Introducing the Meta-Layer Infrastructure SIG

🌍 What Is the Meta-Layer?

Where do annotations live? Where do tooltips appear? The Meta-Layer is this hidden space above the webpage—used today for popups and extensions, but rarely for civic purpose. We see it as the Internet’s missing trust layer: a place for visible values, contextual intelligence, and community tools that protect integrity online.

You’ve already seen it in action:

• Hypothesis 🖊️ (for social annotation)

• Honey 🛒 (for discount code overlays)

• Ad blockers, password managers, AI sidebars

These are early glimpses of what a meta-layer can be—a shared space above the web where people can think, meet, and build together.

The Overlooked Layer Above the Webpage

A Strategic Move for the Internet Society

This SIG positions ISOC as the first global institution to steward interface-level digital agency. It builds on ISOC’s mission to support an open, trusted Internet—and expands it to include interface-level transparency, AI safety, and meaningful participation. This group will bridge emerging layers of technology with enduring values of trust and access.

We are now in an activation cycle.

The Meta-Layer Infra SIG will:

• Host live events and working groups

• Publish a Meta-Layer Use Case Fieldbook

• Develop governance models for overlays, presence, and trust signals

• Connect with other SIGs around interface-level AI safety

• Serve as the coordination node for the ongoing Meta-Layer Initiative

Building the Meta-Layer Together

Join the Founding Team

We are assembling 25+ founding members. Key roles include:

• Stewards for each Desirable Property of the Meta-Layer

• A SIG Secretary for governance and transparency

• Three Board Members

• Active contributors and cross-SIG collaborators

All roles require ISOC membership (free and global). This is your chance to help architect the browser-based future of digital trust.

Be among the first 25 pioneers shaping the next evolution of the internet. As a Founding Wave supporter, you’ll receive this exclusive digital badge, a symbol of your early commitment to building a decentralized, interoperable and future ready digital ecosystem.

Founding Wave Badge

Ready to Join?

We're running a short, high-impact campaign (Sep–Dec 2025). Fill out the onboarding form to:

• Join our WhatsApp community

• Get early access to workshops and sprints

• Help launch the Meta-Layer SIG and Fieldbook

Help Launch the Internet’s Missing Layer