One approach to building the metaverse is winning ground. This involves mapping the physical world in order to create a mirror world, and then creating AR experiences.
Geolocation is the basis of 3D maps that are used to generate metaverses that combine physical and virtual worlds. We need imagery of the locations to build these maps. There are many ways to create this imagery.
For example, we can use satellite-based techniques like GPS. GPS is not able to work indoors and it does not provide the accuracy required for immersive experiences. An AR application can only be as accurate as the internal GPS of the smartphone. This is accurate for most smartphones to within 4.9m under the open skies. The accuracy drops if there is a building near.
AR experiences require centimeter-level accuracy. To create high-quality 3D maps, we need other methods.
What’s Map2Earn?
Another option is to reward users who create content with their smartphones by using videos and images. This is how companies crowdsource map creation and users map earn.
Take the AR game Pokemon Go, where players around the world suggest physical locations that they think would be fun to play the game. The game allows gamers to submit photos of these locations in order to be used for the creation of maps.
OVER – a company that provides AR metaverse infrastructure and decentralized AR services – is leading a new earning system. It uses a similar model. Map2Earn rewards users who generate imagery to create 3D maps.
How can users make money with Map2Earn?
Users – , also known as mappers, scan physical locations using their smartphones to give raw data for map construction. This data is used to generate 3D maps and then mints them as NFTs. The maps are owned by the users. They can then trade them on the NFT Marketplace of OVER and other NFT Marketplaces.
OVER will soon launch an incentive program that allows open-to-buy direct orders to buy 3D maps.
Map2Earn and OVER: How does it work?
The OVER app aids the mapper in the capture process. It takes approximately 5 minutes per OVER land. This is equivalent to 300 sqm. The following three assets will be created as a result.
#1 3D Point Cloud of the Location
The capture guide gives the mapper a visual reference of the exact 3D structure at the location where he or she wants to include AR experiences.
#2 Observer’s position based on a relocalization method
The OVER app uses the 3D point cloud to determine the location and implements a relocalization algorithm of 20cm accuracy to locate you. This is essential to deliver a cohesive experience.
#3 Digital twin to the mapped area
By creating its digital twin, the app can simulate the location of the mapped area using a neural radiation fields (NeRF), algorithm. The app offers a virtual drone flight-through of the mapped area. The future will allow users to explore the area remotely and experience geolocalized AR content.
Download the beta version of the OVER app by clicking here.
The bottom line
Map2Earn models have positive implications for the entire metaverse ecosystem. It can support metaverse projects in much the same way that Move2Earn and Play2Earn models helped blockchain games and fitness apps.
Blockchain technology will allow users to take part in immersive AR experiences, and receive rewards. Metaverse companies will also improve their applications by using the high-quality 3D mapping their communities create.
NFT News Today’s Map2Earn: Merging Physical & Virtual Worlds originally appeared on NFT News Today.
