Copyright Issues and Implications of Emerging Virtual Reality Technologies

Abstract

Virtual reality ("VR") technologies allow users to experience three-dimensional, multi-sensory environments ("virtual worlds"). This new and rapidly-developing technological platform is promising, but does not come without legal challenges. Issues regarding copyrights for virtual worlds and creations within those worlds can be expected. This article involves an exploration into potential application of copyright law to virtual reality technologies, focusing on what might be protected by copyright, potential infringement challenges, and how enforcement of these copyrights might play out for both users and developers.