Technology

Unlocking Immortality: The Rise of Virtual Reality Avatars

Monday 01 April 2024 - 14:00

In the realm of technology, the boundaries between the real and the virtual are blurring at an unprecedented pace. One such innovation poised to challenge the limits of mortality is the virtual reality tool known as "live forever mode," a creation of technology entrepreneur Artur Sychov.

When faced with the heartbreaking prospect of losing his father to cancer, Sychov embarked on a mission to preserve the essence of human connection beyond the confines of physical existence. Thus, "live forever mode" was born—a groundbreaking platform that harnesses artificial intelligence to create digital avatars capable of emulating a person's voice, mannerisms, and movements with remarkable precision, after just 30 minutes of observation.

The concept behind "live forever mode" is as ambitious as it is profound. By immortalizing one's essence in the digital realm, Sychov envisions a future where loved ones can interact with their departed kin, preserving their memories and wisdom for generations to come.

For Sychov, the benefits of such technology are self-evident. "You can get to know the person," he explains, "You can hear their voice... You get to talk to them about different topics, and you get to inject a little bit of their personality." With each interaction, the avatar becomes increasingly indistinguishable from its human counterpart, offering solace to those grappling with loss.

Yet, as with any innovation that challenges the boundaries of mortality, ethical considerations abound. Cyber psychologist Elaine Kasket warns of the potential exploitation of existential fears for commercial gain, cautioning against the commodification of immortality.

Despite these concerns, Sychov's company, Somnium Space, is forging ahead with trials of "live forever mode" at its headquarters in Prague, Czech Republic. Operating within a 3D metaverse platform, users navigate a virtual landscape where they exist as avatars, engaging in a myriad of activities from gaming to socializing.

For users like UltraLord, based in Budapest, Hungary, the allure of immortality is irresistible. "In a way, we all want to live forever in the things that we do," he reflects, expressing a desire for his legacy to transcend generations through his digital avatar.

Yet, with the promise of immortality comes a sobering reality—once created, these avatars exist beyond the control of their creators. UltraLord acknowledges this existential quandary, conceding, "If it ever goes rogue, then I really don't know what to do."

As "live forever mode" prepares for its official launch later this year, questions linger regarding its implementation and sustainability. While the prospect of eternal digital presence is tantalizing, the ethical implications and practical considerations underscore the need for thoughtful discourse and responsible innovation in the pursuit of virtual immortality.