Ahead of its presentation at internet dating conference iDate 2008, Omnidate predicted that online dating sites that include virtual worlds will keep them competitive against social networks.

Omnidate's own "plug and play application" integrates with online dating sites, allowing users to select from a group of premade avatars and meet with others in different date settings -- such as lounges, restaurants, or resorts -- to chat, play games, and listen to music.

The company claims that adding its application to dating sites could potentially result in increased traffic and revenue, as well as higher conversion rates and increased retention.

Omnidate CEO Dr. Igor Kotlyar and co-founder Ravit Ableman will present their session, "Virtual Reality: New Opportunities for Online Dating in Europe," at the event on September 22nd. iDate 2008 will run from September 22nd to the 23rd at the Millennium Gloucester Hotel in London.

Said Abelman: "... virtual reality creates opportunities for online dating sites that will keep them competitive with social networking sites. The gaps in service that allowed social networking sites to compete for the online dating market can be addressed by adding virtual reality to personal dating sites."