SK Telecom has announced the closure of its metaverse platform, ifland, with services ceasing on 31 March 2025. The decision, shy of ifland’s fourth anniversary, signals a bold pivot to artificial intelligence (AI) as the company’s core focus.
In a statement, an SK Telecom representative remarked, “We will further accelerate the transition to a global AI company by utilizing the accumulated metaverse capabilities to strengthen AI competitiveness.”
ifland, launched in July 2021, was developed as a hub for virtual interactions, complete with customizable avatars and immersive meeting spaces. Despite early optimism and notable partnerships, user adoption and scalability led to its sunset.
Ensuring a Smooth Transition for Users
SK Telecom has promised a seamless wind-down process for ifland. Users can request refunds for purchased virtual items such as stones and avatar customizations via a dedicated application portal, which will be detailed in future updates.
Additionally, the company offers tools to help users back up photos and videos shared within the platform. These measures aim to prioritize user satisfaction and maintain trust during the transition.
Lessons Learned to Shape the AI Future
The expertise gained from ifland, including its 3D immersive content production and global service deployments, will not be discarded. Instead, to support SK Telecom’s AI-driven offerings, positioning the company as a formidable player in a field dominated by tech giants like OpenAI and Google.
The Waning Metaverse Trend
SK Telecom’s move reflects a broader industry retreat from the metaverse. In South Korea, KT and LG U+ have scaled back or delayed metaverse projects. Globally, companies like Alibaba and Meta have also struggled to meet early expectations.
As enthusiasm for the metaverse cools, AI emerges as the preferred frontier for innovation. With its emphasis on practical applications and industry-wide impact, AI offers tech companies the opportunity to address evolving market demands and secure long-term growth.
For SK Telecom, the closure of ifland is more than a response to market trends, it’s a declaration of intent to lead in the AI revolution. By utilizing its metaverse experience, the company aims to build, more innovative solutions for the future.
Let us know your thoughts on this shift in strategy. Is SK Telecom’s pivot to AI a visionary move?
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