two years later, we are also spearheading the efforts of the newly proposed Volumetric Media Interoperability Exploratory Group (EG). Established in January 2024, the group’s primary mission is to build a better understanding of volumetric media, identify relevant areas of application, and establish compatibility requirements for different systems. We at Nokia see this as a much-needed development, as the volumetric media ecosystem is becoming fragmented due to widespread interest and isolated initiatives.

The EG targets to establish an official working group (WG) by the end of the second quarter of 2024. Following this, the WG will serve as an official platform to facilitate discussions among multiple SDOs and industry forums to develop volumetric media tools. The publication of materials such as white papers is intended to aid in developing necessary standards in other forums. Additionally, we plan to organize workshops and contribute to conferences and trade shows to showcase the latest technologies and results, among other activities.

Tech innovators wanted: Join our pioneering exploratory group today

We welcome new members from corporations, academic institutions, and individual tech experts to join the EG. Joining now offers a unique chance to help shape the future of volumetric media services and influence the scope of the work.

We believe that standards matter and collaboration is key. Nokia has over 30 years of experience creating cutting-edge technology innovation, and we’re actively driving standardization in various industry platforms. Our initiative and cooperation for the Volumetric Video once again demonstrate Nokia’s position as a leader in developing and implementing the standards that will result in true multimedia innovation.

Interested? Get in touch if you’d like to participate!