Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs Hosts Meeting to Promote Immersive Technology Utilization

Promoting Immersive Technologies in Japan: A New Initiative by the Ministry of Internal Affairs

On January 20, 2023, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) in Japan announced the convening of a key meeting aimed at accelerating the deployment of immersive technologies. The gathering, known as the "Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration Meeting for Promoting Immersive Technology Utilization," will focus on exploring the best practices for the dissemination and usage of technologies like Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR).

Objectives of the Meeting

The primary goal of this meeting is to address how immersive technologies can be leveraged across various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, transportation, healthcare, education, culture, and government. As these technologies continue to evolve, they are increasingly recognized as powerful tools for solving social issues by merging physical and virtual spaces. Despite their potential, the current adoption rates remain relatively low, and this meeting aims to tackle the challenges impeding wider utilization.

Participants will include service providers of virtual spaces, device manufacturers, business users, and other key stakeholders involved in immersive technology. Together, they will share insights and engage in discussions aimed at refining the principles established in the MIC’s research group on achieving a secure and safe metaverse. Furthermore, the meeting will deliberate on the most effective approaches for raising awareness and promoting the usage of immersive technologies.

Key Discussion Points

The meeting will cover several critical areas, including but not limited to:
1. Promotion of Immersive Technology Utilization: Exploring innovative ways to encourage the integration of immersive technologies into various industries.
2. Metaverse Principles: Assessing and revising the current principles governing the metaverse to ensure they meet contemporary requirements and expectations.
3. Additional Immersive Technology-Related Matters: This will include a broad range of topics tied to immersive technologies, aiming to foster constructive dialogue among stakeholders.

Participants and Schedule

The structure of the meeting will encompass various stakeholders, as outlined in the official agenda. The first meeting is scheduled for January 27, 2023, followed by a series of subsequent sessions. These meetings will be publicly announced through the Ministry's official website, ensuring transparency and engagement with the community.

Conclusion

As immersive technologies continue to transform society, initiatives like the Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration Meeting hosted by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs are crucial. By bringing together a diverse range of participants to discuss and promote the effective use of immersive technologies, this effort aims not only to enhance the growth of these technologies but also to ensure their safe and beneficial integration into everyday life. The outcome of this collaboration will play a significant role in shaping Japan's technological landscape in the coming years.

For any inquiries related to the meeting, stakeholders can contact the Ministry via the provided channels. The MIC is committed to facilitating a fruitful dialogue and advancing the potential of immersive technologies for a better future.