# A Survey of the Real-Time Metaverse: Challenges and Opportunities +
## 3 Key Enabling Technologies: An Overview  
The metaverse represents a burgeoning frontier where the digital and physical worlds converge, offering immersive experiences through advancements in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and other cutting-edge technologies. This section delves into the critical aspects of the metaverse, including blockchain integration, artificial intelligence (AI), edge computing, and the myriad challenges and implications of these innovations. _Blockchain technology_ is foundational for establishing a decentralized, secure, and interoperable metaverse [55]. Blockchain enhances metaverse functionalities such as data acquisition, storage, sharing, interoperability, and privacy preservation. Blockchain ensures the trustworthiness of transactions and interactions by providing a transparent and tamper-proof ledger, essential for managing digital assets and identities in a virtual world [1]. Blockchain can facilitate the creation of interoperable virtual worlds, allowing users to seamlessly transition and securely interact across different platforms, which is crucial for realizing a unified metaverse [56]. In the metaverse, _AI_ is pivotal in enhancing user experiences by enabling more natural and intuitive interactions [55]. AI applications such as natural language processing, computer vision, and neural interfaces are instrumental in creating responsive and adaptive virtual environments [57]. AI-driven avatars, capable of understanding and reacting to user inputs, significantly enhance the realism and immersion of the metaverse [58]. _Edge computing_ complements AI by providing computational power and low-latency communication for real-time interactions in the metaverse [59]. The deployment of the metaverse faces several technological and infrastructural challenges [21]. The role of _5G/6G technology_ in overcoming these hurdles lies in its ability to provide ultra-low latency, high data rates, and enhanced reliability. The proposed layered architecture for integrating 6G with the Metaverse addresses the need for scalable and efficient network infrastructure to handle the vast amounts of data generated by Metaverse applications. Network scalability, data privacy, and security are identified as key challenges [32]. The advanced cryptographic algorithms and robust security protocols protect user data and ensure secure transactions within the metaverse are required [60]. Developing interoperability standards is also critical to facilitate seamless interactions across different virtual environments [61]. _Edge computing_ complements VR and AI by providing the computational power and low-latency communication necessary for real-time interactions in the metaverse. Some research indicates that seamless real-time feedback ensures user safety and effectiveness. Edge computing is essential for the Metaverse, particularly in enhancing the performance and scalability of virtual environments. The role of edge-enabled technologies in managing the real-time demands of VR and AR applications is crucial. By processing data closer to the user, edge computing reduces latency and improves the overall user experience [36]. In addition, integrating advanced queue management algorithms with edge computing, as some research shows, can optimize network performance for data-intensive applications [62]. Network integration is paramount for maintaining the high levels of responsiveness and interaction fidelity required by the metaverse. By processing data closer to the user, edge computing minimizes latency. It ensures high-quality user experiences, particularly in applications that demand immediate feedback and minimal delays, such as health, education, and interactive entertainment. VR and AR are core technologies driving the immersive experiences of the metaverse. Integrating _haptic feedback_ in AR shows how tactile sensations can enhance user interactions in virtual environments [9; 63].