Augmenting user experience in the AI-transitioned metaverse: The role of knowledge management in socio-economic inclusion

Driven by rapid technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence (AI), and the emergence of new platforms like the metaverse, coupled with traditional systems of knowledge management (KM), the importance of user experience (UX) has gained increasing attention for inclusive and collaborative socio-economic development. However, the existing research remains fragmented, often examining the UX, AI, or KM in isolation without providing an integrated framework for understanding their interplay within the metaverse environment. Furthermore, a lack of synthesis is evident in the way knowledge-driven systems contribute to inclusive and adaptive virtual experiences. To address this gap, as the first part, this study employs a systematic review method to integrate and synthesise existing research on metaverse and user experience, resulting in the identification of five core themes: Metaverse as a New Transformational Technology and UX, Metaverse Interactivity and UX, Metaverse Immersiveness and UX, Integrative Flow in Metaverse and UX and Metaverse Environment Interface and UX. Extending the thematic classification, the study proposes a conceptual model that highlights how AI-transitioned environments, when supported by KM practices, can lead to inclusive, intelligent, and adaptive user experiences (UX). The findings advance the understanding of UX in the metaverse, backed by AI transitions and KM nuances, offering valuable insights for future research and organisational practices in designing inclusive and sustainable metaverse engagement.