Metaverse and geospatial mapping: Spatial mapping can make or break the metaverse

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• July 7, 2023

Insight highlights

Geospatial technologies are integral for constructing immersive metaverse spaces, echoing digital twins used for city simulations. Using geospatial data, businesses can optimally place their digital twins and evaluate virtual real estate. Tools like SuperMap's BitDC system and 3D photogrammetry find applications in the metaverse. The implications include aiding urban planning, enhancing game development, fostering job creation in geospatial mapping, but also posing data privacy concerns, potential misinformation, and job displacement in traditional fields.

Metaverse and geospatial mapping context

The most practical use of geospatial technologies and standards is in virtual spaces replicating the real world, as these would rely on mapping data to create a seamless and immersive experience for users. As these virtual environments become increasingly complex, there is a growing need for comprehensive databases to accommodate the vast amounts of physical and conceptual information necessary for efficient streaming and operation. In this context, metaverse spaces can be likened to digital twin technologies that cities and states employ for simulation, citizen engagement, and other purposes. 

Implementing 3D Geospatial Standards can significantly enhance the construction and functionality of these metaverse spaces. The Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) has developed numerous standards tailored for the metaverse, including the Indexed 3D Scene Layer (I3S) for efficient 3D streaming, the Indoor Mapping Data Format (IMDF) to facilitate navigation within indoor spaces, and Zarr for managing data cubes (multi-dimensional data arrays).

The laws of geography, which form the foundation for geospatial technologies, will also have a significant role in virtual worlds. Just as geography governs the organization and structure of the physical world, virtual spaces will require similar principles to ensure consistency and coherence. Users navigating these virtual environments will demand maps and other tools to help them understand and interact with these spaces. 

Disruptive impact

Companies are increasingly realizing the potential of integrating GIS technology within the metaverse to optimize the placement of their digital twins. By leveraging geospatial data, businesses can analyze virtual foot traffic and evaluate the value of surrounding virtual real estate. This information allows them to make informed decisions regarding the most strategic locations to establish their digital presence, ensuring maximum visibility and engagement with their target audience. 

SuperMap, a China-based company, launched its BitDC technology system, comprising big data, artificial intelligence, 3D, and distributed GIS tools, which will be integral in establishing the metaverse. Another tool that will likely become more commonly used in the metaverse is 3D photogrammetry, which has already transformed multiple industries, such as building information modeling (BIM) for construction, virtual production, and gaming. By capturing and converting real-world objects and environments into highly detailed 3D models, this technology has significantly expanded the potential applications of geospatial data. 

Meanwhile, researchers are beginning to employ GIS to study digital twins representing Earth, countries, or communities for various purposes, including climate change analysis and scenario planning. These digital representations provide an invaluable resource for scientists, enabling them to simulate the impacts of different climate change scenarios, study their effects on ecosystems and populations, and develop adaptive strategies. 

Implications of metaverse and geospatial mapping

Wider implications of metaverse and geospatial mapping may include: 

• Urban planners and utility companies using geospatial tools and digital twins to monitor projects, address real-life issues, and prevent disruptions in essential services.


• Game developers heavily relying on geospatial and generative AI tools in their design process, allowing small publishers to compete.


• New opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs to generate revenue through virtual goods, services, and advertising. 


• As geospatial mapping in the metaverse becomes more sophisticated, it can be used to create realistic simulations of political situations and events. This feature could enhance public engagement in political processes, as citizens can virtually attend rallies or debates. However, it may also enable the spread of misinformation and manipulation, as virtual events can be fabricated or altered.


• Advances in various technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), and AI. These innovations will not only enhance the user experience but also have applications in other fields, such as medicine, education, and entertainment. However, data privacy and security concerns may arise as technology becomes more pervasive.


• Job opportunities emerging in geospatial mapping, generative AI, and digital world design. This shift may lead to the re-skilling of the workforce and create demand for new educational programs. Conversely, traditional jobs in retail, tourism, and real estate sectors may decline as virtual experiences become more popular.


• Geospatial mapping raising awareness of environmental issues, such as climate change and deforestation, by providing immersive experiences that allow users to witness the effects firsthand. Additionally, the metaverse may reduce the need for physical transportation, potentially reducing carbon emissions. 

Questions to consider

• What features would make it easier for you to navigate and enjoy virtual experiences?


• How might accurate mapping help metaverse developers create a more immersive experience?