The metaverse is a collective, persistent virtual space blending physical and digital realities, accessed via immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality, where users interact as avatars in shared 3D worlds.
Origin
The term "metaverse" originated in Neal Stephenson's 1992 novel Snow Crash , depicting a VR-based successor to the internet as a single, immersive 3D universe.
Key Features
- Persistent and synchronous 3D virtual worlds supporting unlimited users with continuity of identity, assets, and interactions.
- Powered by Web3 technologies like blockchain for decentralized control, AI for personalization, and haptics for lifelike experiences.
- Enables seamless activities such as socializing, working, gaming, shopping, and collaboration across interconnected platforms.
Technologies Involved
Core enablers include VR/AR hardware, cloud computing, spatial computing, and cryptocurrencies for in-world economies. Platforms facilitate content creation, discovery, and interoperability between experiences.
