Top News About Metaverses

Horizon Worlds Sees Surge in Young Users
Meta’s Horizon Worlds has experienced a notable increase in its younger demographic. Following adjustments to age restrictions, children under 13 now constitute a significant portion of the platform’s user base. This shift raises discussions about safety protocols and content moderation to ensure a secure environment for all users.
Source: WIRED 

Comparative Analysis of Virtual Worlds Using the Metaverse Maturity Model
A recent study applied the Metaverse Maturity Model to evaluate platforms such as Second Life, Roblox, VRChat, Decentraland, Horizon Worlds, and The Sandbox. The findings indicate that while technical infrastructures are still evolving, attributes like persistence and economic systems show higher maturity levels, reflecting strategic alignment within these platforms.
Source: ITU

Second Life’s Ongoing Relevance in the Metaverse Landscape
Discussions within the Second Life community highlight its enduring appeal, particularly regarding its graphical quality and open simulation interactions, such as those in Blake Sea. Users continue to value the unique experiences offered by Second Life, distinguishing it from other metaverse platforms.
Source: SECOND LIFE COMMUNITY 

Insights from Established Platforms Informing the Metaverse’s Future
Industry experts suggest that existing platforms like Second Life and Roblox offer valuable lessons for the evolving metaverse. Key takeaways include the importance of fostering collaborative experiences and developing robust online economies, which are crucial for the sustainability and growth of virtual worlds.
Source: MIT Sloan

The Sandbox and Zepeto Forge Strategic Partnership
The Sandbox has entered into a strategic partnership with Zepeto, Asia’s largest virtual platform, to enhance interoperability within the metaverse. This collaboration allows users to access a series of NFTs usable in both virtual environments, including game items, equipment, and wearables. The initiative aims to provide users with unique experiences across both platforms, showcasing the potential of an open, decentralized metaverse.
Source: NFT Plazas 

Industrial Metaverse Applications Exceed Expectations
A study by Nokia and EY reveals that industrial and enterprise applications of the metaverse are surpassing expectations. Companies utilizing the metaverse for such purposes are experiencing significant cost reductions, with up to 15 percentage points in capital expenditure and six percentage points in operational expenditure.
Source: World Economic Forum 

What is a Metaverse?

The metaverse is a digital universe where users can interact, create, and explore. From gaming and social experiences to business and education, metaverses offer infinite possibilities. But not all metaverses are the same — some focus on creativity, while others focus on play-to-earn economies. Here, you’ll explore the most popular metaverse platforms and discover which one is right for you.

LEARN MORE

Guide to Metaverses

Learn the basics of virtual worlds and how to navigate the metaverse effectively.
LEARN

Earn Money in Virtual Worlds

Explore ways to make money through virtual assets, services, and opportunities in the metaverse.
EARN

Create & Build in Virtual Worlds

Learn how to design, develop, and innovate within virtual environments to bring your creative visions to life.
EXPLORE

Metaverse for Business

Find out how businesses can use the metaverse for growth, collaboration, and new opportunities.
LEARN

Top Metaverses

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Decentraland

Create, explore, and trade in a blockchain-based virtual world.
EXPLORE
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VRChat

Connect and socialize in virtual reality with 3D avatars and spaces.
EXPLORE

The Sandbox

Build, play, and monetize interactive experiences in virtual lands.
EXPLORE
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Horizon Worlds

Explore and create immersive VR experiences in Meta's social platform.
EXPLORE
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Second Life

Immerse in a social online world full of creativity and virtual commerce.
EXPLORE

Zepeto

Customize avatars, explore worlds, and interact in a mobile social space.
EXPLORE

ROBLOX

Play games, build experiences, and socialize in an interactive platform.
EXPLORE

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Virtual Economy in Metaverses

Market Trends Across Metaverses

Monetization of Virtual Economies

  • Why It Matters:
    • Virtual economies are the backbone of metaverses, with users spending on virtual goods, experiences, and services.
    • Platforms are diversifying monetization strategies beyond NFT sales to include subscriptions, transaction fees, and ad revenue.
    • The success of a metaverse often hinges on the robustness and scalability of its economy.
  • Key Insights:
    • The global market for virtual goods (e.g., fashion, avatar upgrades) is projected to grow by 35% annually, reaching over $75 billion by 2026.
    • Tokenized economies (cryptocurrency within metaverses) drive deeper engagement by giving users real financial incentives.
1. Monetization of Virtual Economies

Growth of Virtual Real Estate

  • Why It Matters:
    • Virtual real estate is evolving from speculative trading to functional uses, like hosting events, retail stores, and virtual offices.
    • Businesses are acquiring virtual spaces to create branded experiences, similar to physical retail strategies.
  • Key Insights:
    • The virtual real estate market generated $2 billion in sales in 2024, with an increasing number of corporate buyers.
    • Utility-based real estate (spaces used for commerce, training, or events) is driving long-term growth.
2. Growth of Virtual Real Estate

Rise of Branded Experiences and Virtual Commerce

  • Why It Matters:
    • Brands are using metaverses to create immersive, interactive experiences, from virtual fashion shows to gamified product launches.
    • Virtual commerce is transitioning from experimental campaigns to a critical revenue stream, especially for digital-native brands.
  • Key Insights:
    • Companies like Nike and Gucci have seen significant returns on virtual products, with Nike's RTFKT generating $185 million in revenue from digital sneakers in 2024.
    • Metaverse advertising and sponsorship spending is projected to grow 10x by 2030, reaching $200 billion globally.
3. Branded Experiences & Virtual Commerce

Tokenization and Decentralized Governance

  • Why It Matters:
    • Tokens and Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) are transforming how metaverses operate, shifting power to communities and users.
    • Users can participate in governance, decide on platform updates, and share in the economic rewards of platform growth.
  • Key Insights:
    • The value locked in metaverse-related DAOs surpassed $10 billion in 2024, with decentralized platforms like The Sandbox leading the charge.
    • Governance and tokenomics are becoming central to user engagement and platform sustainability.
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4. Tokenization & Decentralized Governance

Advances in AI-Powered User Experiences

  • Why It Matters:
    • AI is enabling more immersive and personalized virtual worlds through dynamic environments, lifelike avatars, and intelligent NPCs (Non-Player Characters).
    • Users expect high levels of interactivity and realism, which AI can deliver.
  • Key Insights:
    • Platforms integrating AI-powered tools are seeing 25% higher user retention rates and more active daily engagement.
    • AI also powers automated content creation, reducing development costs and accelerating innovation.
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5. AI-Powered User Experiences

Actual Price of Tokens/Crypto

Metaverse Economy Comparison

Metaverse Economy Table
Metaverse User Engagement Economic Activity Content Creation Notable Features
Roblox Around 55 million daily active users. Significant in-game purchases and a thriving developer economy. User-generated games and experiences; developer monetization. Extensive user-generated content; strong developer community.
Second Life Approximately 100,000 daily active users. Over $650 million in user-to-user transactions since launch. Users create and monetize virtual goods and services. Established virtual economy; real estate and virtual goods trade.
Decentraland Around 2,000 daily active users. Virtual land sales exceeding $50 million; MANA token-based economy. Users build and monetize virtual experiences and art. Blockchain-based; decentralized governance.
The Sandbox Approximately 10,000 daily active users. Over $144 million in virtual land sales; SAND token-based economy. Users create and monetize voxel assets and games. Blockchain-based; partnerships with major brands.
VRChat Over 15,000 concurrent users at peak times. Limited direct economic transactions; relies on community-driven content. Users create and share virtual worlds and avatars. Focus on social interaction and user-generated experiences.
Zepeto Around 1 million daily active users. Users spend on virtual items; platform collaborates with fashion brands for virtual merchandise. Users create avatars and virtual spaces; some monetization through virtual item sales. Popular in East Asia; mobile-focused platform.
Horizon Worlds User numbers not publicly disclosed. Currently limited monetization options; Meta plans to introduce creator monetization tools. Users can build and share virtual experiences. Developed by Meta. VR experience.

Essential Equipment for Metaverses

Virtual Reality (VR) Headsets

To fully experience immersive metaverses like VRChat or Horizon Worlds, a VR headset is essential. These devices provide 360° views, motion tracking, and full-body immersion, transforming the way users interact with virtual spaces.
Key Features to Look For:
– Comfort & Fit: Long sessions require lightweight, well-cushioned headsets.
– Tracking Technology: Look for 6DoF (six degrees of freedom) tracking.
– Controller Design: Precise and intuitive controls are essential for VR games.
– Wireless vs. Wired: Wireless offers freedom, while wired offers performance.

Meta Quest 3
HTC Vive Pro 2
Apple Vision Pro
Meta Quest 3S

Using Computer

For Decentraland, The Sandbox, and Roblox, a VR headset isn’t always required, but a powerful computer can drastically improve performance and visuals. Smooth frame rates and quick load times ensure a better experience in virtual worlds.
Key Features to Look For:
Graphics Card (GPU): Aim for at least an NVIDIA RTX 3060 or higher.
Processor (CPU): Look for Intel i5 / Ryzen 5 or higher for smooth performance.
RAM: Minimum 16GB to handle 3D assets and large game files.
Storage (SSD): Faster load times with an SSD vs. traditional HDD.

ASUS ROG Strix G15
Alienware Area-51

Using Mobile Devices

Not all metaverses require a PC or VR headset. Apps like Zepeto and Roblox run directly on mobile phones, making it possible to experience metaverses on the go. With mobile-friendly metaverses, users can explore social hangouts, games, and mini metaverse worlds.

Key Features to Look For:

  • Performance (CPU & GPU): Flagship devices like iPhones and high-end Androids handle metaverses better.
  • Display Quality: AMOLED or OLED displays enhance visual clarity.
  • Storage: Metaverse apps like Roblox and Zepeto can take up space.
  • Battery Life: Long play sessions need long battery life.
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Internet Connection

No metaverse experience is complete without a fast, stable internet connection. From loading 3D assets to interacting with users in VRChat, a slow connection can ruin the experience.

Key Features to Look For:

  • Minimum Speed: Aim for at least 50 Mbps for optimal performance.
  • Latency (Ping): Low latency (<20ms) is essential for real-time social interactions.
  • Wired vs. Wi-Fi: A wired Ethernet connection is always better for PC VR.

Current Issues & Concerns

Decentraland

User Engagement and Technical Challenges: Critics have noted that Decentraland often appears empty, with limited active user engagement. Technical issues such as bugs and long loading times have also been highlighted, affecting the overall user experience.


The Sandbox

Market Viability: Discussions have emerged questioning the long-term sustainability of The Sandbox, especially in the volatile blockchain and NFT markets. Concerns revolve around whether the platform can maintain user interest and economic stability over time.


Second Life

Aging Platform: As one of the earliest virtual worlds, Second Life faces challenges related to outdated technology and declining user engagement. The platform’s ability to innovate and compete with newer metaverse experiences is a topic of concern.


VRChat

User Safety and Moderation: VRChat has been criticized for inadequate moderation, leading to instances of harassment and exposure to inappropriate content, especially for younger users. Ensuring a safe environment remains a significant challenge.

Horizon Worlds

Inappropriate Content and User Behavior: Reports have surfaced about children accessing Horizon Worlds and encountering adult content or engaging in disruptive behavior. This raises concerns about the effectiveness of age restrictions and content moderation.


Zepeto

Data Privacy Concerns: As a platform popular among younger audiences, Zepeto has faced scrutiny over data collection practices and the safety of user interactions. Ensuring robust privacy measures is a pressing issue.


Roblox

Content Moderation and Child Safety: Roblox has been under scrutiny for challenges in moderating user-generated content, leading to potential exposure of children to inappropriate material. The platform has acknowledged the difficulty in policing its vast virtual world.

 

These concerns highlight the complexities and responsibilities associated with developing and maintaining metaverse platforms, especially regarding user safety, content moderation, and technological sustainability.

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