The Need For Regulations In The Reality Shifting Technology

Ayushi Singh, Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Patiala, Punjab

I. Introduction

There are various realities that exist in the world. And one reality in which we all exist is our present, which is the current reality. In this article, there is no discussion about time travel or the multiverse, but something about what we call a metaverse1 where we can travel through with the help of reality-shifting technology: Augmented reality and Virtual reality. However, with a boon to shift reality these technologies have led to certain complications in which there is a need for legal remedy.

Augmented reality is defined as a technology that visualizes a computer-generated image with a real thing, which can be any object, a person, etc.2 The integration of augmented reality in the update to Meta WhatsApp which allows users to use emoji features with the help of gestures in a video call is the recent example.3 Further, the growing use of Snapchat and other filter cameras in the present generation of Zoomers, with which they can use emoji filters on their faces, is a true advancement of augmented reality. Another reality-shifting technology is Virtual Reality, which creates a virtual environment that is perceived through the senses of the users.4 It is a technology that creates a simulation to make a fictional reality exist in virtuality. The use of headsets on cows in Turkey to make them believe that they are in green pastures so that they produce more milk is an innovative example of this reality-shifting virtual reality.