What is the Metaverse? Let me first begin by saying that I’m no expert in this area, however, I’m finding that no one really is, at least not yet. 🙂 Some people make mention that the term Metaverse was first mentioned in Neal Stephenson’s 1992 novel Snow Crash. Yeah, that was around 30 years ago! So, you know I had to get this book. Maybe not exactly, I purchased the audible version and have to say that it kept my interest. If you like fiction and are just curious about the origins of this Metaverse term, I recommend it.
I’ve heard and read so many variations of how people describe the Metaverse and it is wide open. Some describe it as a virtual-reality space where users interact within a computer-generated environment. I’ve heard it explained as a decentralized digital space beyond the real world. In this YouTube video from CNET, one description they give the Metaverse is online spaces where people socialize, work, and play with avatars. It was also described as the next version of the future of computing. In simple terms, I would describe it as a decentralized virtual world that uses fictional characters for interactions.
No one really knows where and how this Metaverse will take shape in the future, however, some major companies are banking on it. For example, Facebook changed its name to Meta. You’ve probably heard of some of the virtual reality headsets that are out there like, Meta Quest 2, Sony Playstation VR, and Vive Pro 2 just to name a few. These devices can be used to access the virtual world, although they are not needed. Other companies like Microsoft and Alphabet (Google) are other big players in this Metaverse space. Then you have companies in the gaming industry like, Roblox and Activision Blizzard who are at the forefront of the Metaverse. I even tried exploring in the Roblox virtual world and truthfully, I just can’t imagine spending too much time in there.
So, if the Metaverse will indeed be a decentralized world, then what stops criminals from taking advantage of minors. This is one of my biggest questions, especially since these are virtual spaces full of avatars. The Metaverse definitely seems to be picking up steam, however it will be interesting to see who will actually control this Metaverse. I’m in the learning phase of this Metaverse, so stay tuned for other updates as I learn more.