what’s all the hype surrounding the metaverse?
Currently, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are just limited to video games, but big tech giants like Meta are trying to merge it with real life through an online 3D world called the metaverse. Soon you will be able to do everything virtually from the comfort of your couch.
For instance, you’ll be able to shop online in virtual malls for physical and digital products. The social gathering of Facebook groups will operate like office workrooms. But you will need a VR headset like the Oculus Quest 2 to access the virtual world. Starting price for this headache-prone hardware is $300
You’re probably wondering, who owns the metaverse and why should I care? Well if Zuckerburg’s vision for the internet is reshaping virtual reality, everyone will undoubtedly be impacted by it.
metaverse explained
Since the rise and global adoption of the internet, people have always been seeking a faster means of communication. First we had email, instant messenger, and then social media. Now we are moving towards the metaverse.
You have the freedom to become anything inside the Metaverse. Roam worlds and interact with people across the globe with a 3D virtual avatar. Think Sims but you’re in it. Your customized avatar can be a celebrity or superhero look alike. Why not a blue alien with a flaming mohawk while you’re at it?
That’s not it. You can also create your own virtual world. Reign as the king or queen of your exclusive world and invite people of your choice there. Of course, the metaverse is founded on inclusivity, so make it public for anyone to visit. Build a roller coaster theme park, private island, or even an NFT museum.
So, can we compare the metaverse to the multiverse? Nah, they’re two different things. For example, in the Marvel cinematic multiverse, there are hypothetically an infinite number of universes with different worlds. This is 180 degrees opposite from the concept of the metaverse. With the incredibly high number of worlds that can be created by companies and individuals, one may argue that there can be multiple metaverses though.
Real estate is also stepping into the virtual world. You can purchase and sell plots of land. It is similar to NFTs as you will need digital currency to buy metaverse land. Crypto is going to be the digital economy, paving the way for Meta to launch its digital currency for the virtual world within the metaverse.
However, you need a VR headset if you want to access the metaverse. Cost, motion sickness, a high learning curve, and isolation from the real world are some of the major barriers to mass consumption of AR and VR technology. If none of these things are a concern to you, then the virtual world is your oyster.
what is zuckerberg planning for the metaverse?
The aim of Facebook Meta is still the same. They are trying to connect people. But what are they going to do in the Metaverse?
In Meta’s Metaverse (say that 5 times fast), you have your home, also known as your Horizon Home. There you can chat and connect with your loved ones, host a party, or enjoy some of your favorite shows.
Probably the most appealing plan of Zuckerburg’s metaverse is Project Cambria. This project allows your 3D avatar to mimic your facial expressions. It means you will no longer need emojis to let your friends know how you’re feeling. Your metaverse avatar will do that for you. Goodbye, tears of joy emoji ?
But that’s just the start of innovation. They are also planning to enhance augmented reality , which will merge the real and the virtual world. Mark Zuckerberg is calling it the Nazare.
who owns the metaverse?
Well, if you think that Zuckerberg is the owner of metaverse, you’d be mistaken. Metaverse is a broad term, and Meta is just the company.
Many tech giants and Fortune 500 companies have already started investing in the metaverse. Google, Microsoft, Nike, Epic Games, Robolox, Tencent, and Tinder just to name a few. Even though competition will expand to new virtual heights, in the metaverse, companies can still work together. For instance, inside Meta’s virtual world, you will be able to access Netflix.
the metaverse isn’t for everyone
According to the father of PlayStation, Ken Kutaragi, the metaverse isn’t a good thing. He believes that connection with the natural world is essential. He goes on to say that inside the virtual world, we create quasi-real experiences. He also thinks that VR products are annoying and compares going into the metaverse to isolating.
Callum Hood, the head of research at the Center for Countering Digital Hate, recorded over 100 unsafe VRChat game sessions, which involved sexual and violent harrassment asults even to minors. He reported the incidents to the gaming company and Meta, who owns Oculus VR headsets, but neither have responded. Although many can agree on the voyage to the metaverse, there is still plenty of work to be done with community guidelines and policies.
So, is it a good idea to join Zuckerburg’s bandwagon? Well, it depends. You can certainly enjoy the best of both worlds (see what we did there). It also creates an Omnichannel marketing opportunity for brands everywhere. Whether you’re an early adopter or laggard, our advice will be the same: invest at your own risk.
preparing for a whole new (virtual) world
There is no doubt that virtual reality is the future of the internet. In the next 5-10 years, we will be wearing VR headsets to connect on social media, attend office meetings, splurge on clothing in virtual malls, make passive income, or even find love. If more companies get on board, the metaverse will only come sooner.
Tanner Rahl is the Lead Creative Marketing Specialist at Good Aura. Outside of helping businesses radiate excellence, he’s a fanatic when it comes to sports betting and reviewing the latest video games. Along with being the host of The 412 Podcast and owner of Rahl Reviews, he’s the proud dog parent of Kato the husky.