Book excerpt: The Metaverse and Smart Cities: Urban Environments in the Age of Digital Connectivity explores the intersection between the rapidly growing metaverse and the future of cities. The metaverse is a virtual world that is increasingly gaining attention as a new frontier for human interaction and commerce. At the same time, cities are undergoing significant transformation as they face challenges such as population growth, urbanization, and environmental degradation. Urban planners and city administrators will find valuable insights on how the metaverse can be integrated into the planning and development of smart, sustainable and future cities. The book begins with an introduction to the concepts and technology of the metaverse as well as its history. It then sheds light on the current and future challenges and opportunities that the metaverse presents to cities and the quality of life of urban dwellers. It delves into the ways in which the metaverse can change cities, both in terms of their physical and virtual environments, and the impact it can have on the lives of those who live in them. It brings together the latest research and perspectives from experts in the fields of virtual reality, urban planning, and sustainability, to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date picture of this rapidly evolving field. The insights and recommendations presented in the book will be valuable to policymakers, urban planners, and technology professionals interested in shaping the future of cities and the quality of life of those who live in them. Urban dwellers will gain an understanding of the potential impact of the metaverse on their quality of life, and technology enthusiasts and real estate developers will gain insights into the potential opportunities and challenges of investing in the metaverse and its connection to cities. - Provides a comprehensive and in-depth examination of the relationship between the metaverse and cities, recognizing the role that virtual environments will play in shaping the future of urban life - Presents practical examples and case studies to demonstrate the possibilities and challenges of the metaverse in cities - Includes the historical foundations necessary for understanding the current challenges and potential future trajectories of the technology