A Survey on Hybrid HumanArtificial Intelligence in the Metaverse

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Jing Zhang, Sha Li, Hongmei Wang, Wenxi Wang, Liming Chen, Yueliang Wan, Huansheng Ning

Published: 2025, Last Modified: 09 Jan 2026IEEE Trans. Hum. Mach. Syst. 2025EveryoneRevisionsBibTeXCC BY-SA 4.0
Abstract: Hybrid human–artificial intelligence (H-AI) in the metaverse is facing a growing trend in theoretical research and practical applications. Based on 101 academic papers published from 1996–2024, this article identifies research themes using thematic analysis, technological analysis, comparative analysis, and knowledge integration. The results show that academic interest and attention to H-AI have gradually increased since 2020. Through the results of thematic analysis, this article synthesizes five applications of H-AI domains: industry field, medical field, entertainment field, transportation field, and other fields. By analyzing the impact of H-AI on the integration of the virtual and real world, the role of H-AI in both the virtual and real worlds and the improvements over artificial intelligence will be outlined. This article also identifies challenges and responses that need further attention: disputes over responsibility ownership, bubble issues, lack of trust, and high-cost issues. This article looks ahead to add new skills to the metaverse platform, drive the metaverse as the next wave of the digital economy, promote the new field of metaverse combined with traditional, increase metaverse assistance to people with disabilities, and promote the systematization of the metaverse. This article helps enhance researchers' and practitioners' understanding of H-AI in the metaverse while raising awareness about the current research frontiers and potential future directions.