• by Rachel Cone-Gorham , Op-Ed Contributor, June 6, 2023

In the year 2000, half of the adult population still didn't own a cell phone. And according to a Gallup poll at the time, 23% of them firmly believed they would never have one. Looking back, we can see how adoption of technology is inevitable, regardless of initial resistance. This realization serves as a springboard to ponder the transformative potential of the Metaverse, AI, machine learning, robots, and how marketers can shape the future.

The Metaverse, an immersive digital universe, has the power to redefine human experiences. As it evolves, we can envision a future where individuals seamlessly navigate between virtual and real worlds. AI and machine learning will play vital roles in this transformation, enabling hyper-personalization, predictive insights, and unparalleled connectivity. Picture a world where technology anticipates our needs, enhancing our lives in ways we couldn't have imagined.

Robots, much like cell phones, may follow a similar trajectory. Initially, advanced home robots may come with a hefty price tag, comparable to a car. However, as time progresses and adoption grows, costs are likely to decrease, making robots more accessible to a broader population. Brands can explore innovative ways to incorporate robots into our daily lives and experiences.

Imagine a future where the “SWIFFER Robot” becomes the hottest item for effortlessly maintaining a spotless home. This compact, intelligent cleaning companion autonomously navigates your living space, ensuring every nook and cranny is thoroughly tidied up. Not just the floors, but counters, corners and tricky to reach top shelves too. An evolutionary step that would make the Jetsons proud. Additionally, envision a “Nestlé Tollhouse Robot” that, as a free software upgrade, enables you to effortlessly whip up perfect cookies at the touch of a button. These examples illustrate how robots can revolutionize household chores and culinary experiences, making our lives more convenient and enjoyable.

For product owners and marketers, these advancements represent an extraordinary opportunity to drive the future forward. By leveraging the Metaverse, AI, machine learning, and robots, they can create immersive and tailored experiences that deeply engage consumers. Picture advertisements seamlessly integrated into virtual environments, personalized campaigns that anticipate individual preferences, and robots enhancing and streamlining daily tasks. Marketers can fund and facilitate these experiences, propelling society into the future while forging meaningful connections with consumers.

Advertising will enter new dimensions, becoming a catalyst for progress. Brands can leverage storytelling and interactive engagement to shape narratives within the Metaverse. AI and machine learning will analyze vast amounts of data, providing marketers with profound insights into consumer behavior. This understanding will enable them to craft experiences that seamlessly integrate into users’ lives, delivering value and driving the adoption of robots and other emerging technologies.

As marketers, we have the responsibility to drive positive change and guide the evolution of technology for the benefit of humanity. By embracing the potential of the Metaverse, AI, machine learning, robots, and other innovations, we can create transformative experiences that move society forward. Let's venture into uncharted territories, reimagine possibilities, and shape a future where humans and technology coexist harmoniously.