PdXR - the Evolution of Pure Data into the Metavers

The Pure Data (Pd) visual programming language is among the most widely used real-time audio environments in computer music. Due to its open-source nature, Pd has undergone all sorts of transformations. As an embedded audio library (libpd), Pd has found its way into many programming languages, mobile apps, digital audio workstations, and other applications. Projects like WebPD, empd, Purr Data, and PdWebParty focus on bringing Pd to the web. The metaverse, as a network of immersive multiuser virtual environments, promises to become the next iteration of the Internet. With the ”PdXR” project presented in this paper, Pure Data patches can be used not only in virtual, augmented and extended realities (XR), but also with others in shared web-based metaverse environments. In this way, solo and networked music performances with virtual instruments or interactive algorithms can be played in front of an online audience, virtual interactive installations can be realized, or procedural soundscapes for virtual worlds can be created. We describe the implementation, possibilities and limitations of PdXR, as well as its potential in combination with metaverse environments.