KAOHSIUNG (TVBS News) — Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai adopted a virtual avatar on Monday (Dec. 4) to partake in various digital experiences, marking a significant step towards establishing Kaohsiung as a city of the future.
The city's technology sector has collaborated with the Kaohsiung government to create a training hub that integrates 5G and VIVERSE, a component of VIVE Reality's vision. This vision incorporates XR, AI, blockchain, and high-speed connectivity, aiming to cultivate interconnected lifestyles.
In an effort to leverage Kaohsiung City's rich local culture, unique virtual venues are being developed for the public to experience arts and cultural events in cyberspace.
Under the Metacity project, digital technology has been employed to construct a 1:1 scale of distinctive virtual exhibition halls such as the Kaohsiung Music Center and the National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts, Weiwuying. The project's objective is to establish Kaohsiung as a model Metacity.
Technology firms have set up research and development centers at Startup Terrace Kaohsiung. Their focus is on developing the metaverse ecosystem and nurturing professional talent.
HTC's marketing vice president Huang Chao-ying introduced the concept of Digital Twinning, employing metaverse technology to demonstrate the potential future appearance of the city post-urban renewal.
From Monday, 20,000 "Virtual Homes" in the Metacity are available, offering citizens complimentary experiences and the chance to personalize their spaces within the metaverse, effectively becoming residents of this new virtual world.