The Metaverse can be defined as a three-dimensional, virtual and interactive version of the internet. Sir Charles Wheatstone’s invention of the stereoscope device to create 3D images in 1838 laid the foundations for the fields of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR) and extended reality (XR). The concept of the Metaverse is a vast digital universe created by the combination of Web3.0, XR, blockchain and artificial intelligence technologies, where users can interact through avatars. This concept became even more popular when Mark Zuckerberg announced the Metaverse, but the idea is not new; many technology companies were already working in this area.
The Metaverse is seen as a universe that will bring together the virtual and physical worlds, creating a new turning point for humanity and causing serious paradigm shifts. This new digital universe will offer innovations and different experiences in many areas, from education to health, from the business world to social life. People will be able to shop in the Metaverse, organize business meetings and social events, and access education and health services. At the same time, this new universe will allow for the purchase and sale of virtual real estate and products, along with concepts such as digital economy and NFTs.
The construction and development of the Metaverse is supported by many major technology companies worldwide, such as Meta (formerly Facebook), NVIDIA, Roblox, Epic Games. These companies are investing in hardware, software, and internet technologies that will form the infrastructure of the Metaverse.
However, as much as the opportunities offered by the Metaverse, there are also challenges such as data security, privacy, ethical issues, and digital addiction. The effects of this new digital universe on the real world and the approach that states and societies will take are of great importance. The Metaverse is taking shape as the digital universe of the future, which has both opportunities and challenges, and is pushing the boundaries of technology.
