A new strategy for Web 4.0 and virtual worlds has been sleepless by the European Commission in an effort to lead the next technological revolution and ensure a safe, open and welcoming online environment for individuals, organizations and government agencies across the EU.

Web 4.0, the next generation of the Internet, is expected to integrate digital and real objects and environments, improving human-machine interactions. The outlook for the EU economy beyond 2030 identifies digitization as a key driver, with Web 4.0 as a significant technology transition that will bring about an interconnected, intelligent and immersive world. The global market for virtual worlds is projected to grow from €27 billion in 2022 to more than €800 billion in 2030.

The new strategy aims to create Web 4.0 and virtual worlds that reflect EU values ​​and principles, where people’s rights are fully respected and European businesses can prosper. The strategy aligns with the 2030 goals of the Digital Decade policy agenda and its key digitization pillars: skills, business and public services. It also addresses the openness and global governance of virtual worlds and Web 4.0.

The key pillars of the strategy include:

1. Empowering people and building skills: The Commission plans to promote the guiding principles for virtual worlds and develop a ‘citizens’ toolbox’ by the first quarter of 2024. It will also work with Member States to establish a talent pool and support skills development through funded projects. by the Digital Europe Program and the Creative Europe programme.
2. Supporting a European Web 4.0 Industrial Ecosystem: The Commission has proposed a Candidate Partnership on Virtual Worlds under Horizon Europe, possibly as early as 2025, to foster research excellence and develop an industrial and technology roadmap for the worlds virtual.
3. Supporting social progress and virtual public services: The Commission is launching two new public flagships, “CitiVerse”, an immersive urban environment for city planning and management, and a European virtual human twin, which will replicate the human body to support clinical and personal decisions. treatment.
4. Shaping global standards for open and interoperable virtual worlds and Web 4.0: The Commission will engage with Internet governance stakeholders around the world and promote Web 4.0 standards in line with the EU’s vision and values.

The strategy builds on the European Commission’s work on virtual worlds and consultations with citizens, academics and businesses. The Commission hosted a European Citizens’ Panel on Virtual Worlds between February and April 2023, whose recommendations have guided specific actions included in the strategy on Web 4.0 and virtual worlds.

The Commission’s initiative is a significant step in ensuring that the future of the Internet and virtual worlds is shaped by a wide range of stakeholders, reflecting diverse perspectives and interests. It highlights the EU’s commitment to lead the next technological transition, foster innovation and ensure that the digital environment remains open, secure and inclusive.