A metaverse-ready virtual conference environment with LLM-based recommendations for contents and networking opportunities

The rise of Metaverse as a persistent, immersive digital ecosystem is transforming the ways in which users collaborate and interact within shared Virtual Environments (VEs). Among the most promising applications in this context there is the development of virtual conferencing environments that facilitate remote participation in meetings, presentations, and networking events. These platforms offer significant advantages, including the reduction of travel-related environmental impact, decreased organizational costs, and improved accessibility for international audiences. Nevertheless, research and development in the area of virtual conference systems remain limited, with few solutions incorporating personalized, user-centered support mechanisms aimed at improving experience and engagement. This study presents the design of a Metaverse-ready virtual conferencing system that enables multiple remote participants to convene in a shared 3D space. The platform is augmented by a novel LLM-based recommender system that analyzes user profiles and interaction data to suggest relevant content, such as presentations or shared media, and to identify potential networking opportunities with other attendees. Through the integration of personalization into the conference experience, the system seeks to increase user engagement, improve the relevance of presented material, and facilitate more meaningful social interactions.