The Metaverse is evolving into a dynamic space for immersive, interactive experiences that seamlessly bridge digital and physical worlds. This clause presents a use case that integrates the oneM2M IoT platform with the ETSI MEC edge computing framework to enable a smart virtual shopping service within the metaverse. By combining live data from IoT-enabled physical stores with edge-hosted AI analytics, the system delivers personalized, low-latency interactions, ensuring a synchronized, context-aware user experience that connects virtual behavior with real-world actions.
In this use case, users enter a virtual shopping mall through VR/AR devices or 3D web platforms. The virtual store environment—including layout, product availability, and environmental conditions—accurately reflects its physical counterpart in real time. This synchronization is enabled by IoT devices deployed throughout the physical store, streaming data such as inventory levels, product locations, temperature, and user presence to a cloud-based oneM2M IN-CSE.
As users browse or interact with virtual shelves, an application running on the MEC edge platform near the physical store processes these interactions in real time. The MEC app subscribes to IoT data from the IN-CSE and applies AI models to analyze device states and user behavior. For example, if a user hovers over a product or virtually picks it up, the system considers stock availability, prior interactions, and related product details to generate personalized recommendations (“People who looked at this also bought…”) or urgent alerts (“Only 2 left in stock!”). This feedback is immediately sent back to the metaverse interface, enriching the shopping experience and encouraging informed decisions.
When a purchase is confirmed in the virtual store, the system initiates real-world operations: the item is marked as reserved or sold in the cloud IoT platform (IN-CSE), and notifications are dispatched to logistics, shelf displays, or store staff. IoT actuators in the physical store, such as digital signage or voice assistants, can respond contextually by providing pickup instructions or other relevant information.
The entire process feels seamless to the user—virtual interactions are tightly grounded in live physical-world data, while AI-driven recommendations create a personalized and engaging shopping journey. This use case showcases how the synergy of oneM2M and MEC can deliver immersive, real-time virtual shopping experiences that link the metaverse with the physical retail environment.
Delivering seamless, personalized, and real-time virtual shopping experiences by integrating MEC edge AI with cloud-based IoT data.
The founding members of this initiative are CNIT, UNIMORE, xFlow, JK Consulting and Projects, FSCOM, Sejong University, Digital SME, Deutsche Telekom AG, Exacta GSS, Networks SRL, and Telecom Italia S.p.A. To register or learn more, contact estimed@etsi.org or visit https://estimed.etsi.org.
About ETSI
ETSI provides members with an open and inclusive environment to support the development, ratification, and testing of globally applicable standards for ICT systems and services across all sectors of industry and society. We are a non-profit body with more than 950 member organizations worldwide, drawn from 64 countries and five continents. Our members include large and small private companies, research entities, academia, government, and public organizations. ETSI is officially recognized by the EU as a European Standardization Organization (ESO). For more information, visit https://www.etsi.org.
Author:
CNIT
