The metaverse is a digital reality that combines aspects of social media, online gaming, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and cryptocurrencies to allow users to interact virtually. Augmented reality overlays visual elements, sound, and other sensory input onto real-world settings to enhance the user experience. In contrast, virtual reality is entirely virtual and enhances fictional realities.
The metaverse is a shared virtual environment that people access via the Internet. Cryptocurrency is an aspect of the metaverse. Technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are combined in the metaverse to create a sense of "virtual presence." Meta (formerly Facebook) CEO Mark Zuckerberg believes augmented reality glasses will eventually be as widespread as smartphones. In October 2021, Meta announced plans to create 10,000 new high-skilled jobs in the European Union (EU) to help shape the metaverse.
An exact definition of the metaverse may be hard to explain because of its depths, but most technology experts agree, that the metaverse is a vast network where individuals via their avatars can interact socially and professionally, invest in currency, take classes, work, and travel in 3-D virtual reality. As the metaverse grows, it may likely create online spaces where user interactions are more multidimensional than current technology supports. In simple terms, the metaverse will allow users to go beyond just viewing digital content, users in the metaverse will be able to immerse themselves in a space where the digital and physical worlds converge.