What is The Metaverse?

Good question, and one that doesn't have a single definitive answer.

Depending on who you speak to you will get different responses. This is an evolution, and there are many different visions and perspectives out there.

Whatever the perspective, it is true to say that we are currently defining the future of how technology interleaves with our lives in the future.

So this is important, and our decisions must be made carefully and with good intentions.

All that I can do is give my personal definition of what The Metaverse is. 

So here goes...

Consider our experience in three dimensions of existence:

- The physical world
- The augmented physical world
- The virtual world

All three of these are, and should be, part of "The Metaverse".

This contradicts the Zuckerberg vision of "The Metaverse", which concentrates on "The virtual world", excluding the "The physical world", missing a very important point. We don't live in the virtual world all the time (shrugs).

To design this properly, we must see The Metaverse as a way to seamlessly join these three dimensions of existence, so that we live in the physical and digital worlds seamlessly, simultaneously and optionally.

So why did I include the physical world? 

Because we need it, FFS!

If you've ever stared at a fire or gazed out to sea, you'll understand the importance of connection with nature and the physical world. The idea that we will all be living in a world where we can never get away from tech is, frankly, pretty horrible. Afterall, we are animals born of this earth, and it's only very recently that we've developed technology. Evolution just doesn't move that fast.

So, if we are to create a sustainable next generation of technology, we must respect that it cannot try to replace the physical world.

In the vision I outline here, we can enjoy our wonderful physical world, but with the option to augment it to provide information, connection and utility. We can then step into "The virtual world" for more immersive activities as required.

So who owns it, and how is it structured?

This is another aspect where I differ from the Zuckerberg vision because I really don't think it would be healthy for one large company to "own" The Metaverse.

Rather, it will evolve much as The Internet has evolved, as numerous microverses that exist, much like websites exist, in their own right, with their own brand and functionality. Just like The Internet, standardised open protocols will enable us to move between these microverses seamlessly, taking our avatar and personal settings with us, owned by us and stored on block-chains.

Fundamental principles

Humans are cooperative, social beings. We thrive and are at our happiest when we connect with other people.

Sure, there are numerous important considerations when designing The Metaverse, but this is the big one.

If we can enhance human connection and bring people together, then we will improve humanity itself.

No pressure!