Introduction to Virtual and Augmented Reality Legal Issues
Virtual- and augmented-reality technologies are advancing rapidly, however the law is struggling to maintain up. As a result, a plethora of legal questions and concerns are emerging that might potentially hinder the event and use of those technologies. Robyn Chatwood, a lawyer on the international law firm Dentons, is certainly one of the primary to explore these questions and make clear the critical issues that engineers and developers need to concentrate on.
Intellectual Property Rights in Virtual and Augmented Reality
One of essentially the most significant legal issues surrounding virtual and augmented reality is mental property (IP) rights. Chatwood breaks down IP rights into two categories: real-world IP rights within the virtual world and virtual IP rights in the true world. For instance, an organization like McDonald’s has trademarks on its brand in the true world, but what happens if someone depicts a McDonald’s burger or restaurant in a virtual world? Does the trademark registration extend to the virtual world as well?
Additionally, there’s the problem of virtual IP rights in the true world. For example, if an app is designed to geotag a constructing and supply details about it when viewed through a smartphone, who owns the rights to that information? Currently, there aren’t any effective laws that dictate who owns such rights, leaving a gray area that should be addressed.
Ownership of Virtual Designs and Creations
Another area of concern is the ownership of designs and creations made virtually. If a user designs and builds something incredible in a virtual world, who owns the rights to that design? This is often outlined within the terms and conditions that users conform to, however it becomes more complicated with virtual reality content. Engineers and developers need to think about what users might do with this technology and make sure that the terms and conditions clearly state who owns what.
Dangers to Users and Liability
Virtual and augmented reality technologies may also pose dangers to users. For instance, a girl playing a multiplayer virtual reality game experienced a virtual sexual assault, which felt just as real and violating as a physical assault. However, there are currently no laws that recognize virtual sexual assault as reminiscent of real-world assault.
Developers must take into consideration potential risks and consider embedding features that mitigate or eliminate them. This could include functions that allow users to dam others or create secure spaces. Moreover, problems with privacy and security are also crucial, as the gathering and sharing of user data can have serious consequences.
Privacy and Security Concerns
The collection and use of user data in virtual and augmented reality raise significant privacy and security concerns. What data is being collected, and is it available to others? Could the placement of users be shared with others, potentially putting them in danger? Developers must consider these questions and take steps to guard users’ privacy and security.
When Will These Issues Be Resolved?
According to Chatwood, it might take an incident that pulls widespread attention or the widespread adoption of virtual and augmented reality technologies for these legal issues to be sorted out. She predicts that inside 5 to 10 years, there can be a greater recognition of the necessity for regulations and laws to handle these concerns.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the event and use of virtual and augmented reality technologies are giving rise to a variety of complex legal issues. From mental property rights to dangers to users and privacy concerns, these issues have to be addressed to make sure the secure and responsible development of those technologies. As using virtual and augmented reality becomes more widespread, it is crucial for engineers, developers, and lawmakers to work together to create a framework that protects users and promotes innovation.
