China has recently expressed its interest in influencing the metaverse, a virtual world that is gaining traction and popularity. Their proposals for the metaverse bear similarities to China’s controversial social credit systems.
The proposals, drafted by China Mobile, the state-owned telecommunications operator, emphasize the establishment of a “Digital Identity System” specifically tailored for metaverse users. This ID system would encompass both “natural characteristics” and “social characteristics” of individuals. These characteristics would include personal data points such as occupation and identifiable signs. One particularly notable aspect of the proposals is the recommendation that this compiled information should be permanently stored and accessible to law enforcement agencies to ensure the order and safety of the virtual world. Politico first reviewed and reported on these proposals.
To illustrate the potential impact of the proposed digital identity system, a hypothetical scenario is included in the proposals. In this scenario, a metaverse user named “Tom” is depicted as someone who disrupts the virtual peace by spreading rumors and creating chaos. With the digital identity system in place, authorities would have the ability to identify and penalize Tom swiftly.
It is important to note that these discussions are not limited to China’s borders. They are part of broader dialogues between global tech specialists and officials affiliated with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a branch of the United Nations responsible for formulating global regulations that shape the trajectory of technological evolution.
Chinese public and private stakeholders have been actively working to establish global benchmarks for emerging technologies within the ITU. However, Western officials have expressed concerns about China’s approach, highlighting the country’s intention to advocate for a more government-regulated model of the internet and telecommunications.
Despite the controversy surrounding China’s social credit systems, the country has recognized the potential of the metaverse and other Web3 technologies. In a recent discourse in June, Wu Zhong-ze, the former Deputy Minister of China’s Ministry of Science and Technology, emphasized the pivotal role the metaverse could play in various sectors. This recognition comes as China enforces strict regulations around cryptocurrencies and NFTs but acknowledges the potential of Web3 technologies to drive digital economic growth.
Wu Zhong-ze stressed the importance of integrating the metaverse into key economic sectors such as education, commerce, healthcare, and entertainment. He envisions a future where harnessing the metaverse can bring transformative advantages, paving the way for unprecedented opportunities within these industries.
China’s focus on the metaverse goes beyond mere exploration. As the metaverse landscape continues to grow rapidly, China emphasizes the need to establish industry benchmarks. These benchmarks serve as the foundation for the growth, stability, and ethical progression of the metaverse ecosystem. Through clear parameters, China aims to create a metaverse arena that fosters innovation, promotes collaboration, and ensures regulatory compliance.
China is determined to shape the future of the metaverse. However, by intertwining technological advancements with strict monitoring, the country walks a fine line between innovation and restrictions on its users. The global community closely watches these developments, mindful of the implications they may have on China’s metaverse blueprint.
