This paper aims to investigate how the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and the metaverse is reshaping value-creation models and transforming the governance of digital ecosystems. It explores new paradigms of value co-creation enabled by AI-driven knowledge management and immersive environments, identifies the contextual conditions and socio-economic implications that shape inclusion and advances an actionable governance framework for equitable value sharing.
This study adopts a conceptual–analytical and theory-building approach based on a systematic synthesis of 151 peer-reviewed sources. Guided by abductive reasoning, the analysis led to the ECO-NEXUS meta-framework through iterative conceptual decomposition and recomposition. Rigor was ensured via inclusion criteria, audit-trail documentation, triangulation and sensitivity checks, providing a replicable foundation for future empirical research.
The analysis shows that flows in platform ecosystems shift from linear to multidirectional patterns with role hybridity (prosumer, prolier, conplier); that inclusion emerges when human–AI knowledge co-creation is paired with relational systems and right-preserving safeguards; and that, absent these, market concentration and surveillance risks tilt value governance levers to inclusion and identifies boundary conditions that amplify or dampen these effects.
This study advances theory through the ECO-NEXUS governance architecture and informs practice by translating its mechanisms into actionable choices for equitable value sharing in AI- and metaverse-enabled ecosystems. The framework offers normative guidance and a clear agenda for empirical validation.
