VisitMalta.com launched an industry-first virtual citizen program that combines the infinite possibilities of Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence and the Metaverse. Their first citizen is named Marija and represents a typical Maltese woman who has all the answers to visitors’ questions about the island’s history and locations.
As reported by BSN, Marija will be capable of interacting with tourists much like a human would – and in real time. She can answer any question concerning Maltese history, offer directions, and even throw in a joke or two when the situation is appropriate.
Behind the Virtual Citizen Program
Innovation, technology, and design have been identified as key influencers that can help promote both Malta and the Expo 2020 event itself to a global audience. In line with that strategy, Marija was designed to guide tourists throughout their visit to Malta in a chatty, friendly, and helpful manner, with answers about Maltese history, notable people, events, or specific locations.
Marija was developed in close collaboration with Reimagine.ai. The main goal was to recreate the key phrases of the Maltese language as well as mannerisms associated with a typical conversation between locals. Combined with giving Marija the characteristic appearance of a Maltese woman, with family ties dating back to the time of the Knights of St John and the British Colonial rule, she will provide an authentic interactive experience.
“VisitMalta is looking at this project as another opportunity through which the Maltese touristic product is being developed, by becoming more relevant to the 21st century. In a nutshell, Marija will become an experience which is guaranteed to bring together art and artificial intelligence to provide a holistic and exciting human experience,” Mr. Johann Buttigieg, CEO of VisitMalta, stated.
About the Maltese Islands
Malta is a small island nation with plenty of sunshine and natural beauty. Boasting golden sandy beaches, blue skies, and clear waters, Malta is the ideal holiday destination. Malta’s government keeps its island nation at the cutting edge of technology and is recognized as a world leader in crypto, blockchain, and casino regulation.
About Reimagine.ai
Reimagine.ai is a software company committed to revolutionizing the way people interact with machines and each other through the use of Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, and Internet of things technology.