Developments in the metaverse industry have drawn the attention of Australian regulators, with the nation’s telecommunications watchdog now investigating consumer and market trends in the emerging digital realm.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), which regulates phone, internet and gaming content, revealed on Thursday that the metaverse is included in its 2022-23 research program.

The investigation into the metaverse, described by proponents as an immersive virtual realm that bridges the gap between business, gaming and e-commerce, is part of the ACMA’s broader investigation into emerging technology as the regulator seeks to conduct keep track of the rapid developments in digital. ..