Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Our Next Reality: How the AI-powered Metaverse Will Reshape the World

Rate this book
Over the last 100 years, technology has changed our world. Over the next decade it will transform our reality. The planet is headed for a momentous upheaval, and we are not prepared.We are entering a new technological age in which artificial intelligence and immersive media will transform society at all levels, mediating our lives by altering what we see, hear, and experience. Powered by immersive eyewear and driven by interactive AI agents, this new age of computing has the potential to make our world a magical place where the boundaries between the real and the virtual, the human and the artificial, rapidly fade away. If managed well, this could unleash a new age of abundance. If managed poorly, this technological revolution could easily go astray, deeply compromising our privacy, autonomy, agency, and even our humanity.In Our Next Reality, two industry veterans provide a data-driven debate on whether the new world we're creating will be a technological utopia or an AI-powered dystopia and gives guidance on how to aim for the best future we can. With a Foreword by renowned author Neal Stephenson and section contributions from industry thought-leaders such as Peter H. Diamandis, Tom Furness, Phillip Rosedale, Tony Parisi, Avi Bar Zeev and Walter Parkes, this book answers over a dozen of the most pressing questions we face as AI/VR/AR accelerates the digitization of our world. Find out why our actions in the next decade could determine the trajectory of our species for countless millennia.

466 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 7, 2024

54 people are currently reading
245 people want to read

About the author

Alvin W. Graylin

1 book15 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
112 (69%)
4 stars
24 (14%)
3 stars
14 (8%)
2 stars
4 (2%)
1 star
8 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
263 reviews11 followers
December 12, 2024
A must read for anyone interested in the Metaverse and AR/VR platforms.
I have to say that this book positively surprised me. I started reading it without any real expectations except to learn a little about the hype over the Metaverse and try to see if it is only smoke and mirrors.

Well, here I am, finished completely with the book, absolutely amazed, with a Meta Quest 3 in my hands. Simply put, halfway through the book I was so impressed and fascinated that I decided to order a VR headset just to see it for myself and try to understand the authors' POVs.

The book not only covers the Metaverse but also the current progress of AI, implementation of LLMs in the metaverse, and a lot of practical and philosophical thoughts regarding the future of our society in an AI-powered world.

It is nice that the book was written by two different people and structured that way, every major point is talked from two perspectives, one author gives his optimist view, and the other a pessimist view, that comes really nice because you are getting a whole 360 view on a topic, both the pros and cons.

I do have to say that I did not really like Alvin's (in my opinion) too subjective opinions over China, and the lack of criticism towards, while not holding back any punches towards the USA, however I understand his reasoning.

What really opened my mind towards the future of metaverse is when the authors were discussing all the different ways AR/VR is helpful with education, from helping med students learn procedures to regular schooling and making it more interactive/interesting.

All in all, I have to say this was one of the better books I read in the last couple of years, and I would say the best read this year. Definitely recommended!
Profile Image for Jasmine.
139 reviews5 followers
May 5, 2024
A technical and thought-provoking read on the subject of artificial intelligence and how it affects society and the world at large. The book is broken down into 13 parts with both Alvin and Louis giving their perspective on a specific aspect of artificial intelligence products. I definitely think this is the kind of book that requires an elementary knowledge on the topic at hand (fortunately the case for me, as it's an area I got interested in exploring during my masters degree) so it was nice to learn more as well as new peer reviewed studies I wasn't familiar with thanks to this book. I definitely think it's a book I will have to revisit again to truly take in all that I have read.

Thank you Netgalley and Nicholas Brealey US for the ARC, it's really made me think further on a topic I thought I had a fairly good understanding of.
92 reviews3 followers
July 21, 2024
Data driven book
First of all, this book is thought provoking as the authors of this book presents an exploration of the potential impacts of AI powered immersive media on society. This book delves into both the promising and perilous possibilities of this AI revolution. This book is interesting to read and hence highly recommended from my side.
1 review3 followers
October 13, 2024
"Our Next Reality" is a captivating journey into how AI and the metaverse are set to transform our world in the coming years. Rosenberg and Graylin, drawing on their decades of expertise, engage in a compelling debate that not only enlightens but also challenges you to think critically about the immense potential and significant risks these technologies present for our society.

What truly sets this book apart from all the other books available on the subject is the excellent balance between Alvin Graylin's optimistic "blue ocean" approach and Louis Rosenberg's cautious perspective on the potential of the technology. Graylin paints an inspiring vision of AI-enabled abundance and human augmentation, envisioning a future filled with limitless possibilities. On the other hand, Rosenberg offers a grounded counterpoint, emphasizing the ethical challenges and societal disruptions we must carefully navigate. This dynamic interplay between optimism and caution kept me thoroughly engaged and provided a nuanced understanding of the complex issues at stake.

As someone involved in driving digital transformation for global enterprises, I found their insights on how AI and immersive computing will reshape business, work, and the economy incredibly valuable. Their exploration of AI-human collaboration, the future of jobs, and new models of value creation offered a compelling roadmap that I can relate to and apply in my own field.

I found the section on superintelligent AI particularly fascinating. The authors delve into speculations that might seem far-fetched to some, yet they opened my mind to possibilities I hadn't fully considered before. Their profound questions about human agency, consciousness, and the future of our species left a lasting impression on me and sparked countless conversations with colleagues and friends.

The book excels at making complex technical concepts accessible without oversimplifying them. Real-world examples and scenarios bring the possibilities to life, whether they're discussing AR/VR applications or the long-term implications of artificial general intelligence.

"Our Next Reality" is essential reading for anyone looking to understand and prepare for the technological revolution that will define the coming decades. I highly recommend it to business leaders, policymakers, and curious minds alike.
Profile Image for Chris Basoglu.
48 reviews
December 31, 2024
Working in AI at Microsoft, I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of technology with AI. The book "Our Next Reality: How the AI-powered Metaverse Will Reshape the World" by Alvin Graylin, my long-time friend and former lab mate from the University of Washington, is a compelling and visionary exploration of the future. The book captures the essence of how AI and the metaverse are poised to revolutionize our lives, both personally and professionally. Alvin's deep understanding of AI, combined with his engaging writing style, makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in the future of technology.

Alvin has insightful discussion on the convergence of AI and the metaverse. He skillfully explains complex concepts in an accessible manner, making it easy for readers to grasp the profound implications of these technologies. As someone deeply involved in AI, I found the analysis both accurate and inspiring. The book also includes a personal touch, with a brief mention of my work at Microsoft and a nostalgic photo of us in our lab during graduation, which added a special layer of connection for me.

Overall, "Our Next Reality" is a thought-provoking and enlightening read that offers a glimpse into the future of AI and the metaverse. Alvin's ability to blend technical expertise with a clear vision of the future makes this book stand out. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to understand the potential of these groundbreaking technologies. This book not only informs but also inspires, and I am proud to see my friend's work making such a significant impact.
1 review1 follower
November 29, 2024
This is a book to be savored and thoroughly explored—a treasure trove of insights richly endowed with positive intentionality, scientific and philosophical inquiry, and grounded perspectives. It balances cautionary considerations with exuberant, thoughtful optimism, offering a holistic view of the transformative times we are stepping into.

What are AI, AGI, and ASI? What is virtual reality, and will it serve us or exploit us? How will jobs, education, medicine, science, socialization, creativity, governance, and economic structures evolve in the coming era? Most importantly, how can we play an active role in steering these changes toward positive outcomes? Our Next Reality tackles these critical questions with depth and clarity.

The authors, both deeply experienced in their fields, approach these topics with a blend of technical expertise and broad philosophical insight. They invite readers to contemplate whether the future is something to fear, an era of unprecedented opportunity, or perhaps a mixture of both. Their balanced yet optimistic tone ensures the book is both engaging and thought-provoking.

I’m already nearing my second read-through and find myself recommending this book to everyone I know. These are extraordinary times—beyond our wildest imaginations—and Our Next Reality serves as an essential launchpad for approaching the future with curiosity, preparedness, and hope.
Profile Image for Emily.
41 reviews1 follower
July 21, 2024
"Our Next Reality" by Alvin Wang Graylin, Louis Rosenberg, and Neal Stephenson is a must-read for anyone curious about the future of technology. This book dives deep into the world of augmented and virtual reality, showing how these innovations could transform every aspect of our lives, from work and education to entertainment and social interaction. The authors, experts in their fields, provide fascinating insights and real-world examples, making complex ideas easy to understand and exciting to explore.

What makes this book truly captivating is its blend of visionary thinking and practical applications. You'll be transported into a future where the digital and physical worlds merge, offering endless possibilities and new experiences. "Our Next Reality" not only informs but also inspires, sparking your imagination and leaving you eager to see how these groundbreaking technologies will shape our world. Don't miss out on this enlightening and thought-provoking read!
17 reviews
July 22, 2024
"This book is a phenomenal summer read that will transport you to the forefront of the metaverse revolution! Written in an approachable and user-friendly style, this guide is perfect for anyone looking to reboot their understanding of this rapidly evolving field. The authors take on the thrilling convergence of generative AI and spatial computing, presenting a wealth of clearly explained metrics, fascinating tidbits, and compelling statistics that will empower readers to navigate the metaverse with confidence.


What truly sets this book apart is the authors' unparalleled expertise and visionary perspective. They're not just observers of the metaverse - they're actively shaping its future! With their credentials and forward-thinking approach, they offer a unique glimpse into the exciting possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead
Profile Image for Astha Garg.
26 reviews
August 2, 2024
AI- The Future

The AI based future is going to be full of power and creativity. Life is going to be transformed. While reading this book, I have had so many insights about our future. It gave me a new perspective honestly. There is no doubt that every-thing has its pros and cons, but let's just say reading this book has totally changed my perspective on AI . No doubt life will become easy but yes it will become more dangerous as well. People would be threatened by AI. People are going to misuse the power. There are both positive and negative sides to the story.
If you are someone who is a tech geek or is curious to know about AI, give this book a try! You are going to gain enormous knowledge on technology and AI built metaverse.
5 reviews
February 21, 2024
Our Next Reality is an inspiring/terrifying book about the convergence of artificial intelligence and spatial computing in our lives. It's structured as a debate in which Alvin Graylin presents the positive outcomes and Louis Rosenberg presents the risks to society. Both are experts in the field with over thirty years experience each in virtual reality, mixed reality and artificial intelligence. The Forward is written by science fiction author Neal Stephenson who coined the term Metaverse in 1992 in his best selling book Snow Crash. Our Next Reality is highly relevant now that Apple and Meta are both selling products that combine artificial intelligence and spatial computing.
11 reviews
July 18, 2024
“Our Next Reality”, by Alvin and Louis is an informed, rational and positive look at the future as controlled by artificial intelligence and alternate reality. This book explains in detail the positive and negative implications of the broad use of Metaverse technologies that are based on artificial intelligence. In this context, it is a must-read for anyone following AI and especially VR technologies. This paper by the two authors, each of whom has over thirty years of experience in the business world, provides a factual argument to counter whether the future will be a technologically filled paradise, or a hi-tech hell of AI.
56 reviews
August 5, 2024
Authors, Alvin and Louis, have done an amazing job explaining how Ai and immersive tech is our next way of life making it easier and how it will redefine our world. AI will blur the lines between real and virtual worlds and thus it’s very important to keep ourselves informed and educated about this kind of technologies.
AI and immersive technology has potential to help human world evolve for better as well as make it potentially dangerous and this book will help educate and make you gain valuable insight into the world of AI and its profound impact on the world. A must read to learn about this emerging technologies and their impact on the society.
34 reviews
August 6, 2024
The title "OUR NEXT REALITY" accurately reflects the content of the book, which is a collective life experience of its multiple writers. The book delves into the realms of Artificial Intelligence,Metaverse, and their potential impact on our future, exploring both the positive and negative consequences. It also examines how these technologies can influence people's thoughts and behaviors in a detailed manner.This book is highly recommended for professionals and students interested in Artificial Intelligence, as it offers comprehensive coverage of the subject. Readers can gain a wealth of knowledge from this book.
1 review1 follower
April 1, 2024
The dawn of a new era is upon us; an era where the boundaries between the real and the virtual blur, where artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive media are not just tools but integral parts of our daily lives. In “Our Next Reality,” authors Alvin Wang Graylin and Louis Rosenberg embark on a thought-provoking journey to explore the seismic shifts that the next wave of technological advancements could bring to our society, culture, and the very essence of being human.

see my whole review here
https://xrupdate.com/our-next-reality...
105 reviews3 followers
July 21, 2024
"Our Next Reality" by Alvin Wang Graylin and Louis Rosenberg is an insightful book about the future of AI and the metaverse. The authors explain how these technologies can change our world for better or worse. They provide real-life examples and data to show the potential benefits and risks. The book is well-written and easy to understand, making complex ideas accessible. It's a must-read for anyone interested in how AI will shape our future, offering practical advice on navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead.
32 reviews
July 23, 2024
This book is perfect for anyone curious about how technology impacts our lives. It breaks down complex AI and Metaverse concepts into easy-to-understand ideas, whether you're a techie or a newbie.

The real magic is in the storytelling. By using real-world examples, the authors show not just how technology works but how it might shape our future.

Also, Authors offer a balanced view of the opportunities and risks of an AI-driven world. They provide practical advice for businesses, individuals, and governments to handle these changes.
Profile Image for william.
51 reviews
August 5, 2024
"Our Next Reality" by Alvin and Louis is a thought-provoking book that explores the future of technology, specifically the metaverse where machines and computers collaborate. It discusses both the benefits and risks, such as fake money and online identities. The book examines how AI and immersive media might reshape society, emphasizing the importance of managing this technological revolution wisely to preserve our humanity. It's an eye-opener for anyone interested in what's next in technology, evoking feelings of excitement, curiosity, and caution.
19 reviews
August 5, 2024
Our next reality is a must read to understand AI and immersive technology as it focuses on the importance and effect of AI and immersive technology on the businesses, our culture and on every aspect of human life.

It’s necessary to have profound knowledge of driving this technology to benefit the society as its misuse has power to lead it astray and to destructive influence in our world.

Alvin and Louis have written this book with in-depth analysis and data baked findings that highlights its benefits as well as pitfalls to make it easier to understand for the reader.
32 reviews1 follower
July 21, 2024
First of all, it is possible to note that the authors have done a good job and provided the readers with rather balanced material. The authors discuss the risks and issues, which can be encountered such as privacy, autonomy, and humanity. At the same time, they also reveal the brilliant possibilities of building an enchanting, an ‘overflowing with’ world if these technologies are properly directed. The book does not only throw a lot of ideas without putting into practice; it is practical.
4 reviews
July 22, 2024
Finally, it can be stated that “Our Next Reality” is an influential, profound and, quite importantly, timely book. It is a caution and a compass which calls on us to strive for the best of all possible worlds and at the same time to be prepared for the worse. Irrespective of whether the reader is a technological devotee, a policy maker or a mere onlooker who is interested in what lies ahead, this book is a must read.
Profile Image for Sikandar Baksh.
49 reviews1 follower
July 24, 2024
This book explores how AI, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) will change our future. It explains how these technologies will affect communication, personal technology, and privacy. Even if you know a lot about tech, you'll learn something new. The book provides a clear and balanced view of the benefits and risks. It's a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the massive changes AI and XR will bring to our world.
Profile Image for Eric Salinas.
Author 1 book1 follower
March 14, 2024
Amazing book, thank you both, I bought it cause of the XR implications and your expertise but it turned out to be an amazing thinking out loud experience about AI in the upcoming years (taking spatial computing as a given).

I’ve already recommended it among my peers, thanks for this spoiler of the upcoming years
1 review5 followers
May 26, 2024
Great primer on the past, current and future of the Metaverse, from XR / Spatial Computing to Blockchain and Artificial General Intelligence. The book also provides a guide to building a positive future for humanity - Our Next Reality. Alvin also continues the discussion and the journey to AGI at https://ournextreality.com/
Profile Image for Daniel.
103 reviews3 followers
August 29, 2024
Easily one of the best books I've read on the future we're about to embark. Authors cover the pros and cons, deliver their thesis with important nuance, and are extremely thorough in the scope of issues they address. This is absolutely worth reading.
44 reviews
July 18, 2024
"Our Next Reality" is an easy read about AI and the metaverse. It's great for anyone curious about how tech will change our lives. Perfect for students and tech lovers who want to know what’s next.
Profile Image for Barna Szász.
8 reviews
April 4, 2024
This book is one of the best on XR (augmented & virtual reality) to have been published in recent years. Its uniqueness lies in addressing two topics that are usually treated separately: the world dominated by AI (Artificial Intelligence) and XR. This is highly relevant, as the remaining years of the decade will be significantly influenced by these two technologies working hand in hand.

The strength of the book also comes from the fact that its two authors have been involved with both technologies for decades, allowing for a much more credible and in-depth exploration than usual. Additionally, through their dialogue, readers naturally come to understand both optimistic and pessimistic interpretations within context.

Alvin comes across as almost as the typical Silicon Valley techno-optimist character – but with a twist due to his Chinese heritage, which gives him a more realistic view of the pitfalls of both dictatorships and capitalism. Louis brings an incredible amount of humanity, knowledge, responsibility, and constructiveness, suggesting important steps for individuals and regulators alike. As is often the case with such topics, you will find yourself excited by the possibilities and simultaneously chilled by the potential dystopian outcomes. However, if anything, this book can significantly aid in choosing a positive direction.
Profile Image for Lahari.
58 reviews2 followers
July 23, 2024
Alvin and his co-author share their view on the intricate web of AI, XR and the metaverse. They have a rare authenticity and one of the book's strengths is its balanced view of the metaverse's potential. Alvin does not shy away from discussing the ethical dilemmas, privacy concerns, and societal shifts and asks you to consider the implications of these technologies as its as much about human values as it is about technological innovation. so enjoyed reading  what we should be concerned about. In my opinion this is a must read for everyone who wants to understand on what levels AI combined with spatial computing will affect and change our future. It should also be a must read for policy makers that want to understand how they could regulate this technology in a meaningful way without stifling technological progress. A fantastic summer read, this recent user-friendly hitchhiker’s guide to the metaverse will update you with all the new features so that you can reboot future-proof, tidbits and statistics to help guide readers through the rapid acceleration and evolution of the AI-powered metaverse. Filled to the brim with credentials and also forward thinking vision, the authors aren’t just describing the future- they are the ones making it! A must read.
2 reviews
May 22, 2024
I have been experiencing and witnessing great anxiety among leaders and talents in organizations anxiously and excitedly struggling to future out the impact of AI and the metaverse on leadership, culture, and talent development.

There can be so many potential future pathways with such powerful technologies. This book gives you a holistic perspective (optimistic potentials + cautious risks) across time (now and far into the future) showing potentials of new type of organizational and societal structures. The concept of "abundanism" is so intriguing.

Reading this book, I feel as if I was having a peek into the future and thinking about its potential impact on humanity through the framework and research data included.

Now, the anxiety is gone and I was left with pure insights and excitement.



1 review2 followers
May 3, 2024
This book is a very good roadmap that puts all the important puzzles of the past and present about AI and Metaverse, allowing non-techie to build a solid understanding of these 2 important and interrelated topics quickly. The authors then visualize different scenarios (utopian and dystopian) which could happen. And not just policy makers or big tech but ordinary people like us might make a difference in steering towards the utopian future by gaining awareness of what are the driving force behind.
Profile Image for Maria.
208 reviews
July 21, 2024
As in the last few decades we have seen so many technological advancements, it’s not far fetched that AI will become a normal part of our lives in the coming years. It mostly blur the line between what is real and what is virtual. The authors of this book has over 3 decades of experience and has a balanced approach with data driven analysis. They mention how these advancements could lead to either an utopian age or a dystopian future. The risk of compromised privacy will increase is one of the major concerns. I highly recommend this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.