NFT artwork that is two-dimensional, such as images, music and videos still dominate the NFT market. However, NFTs are now able to extend into the third dimension with immersive technologies such as AR and VR.
Immersive NFTs allow us to create new experiences in our metaverse. The new NFT class allows users to interact with content in surprising ways. Immersive NFTs are a new way to redefine digital ownership. They will act as bridges between digital and physical realities and play an essential role in the development of metaverse applications.
AR and VR are two distinct technologies.
AR creates an interactive experience that combines the user’s real world with digital content. VR, on the other hand works in a virtual world. Accessing AR applications is easy for many people because they only require smartphones, tablets, and AR-enabled websites. To transport to the virtual worlds created by VR technology, however, headsets such as the Oculus Rift are required.
The underlying technologies can be different so the NFT immersive applications that are created with them are also different.
Immersive NFTs powered By AR
Many of our readers will recall Pascal Boyart’s QR code embedded in one of his street-mural artworks. This QR code allowed the artist to receive donations in Bitcoin from art lovers. QR is an augmented reality tool that allows the artist to link the real world and the digital.
Kivisense, for example, introduced a virtual-try-on NFT sneaker. This allows consumers to experience wearable NFTs using AR. The same technology can be used for other product types, such as jewelry or fashion items. DressX was founded on the concept of digital-only fashion in order to reduce overproduction of physical clothes. AR technology allows users to try wearables and offers them as NFTs.
These applications aside, almost any AR experience can be converted into immersive NFTs, such as the face filters and world lense we’re used to on social media, especially Instagram and Snapchat.
Immersive NFTs powered with VR
It is possible to create VR-ready NFTs, and then use them in a virtual universe compatible with the blockchain network that built it. This way, any asset real can be placed in the metaverse. The limitations of the physical world do not limit anything.
For example, think about NFT items found in MMORPGs. These items can be made VR-ready right from the beginning, and creators can use emerging technologies such as AI and dynamic NFTs in order to create new immersive experiences. Everything depends on your imagination.
It is a complex task to model 3D products in the virtual world. Many examples can be found in interior design and architecture. This area is led by Andres Reisinger, a designer. As NFTs, he creates furniture that is surreal. Many of his creations can be placed in virtual worlds like Decentraland.
It is important to mention that VR technology is used by many digital sculptors. Joshua Skirtich, for example, created his Jenesis collection using VR, and then merged it with AR for the best viewing experience possible for Guggenheim visitors.