Surely, you are already familiar with the term “ metaverse ”. This concept has been much talked about since Mark Zuckerberg (creator of Facebook) announced his new technological project a few months ago . However, it is still in the construction phase and still generates many doubts and questions.
The commitment to the development of this new virtual universe is firm, we only have to think that Zuckerberg himself decided to change the name of Facebook to Meta. But what does it consist of?
We can define it as a parallel universe, which is beyond our own. The term is not new, it appears in the book Snow Crash, by Neal Stephenson , which was published in 1992 and which was adapted into a feature film for the big screen.
To better understand it, we can define it as a virtual ecosystem, where users can interact with each other in a three-dimensional (3D) way . In the metaverse, the actions that can be carried out are bitcoin data similar to those we carry out in our real life, such as working and shopping. This is precisely what differentiates it from other virtual realities or current video games.
What can be done in this new virtual universe?
The level of interaction on the Internet is high, but with this new virtual universe the limits of screens (mobile, computer, television, etc.) are fading away. Using devices such as virtual reality glasses, we will be able to access an immersive experience . We may have sensors that are capable of recording our movements so that our avatar does exactly the same thing as us. There is also talk that the devices we use could interpret our gestures, transferring body language to virtual interactions.
How does the metaverse work?
In the metaverse we will feel like we are inside, part of the universe itself. We will be able to move through an avatar that represents us and that can interact, touch things, move objects. In other words, users will be able to influence the environment in different ways:
This is one of its strong points. Zuckerberg presented his idea by showing a space where you can work in the same way as a physical office. His idea is that it will have all kinds of tools for meetings, presentations, etc.
Playing video games in an immersive way.
Enjoying activities such as concerts or exhibitions . Living these experiences as if we were there, without leaving our living room.
Interacting with brands and making purchases , both physically and virtually. We can consult with shop assistants, ask for their opinion or try on clothes on our avatar. Actions that will facilitate and improve the experience of making online purchases.
Socializing in group experiences . Interacting with other users just like we do in real life.
What are the current metaverses?
When we talk about the metaverse, we are not referring to a specific platform or brand. The concept refers to a virtual space under construction . At the moment, it is an idea and Zuckerberg is not its owner. In fact, other companies such as Microsoft, Apple or Google are working on tools or applications to use within this innovative universe.
In any case, the proposal from Meta (formerly Facebook) is the most developed so far. They have even launched several initiatives such as Facebook Horizon , a video game to create avatars and interact with the environment using virtual reality glasses.
For its part, the video game company Epic Games, creator of Fortnite and Roblox, announced last year an investment of nearly one billion dollars to build a metaverse in collaboration with other companies such as Sony Group Corporation. This is logical, since it has a lot of experience in virtual worlds and organizes important events on its platform.