Metaverse

Home Metaverse Page 72

Differences Between Web3 and Metaverse – Metaverseplanet.net

0
Differences Between Web3 and Metaverse – Metaverseplanet.net


In the ever-evolving blockchain ecosystem, two buzzworthy concepts frequently emerge: Web3 (or Web 3.0) and the metaverse. While both are often discussed in the same context, they represent distinct technological paradigms with different goals. In this article, we’ll define these concepts and highlight their core differences.

What Is Web3?

Web3 (or Web 3.0) refers to the next-generation, decentralized internet. In contrast to Web 1.0, which offered static web pages with minimal user interaction, and Web 2.0, which introduced interactive platforms dominated by centralized tech giants, Web3 aims to democratize the internet.

Built on blockchain technology and powered by decentralized protocols like Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) and decentralized applications (dApps), Web3 envisions a web where users own and control their data. Instead of companies managing centralized servers, Web3 distributes data across networks owned by individual users.

Key features of Web3 include:

Decentralization: No central authority can control or censor content.

User Ownership: Data and assets belong to users.

Blockchain Integration: Cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and DAOs form its backbone.

Projects like Polkadot (DOT) exemplify the Web3 vision, striving for a more inclusive and open internet.

What Is the Metaverse?

The metaverse represents virtual worlds where users interact in immersive, interconnected environments. Popularized by Neal Stephenson’s 1992 novel Snow Crash, the metaverse concept gained mainstream recognition through books and movies like Ready Player One and The Matrix.

Thanks to advancements in virtual reality (VR) and blockchain technology, the metaverse has become more tangible. Platforms like Decentraland (MANA) and The Sandbox (SAND) allow users to trade virtual land and assets as NFTs, host events, and build custom experiences.

Key characteristics of the metaverse include:

Virtual Economy: Users trade assets and services using cryptocurrencies.

Social Interaction: Events like concerts, meetings, and exhibitions occur in real time.

Content Creation: Users generate and monetize their content.

Why Are Web3 and the Metaverse Confused?

The overlapping use of blockchain technology causes frequent confusion between the two concepts. Additionally, since both are emerging technologies with evolving definitions, companies sometimes blur the lines between Web3 and the metaverse.

For instance, Meta (formerly Facebook) announced a $10 billion investment in metaverse development, though its vision diverges from the decentralized ethos championed by blockchain advocates. The shared reliance on technologies like NFTs and cryptocurrencies further complicates the distinction.

How Are Web3 and the Metaverse Different?

While Web3 and the metaverse both use blockchain, their core purposes differ:

Web3: Focuses on creating a decentralized internet where users control data and applications.

Metaverse: Centers on building immersive virtual worlds that mimic or enhance reality.

Additionally, the metaverse concept predates blockchain technology, with early examples like online multiplayer games considered precursors. Blockchain now powers decentralized metaverses, expanding their capabilities.

Although Web3 and the metaverse intersect through blockchain technology, they address different needs. Web3 aims to reshape the internet, while the metaverse seeks to redefine digital experiences in virtual worlds. Understanding these distinctions is crucial as both continue to shape our digital future.

You May Also Like

Follow us on TWITTER (X) and be instantly informed about the latest developments…

Copy URL



Source link

Exploring Digital Luxury in the Emerging Metaverse

The concept of luxury has been evolving for centuries, traditionally defined by tangible assets such as opulent estates, high-end fashion, and exclusive experiences. However, as we venture deeper into the 21st century, the definition of luxury is undergoing a radical transformation, driven by technological advancements and digital innovation. The metaverse—a collective virtual shared space, created by the convergence of virtually enhanced physical reality and physically persistent virtual space—emerges as the new frontier for luxury. This article explores how digital luxury is being unveiled in the metaverse, examines the intersection of opulence and virtual worlds, and navigates the future of luxury in digital spaces.

Unveiling Digital Luxury in the Metaverse Realm

In the burgeoning landscape of the metaverse, digital luxury is emerging as a key player, drawing the attention of brands and consumers alike. This virtual realm offers a dynamic platform where traditional luxury items are reimagined and redefined. Digital luxury in the metaverse is not just about replicating physical goods in a virtual space; it transcends the tangible by offering unique experiences and assets that are exclusive to the digital world. From virtual real estate to digital fashion, the metaverse provides an unparalleled canvas for luxury brands to innovate and engage with consumers in novel ways.

One of the primary drivers of digital luxury in the metaverse is the creation of virtual identities. Users in the metaverse have the freedom to express themselves through avatars, which can be customized with high-end digital fashion items and accessories. Luxury brands are seizing this opportunity by designing exclusive digital collections that cater to the desires of a new generation of consumers who value individuality and self-expression. These digital assets often come with a sense of exclusivity and scarcity, much like their physical counterparts, but with the added allure of being part of a pioneering movement in the digital world.

The allure of digital luxury extends beyond fashion, encompassing virtual real estate and art. In the metaverse, owning a piece of virtual land or a digital art piece is akin to possessing a luxury asset in the physical world. These digital commodities are often limited in supply and highly sought after, driving up their value and status. The acquisition of such digital assets is not just about ownership but also about being part of an elite community that appreciates and invests in the future of digital luxury.

Furthermore, the metaverse offers luxury brands the opportunity to create immersive experiences that are not possible in the physical world. Through virtual reality and augmented reality technologies, brands can design interactive experiences that captivate and engage consumers in ways that were previously unimaginable. These experiences often blend elements of gaming, storytelling, and social interaction, creating a new dimension of luxury that is both experiential and participatory.

As the metaverse continues to evolve, so does the concept of digital luxury. The boundary between the digital and physical worlds is becoming increasingly blurred, with luxury brands exploring innovative ways to bridge the gap. This evolution is driven by a shift in consumer preferences, with a growing demand for digital-first experiences and assets that offer both aesthetic and emotional value. In this new paradigm, luxury is no longer confined to the material but extends into the virtual, where creativity and technology converge to create a new form of opulence.

Ultimately, the unveiling of digital luxury in the metaverse is a testament to the limitless potential of technology and innovation. As brands and consumers navigate this uncharted territory, the metaverse is poised to become a central hub for luxury, offering a space where the boundaries of creativity, technology, and exclusivity are constantly pushed and redefined.

The Intersection of Opulence and Virtual Worlds

The intersection of opulence and virtual worlds represents a fascinating convergence of technology, creativity, and consumerism. In the metaverse, opulence is not merely a replication of physical luxury but a reimagining of what is possible in a digital environment. This intersection offers a unique opportunity for luxury brands to expand their reach and redefine their offerings in a way that resonates with a tech-savvy audience.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this intersection is the way luxury brands are leveraging blockchain technology to authenticate and protect digital assets. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have become a cornerstone of digital luxury, providing a secure and verifiable way to own and trade unique digital items. These tokens ensure that digital luxury assets retain their value and exclusivity, much like physical luxury goods. The use of NFTs in the metaverse allows for the creation of limited-edition digital products that can be bought, sold, and traded, adding a new layer of exclusivity to digital luxury.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in the metaverse further enhances the luxury experience. AI-driven personalization allows brands to tailor their offerings to individual preferences, creating bespoke digital experiences that cater to the unique tastes of each consumer. This level of customization is a hallmark of luxury in the physical world, and its translation into the digital realm underscores the potential for innovation at the intersection of opulence and virtual worlds.

Moreover, the metaverse provides a platform for collaborative creativity, where luxury brands can partner with digital artists, designers, and technologists to co-create unique virtual experiences and products. These collaborations often result in groundbreaking projects that push the boundaries of what is possible in the digital realm. By embracing the collaborative nature of the metaverse, luxury brands can create a new form of opulence that is inclusive, innovative, and forward-thinking.

The social aspect of the metaverse also plays a crucial role in the intersection of opulence and virtual worlds. In this digital space, luxury is not just about ownership but also about social interaction and community building. Virtual gatherings, events, and experiences allow consumers to connect with like-minded individuals and share their appreciation for digital luxury. This sense of community and belonging adds an emotional dimension to digital luxury, making it more than just a transactional experience.

Ultimately, the intersection of opulence and virtual worlds is a testament to the transformative power of technology and creativity. As luxury brands continue to explore and innovate in the metaverse, they are not only redefining the concept of luxury but also shaping the future of consumer experiences. This intersection represents a new frontier for luxury, where the possibilities are as limitless as the imagination.

Navigating the Future of Luxury in Digital Spaces

As we look to the future, the landscape of luxury in digital spaces is poised for significant transformation. The metaverse, with its boundless possibilities, is set to become a key arena for the luxury industry, offering new opportunities for growth, innovation, and engagement. Navigating this future requires a keen understanding of the evolving consumer landscape, technological advancements, and the changing definition of luxury.

One of the key challenges in navigating the future of luxury in digital spaces is understanding the needs and preferences of a new generation of consumers. Digital natives, who have grown up with technology and social media, are driving the demand for digital-first experiences and assets. These consumers value authenticity, personalization, and interactivity, and they seek out brands that align with their values and lifestyle. Luxury brands must adapt to these changing preferences by creating digital experiences and products that resonate with this audience.

Technological advancements will play a crucial role in shaping the future of luxury in digital spaces. As virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence continue to evolve, they will offer new ways for luxury brands to engage with consumers and create immersive experiences. These technologies will enable brands to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation, offering consumers a level of engagement and interaction that is unparalleled in the physical world.

The future of luxury in digital spaces also hinges on the ability of brands to create value and exclusivity in a virtual environment. As the metaverse becomes more mainstream, the challenge will be to maintain the exclusivity and desirability that are hallmarks of luxury. This will require brands to continually innovate and differentiate themselves in a crowded digital marketplace. Limited-edition digital products, exclusive virtual experiences, and collaborations with digital artists and creators will be key strategies for maintaining exclusivity and creating value in the metaverse.

Sustainability and ethical considerations will also play a significant role in the future of luxury in digital spaces. As consumers become more conscious of their impact on the environment, they will seek out brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. Luxury brands must address these concerns by adopting sustainable practices in the creation and distribution of digital products and experiences. This includes minimizing the environmental impact of digital assets and ensuring that ethical considerations are at the forefront of digital innovation.

In conclusion, navigating the future of luxury in digital spaces requires a forward-thinking approach that embraces innovation, creativity, and consumer-centricity. As the metaverse continues to evolve, luxury brands have the opportunity to redefine the concept of luxury and create new and exciting experiences for consumers. By staying attuned to technological advancements and consumer preferences, brands can position themselves at the forefront of this digital revolution and shape the future of luxury in a way that is both meaningful and impactful.

The exploration of digital luxury in the emerging metaverse presents a compelling narrative of transformation and innovation. As the boundaries between the physical and digital worlds continue to blur, luxury is being redefined in ways that were once unimaginable. The metaverse offers a new frontier for luxury, where creativity, technology, and consumer engagement converge to create a new form of opulence. As we navigate this uncharted territory, the future of luxury in digital spaces promises to be as dynamic and exciting as the technologies that drive it. Brands that embrace this evolution and adapt to the changing landscape will be well-positioned to thrive in this new era of digital luxury.

Meet Andee Olson, the Chief Operating Officer at Obsess

0
Meet Andee Olson, the Chief Operating Officer at Obsess


As part of the second edition of our “Meet the Leadership” series, we’re excited to introduce Andee Olson, Chief Operating Officer at Obsess. We asked Andee to share highlights from her professional journey, what led her to Obsess, advice on impactful leadership, the role of gamification in commerce today and her thoughts on the future of engagement in virtual experiences. Here’s what she had to say:

Q. You’ve had an impressive career journey with roles at companies like Vogue and Bumble. Can you walk us through that path and what ultimately led you to Obsess?

AO: When I look back at my career journey, I’m reminded of a campaign we did at Bumble called “One Connection.” The whole idea behind the campaign was that it only takes one person to believe in you, see your potential, or encourage you to take a chance. This has held true for every opportunity I’ve had throughout my career.

A friend recommended me for an internship at Vogue, which ultimately turned into a full-time role. I worked there for many years and made connections that led me to every single job I’ve had since. I worked with people who later recommended me for roles at Bumble and hired me at Code and Theory, and I feel very fortunate for that.

I also worked with our current founder and CEO, Neha Singh, at Vogue, where she was leading product at the time. I was working in a more operational and strategy role, given my engineering background, and she was the one who encouraged me to explore product management. I had never heard of product management before, but it turned out I was already operating in that capacity. I took proper training and product management has been something I’ve applied in every role since. After we both left Vogue, I told Neha to keep me in mind if anything interesting came up in the future, and I always said I would follow her anywhere. And sure enough, she did! I’m so grateful that Neha was one of my “one connections”—her encouragement brought me many career opportunities and ultimately led me to where I am today.

Q. For those starting their careers and aspiring to leadership positions, what are some qualities or lessons you learned along the way?

AO: I’ve had amazing role models and mentors—people I look up to and still go to with questions. So, I definitely want to give back what I’ve been given. Everyone has a different leadership style and what I’ve found works best for me is supporting the team, leading with empathy and, of course, sometimes a dose of tough love goes a long way. I don’t ask of my team anything I wouldn’t do myself. I feel so lucky to manage such a hardworking group of people. They are driven, they are creative and they always bring their best to the table, which makes my job a lot easier. I’m able to set higher expectations because of it. The way I see my role is to support them the best I can. Ultimately, their success is my success, which is the company’s success. I’m here to be my team’s cheerleader for life—I want to be able to support them even after Obsess. I still keep in touch with so many of my previous coworkers. 

For anyone aspiring to be a leader, you have to find what works for you when it comes to leadership style. A lot of the time, a leadership style may work for you, but it might not work for the people you’re managing—this is something I’ve learned along the way too. It’s about finding that balance: start with a foundation and evolve based on your team’s needs. You know, my dad has always been someone I’ve gone to for advice and looked up to for leadership guidance too. It was really interesting when, a few years ago, he came to me asking for my advice on something—tables can turn! I always tell everyone on my team that I’ll probably be working for them one day, and I believe that wholeheartedly because they’re all so smart and driven.

Q: On to your current role and the evolving virtual landscape—now, more than ever, we’re seeing the fusion of online commerce and gamification. Can you tell us more about the role Obsess is playing in this shift?

AO: Absolutely! I’m very excited about this combination, mostly because it’s something I’ve talked about since my time at Vogue and my agency days—the opportunity to mix commerce and content. There are multiple ways to shop, and no shopper fits into just one category. In fact, most fit into multiple categories. The two most common are: “utility-driven,” where a shopper knows exactly what they want to buy, and “exploratory,” where shoppers want to search, learn more and get inspired. Content helps you do exactly that.

Gamification is a continuation of this conversation. You’re adding an engagement layer on top of everything, and you’re making the exploration aspect fun. At the end of the day, shopping should be fun, right? When you’re looking for something, you want to feel inspired and you also want to enjoy the process. And while you’re doing that, you’re engaging with the brand. The more you understand what the brand is about, the more memories you’re making—and those memories will stick with you! You might not purchase at that exact moment, but you’re likely to purchase in the future because of the connection you’ve made with the brand.

When we look at our customers who have prioritized gamification in their virtual experiences, the results speak for themselves. Users are spending more time, clicking on more elements, returning more often and checking out with more products. Ultimately, you have to cater to this exploratory audience. If not, your brand will miss out on a huge opportunity. It’s the natural extension of what’s been happening for years—first with 2D content, then with Obsess’ 3D content, and now taking it one step further with gamification.

Q. On the topic of gamification, over the past year, Obsess has designed and developed branded experiences for Roblox. With physical commerce now part of the platform’s roadmap, what is your recommendation for brands?

AO: I could not recommend Roblox more for brands, especially those looking to target younger audiences. While Roblox is known as a gaming platform that appeals to young children, it’s increasingly popular with the 18-34 age group, which is what’s enticing brands. According to the latest numbers, Roblox has nearly 90 million monthly active users who are spending over two and a half hours a day on average—more than on social media platforms. So, this isn’t just an incredible audience in terms of size, but it’s also a highly engaged audience.

So if I’m a brand, I’m thinking: how do I reach this high-value audience? One way is to go to a platform where that audience already exists—and this audience definitely exists on Roblox. What’s so unique about Roblox is that you’re not only reaching this massive audience, but you can also completely customize the experience to make it truly unique to your brand. This allows you to educate consumers about your brand, showcase what you have to offer and even incorporate your brand’s core values—all through a fun and engaging experience.

Now, with the recently announced Shopify integration, brands have the ability to convert these users into paying customers. If brands aren’t paying attention to this yet, they absolutely should be, because many are—and you don’t want to be left behind with this audience. I think we’ll see a lot of brands take advantage of this partnership next year, especially since some have already started making a splash in the space. What’s exciting for us at Obsess is that we’re able to bring our learnings from virtual stores and experiences into Roblox—how to create an experience that aligns with your brand, educates and engages your consumers, and ultimately converts them into shoppers.

Q: What are some other use cases for 3D technology do you see in the next few years?

AO: There are a couple of things that I’m excited about, one being B2B solutions. I remember working on case studies in college and thinking about the area of the B2B solutions, which have traditionally been very operational and process-driven. Not a lot of technology was going into that space. In my agency job, I worked with a lot of companies to help with their B2B solutions. Now, when I think about it, there’s so much 3D technology can do for sales enablement, learning tools and more within the B2B industry.  When I think about the potential, the work we could do to help businesses reach consumers, improve their processes and efficiencies and make what they do so much more scalable—and of course, engaging—is incredibly exciting.

Another area is real estate. As someone who’s always keeping an eye on real estate—constantly exploring properties I’d love to buy, and as someone who, when moving into a new home, creates old-school collages of furniture in Google Slides—I’m thrilled about the potential for immersive solutions in this industry. There are so many different aspects of real estate that could benefit from 3D solutions, from building and concepting to execution at both commercial and residential levels. Visualizing design, layouts, and materials all in 3D could completely transform the experience. I mean, the possibilities here are endless. From day one at Obsess, I’ve thought, these industries could really use a shake-up. Now, I finally feel the technology is in a place where we can truly offer something that’s both unique and beneficial to them as businesses.

Q: Lastly, where do you see immersive technology going in the next five years?

AO: When I think about how much has changed since I first started working at Obsess three and a half years ago to now—it’s been incredible and so impactful. In five years? I can’t even imagine, but there are some things I think we’ll start to see more of, and at scale.

First, immersive experiences that are personalized for you. Today, most experiences we create are driven by what the brand thinks you should be buying. What we’ll start to see more of are experiences driven by what you, as a user or shopper, want to buy. We’ve been doing this in some passive ways, but there’s so much room for evolution, and we’re actively working on it—a lot of it powered by AI.

AI, in turn, is another area that will begin to drive this industry and technology, making it more efficient and effective. I also don’t think this will necessarily take five years; we’ll start seeing this much sooner, but in five years, it will likely be happening at a much larger scale.



Source link

SuiHub Global Accelerator Announces Launch, Accepting Applications Until January 10

0
SuiHub Global Accelerator Announces Launch, Accepting Applications Until January 10


In Brief

SuiHub has launched its global accelerator program in partnership with Brinc, CoinList, and Ghaf Studios, and is now accepting applications from interested participants until January 10th.

SuiHub Global Accelerator Announces Launch, Accepting Applications Until January 10

SuiHub announced the launch of its global accelerator program, in partnership with several collaborators, including Brinc, CoinList, and Ghaf Studios, which is now accepting applications from interested participants until January 10th. The program is scheduled to begin in February 2025.

Participating teams will have the opportunity to secure up to $200,000 in funding, provided on a milestone basis, in exchange for tokens and equity. They will gain direct access to the Sui Solutions Engineering team for technical support and potential co-development of their product, helping to maximize the capabilities of the Sui Network. Teams will also benefit from expert guidance on incentive design, distribution mechanisms, listing strategies, and other critical elements for building a sustainable token economy.

In addition, participating teams will be showcased to a global audience of over 10 million early adopters through the marketing channels of SuiHub’s partners. Support will also be provided in areas such as growth marketing, leveraging Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), and developing go-to-market strategies. Teams will be able to tap into the project’s extensive network of partners to strengthen their solutions and accelerate their time to market.

As a program‘s partner, Brinc will offer comprehensive fundraising support by connecting project founders with a network of investors, as well as assisting with pitch preparation and managing investor relations. They will provide access to partners, mentors, and experts, enhancing opportunities for learning and growth. Brinc will also facilitate partnerships and business development, helping startups connect with key industry players and potential collaborators to drive their growth.

CoinList will help participating projects gain visibility by promoting them to its global audience of over 10 million early adopters through its marketing channels. At the beginning of the program, CoinList will host a workshop on token launch strategies, providing valuable industry insights. Selected projects will also receive preferred access to CoinList’s services, such as incentivized testnets, growth campaigns, and token launch and trading opportunities. CoinList will further support business development by facilitating partnerships within its broad network of partners.

Ghaf Studios will offer tailored fundraising support, connecting project founders with investors and aiding in pitch preparation and investor relations. They will also assist with developing go-to-market strategies, refining value propositions, and creating effective launch plans. Additionally, Ghaf Studios will support projects with tokenomics design, marketing strategies, partnerships, business development, and operational support.

Sui Network will provide engineering assistance and facilitate network access for participants, ensuring they have the necessary technical support to succeed.

Who Is The Program Looking For?

It is designed for startups that have a product ready to launch on the Sui network, and can benefit from the ecosystem access and growth opportunities offered by the program. It seeks founders who are committed to building on the Sui blockchain, with a clear understanding of why they want to be part of the network and how they can contribute to its growth. Additionally, teams that are pre-TGE are ideal candidates for the program. However, teams that have an existing token but have not yet listed it on any trading platforms may also be considered.

Disclaimer

In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.

About The Author


Alisa, a dedicated journalist at the MPost, specializes in cryptocurrency, zero-knowledge proofs, investments, and the expansive realm of Web3. With a keen eye for emerging trends and technologies, she delivers comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.

More articles


Alisa Davidson










Alisa, a dedicated journalist at the MPost, specializes in cryptocurrency, zero-knowledge proofs, investments, and the expansive realm of Web3. With a keen eye for emerging trends and technologies, she delivers comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.








More articles



Source link

Donald Trump Wants to Make the U.S. a Cryptocurrency Leader – Metaverseplanet.net

0
Donald Trump Wants to Make the U.S. a Cryptocurrency Leader – Metaverseplanet.net


Donald Trump, elected as the 47th President of the United States on November 6, 2024, after defeating his rival Kamala Harris, made a notable statement about Bitcoin (BTC) and cryptocurrencies, topics he actively supported during his election campaign. During a visit to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), where he rang the opening bell, Trump expressed his administration’s ambition to be a “pioneer in the cryptocurrency market.”

Donald Trump: “We’re Going to Do Great Things with Cryptocurrencies”

During his appearance at the NYSE, President Trump was welcomed enthusiastically by traders and investors. Speaking to CNBC’s veteran host Jim Cramer, Trump shared bold plans regarding cryptocurrencies. Responding to Cramer’s question about the BTC/USD strategic reserve, Trump stated:

“We’re going to do great things with cryptocurrencies. Because we don’t want China or any other country to dominate the cryptocurrency market. We want to be a pioneer in this field.”

A Shift in Trump’s Stance on Cryptocurrencies

Trump’s support for the cryptocurrency industry is not entirely new, though it marks a significant shift from his earlier skepticism. In the past, Trump argued that Bitcoin posed a threat to the US dollar’s dominance. However, his perspective has evolved over the years, making cryptocurrencies one of the central themes of his latest election campaign.

In July 2024, Trump attended the Bitcoin Conference held in Nashville, where he delivered a landmark speech. During the event, he outlined his administration’s vision for cryptocurrencies, promising to:

Dismiss the SEC Chairman: Trump vowed to remove Gary Gensler, the former Chairman of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), known for his stringent stance against cryptocurrencies.

Create a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve: He pledged to establish a national Bitcoin reserve to strengthen the US position in the global crypto market.

Support Domestic Crypto Mining: Trump emphasized the importance of keeping cryptocurrency mining operations within the United States, declaring: “If cryptocurrencies are going to shape the future, I want them to be issued and produced in the USA.”

Current Market Overview

At the time of writing, the price of Bitcoin stands at $100,000, reflecting growing market optimism fueled by supportive policies from the new US administration.

Disclaimer: The content provided on our website is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice, investment recommendations, or guarantees of profit or loss.

Follow us on TWITTER (X) and be instantly informed about the latest developments…

Copy URL



Source link

Google Introduced “Whisk”, an artificial intelligence tool that creates images using images! – Metaverseplanet.net

0
Google Introduced “Whisk”, an artificial intelligence tool that creates images using images! – Metaverseplanet.net


Google has introduced a new artificial intelligence tool called Whisk, designed to simplify visual content creation by reducing the reliance on text commands. This innovative model uses visual commands to generate customized visuals, setting a new standard in AI-powered design.

A New Approach to Visual Creation

During its recent announcement event, Google unveiled several AI-powered tools, including Veo 2, a video creation tool aimed at competing with OpenAI’s Sora. Among these introductions, Whisk stood out for its unique ability to create visuals using reference images instead of extensive text input.

How Whisk Works

With Whisk, users can guide the AI by providing reference images that define the main elements, details, and desired style of the visual output. There’s no restriction on using just one image—multiple images can be referenced to create a blended design that meets user preferences.

While the focus is on visual commands, users still have the option to supplement their input with text commands. This feature becomes particularly useful when specific details are hard to represent visually or when suitable reference images are unavailable.

Once the input process is complete, Whisk generates a variety of visuals that align with the provided references. Users can select their favorite version, download it, or even make further adjustments using text-based prompts if desired.

Not for Photorealism, but for Unique Design

It’s important to note that Whisk is not designed for creating photorealistic images. Instead, it targets users seeking distinctive and artistic designs. Its underlying technology is powered by Google’s latest visual rendering model, Imagen 3.

Currently, Whisk is not publicly available and is inaccessible in certain regions. Google plans to expand access in the near future. We will share updates as soon as the tool becomes widely available.

Google’s video for Whisk

Follow us on TWITTER (X) and be instantly informed about the latest developments…

Copy URL



Source link

Google Announces Veo 2, the New Video Generation Tool That Will Dethrone OpenAI’s Sora! – Metaverseplanet.net

0
Google Announces Veo 2, the New Video Generation Tool That Will Dethrone OpenAI’s Sora! – Metaverseplanet.net


Google has unveiled Veo 2, its latest advancement in video production technology, promising a new standard in high-quality video creation. With capabilities including 4K resolution and cinematic effects, Veo 2 is set to revolutionize the video production landscape.

Google DeepMind’s Innovation in Video Production

Google DeepMind has introduced groundbreaking advancements in video production with the announcement of Veo 2. This next-generation artificial intelligence model elevates video creation by enabling the production of long-form videos with 4K resolution. Veo 2, designed as the successor to the original Veo model, powers several key products within Google’s ecosystem.

Key Specifications of Veo 2

Building on its predecessor’s foundation, Veo 2 allows users to generate videos using text commands and reference images. However, its standout features include enhanced lighting effects and more advanced camera control options, resulting in videos with a cinematic and visually immersive quality.

The updated model excels in producing sharper, more realistic visuals, particularly in fast-motion scenes. Veo 2 effectively simulates fluid dynamics, intricate light-shadow interplay, and advanced artistic effects, raising the bar for video quality. Despite these significant improvements, certain challenges remain, especially in handling complex, long-duration projects.

Competitive Impact and Future Prospects

With Veo 2’s launch, Google is poised to intensify competition with rival AI-driven video production platforms like Sora. Google plans to implement pilot projects in select areas to evaluate Veo 2’s capabilities before expanding its availability globally. As testing progresses, the AI-driven video production industry is expected to experience a major shift driven by this innovative technology.

Follow us on TWITTER (X) and be instantly informed about the latest developments…

Copy URL



Source link

Glacier Network Adjusts GLS Distribution And Unveils Community-Exclusive Round

0
Glacier Network Adjusts GLS Distribution And Unveils Community-Exclusive Round


In Brief

Glacier Network introduced the updated GLS token listing Bootstrap Plan, reallocating 1% of the total token supply to the community.

Glacier Network Adjusts GLS Distribution And Unveils Community-Exclusive Round

Decentralized data composable protocol Glacier Network introduced the updated GLS token listing Bootstrap Plan, which aims to redefine the approach to fair token launches with a strong emphasis on community ownership.

A key update involves Glacier Network’s early investors agreeing to adjust and reduce their unlock ratios during the Token Generation Event (TGE). Specifically, 65.04% of Angel Round investors reduced their unlock ratio from 5% to 0%, while 53.68% of Pre-seed Round investors lowered theirs from 10% to 0%. Additionally, 48.21% of Seed Round investors have also reduced their unlock ratio from 20% to 0%.

As a result, 10,000,100 GLS, 1% of the total supply, that was originally planned to unlock at TGE, from a total of 18,500,000 GLS, 1.85% of the total supply, will now be reallocated to the community.

This update is anticipated to enhance community ownership by giving the community an opportunity to acquire GLS before it becomes available exclusively on exchanges while also reducing the token unlocks for venture capitalists (VCs) at the TGE. Additionally, it aims to address concerns related to whitelist issues, providing affected individuals a chance to participate in this round.

The adjustment also helps maintain strong community engagement and excitement leading up to the GLS listing. A larger float in the market will contribute to better price stability, making it easier for participants to enter or exit positions. It will also minimize speculative pressure by aligning token distribution with community-driven values.

How To Participate In GLS Listing Bootstrapping Round? 

A total of 1% of the GLS total supply has been reallocated for this Listing Bootstrapping as compensation for the affected participants.

In order to participate, users are encouraged to verify their address eligibility on the network’s website. The GLS Listing Bootstrapping Round will be hosted exclusively on the official Glacier Network website. This round presents the final opportunity for the community to secure GLS before its listing at 10 AM UTC on December 18th, and it’s an opportunity extended to those who have supported Glacier Network throughout its development.

Disclaimer

In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.

About The Author


Alisa, a dedicated journalist at the MPost, specializes in cryptocurrency, zero-knowledge proofs, investments, and the expansive realm of Web3. With a keen eye for emerging trends and technologies, she delivers comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.

More articles


Alisa Davidson










Alisa, a dedicated journalist at the MPost, specializes in cryptocurrency, zero-knowledge proofs, investments, and the expansive realm of Web3. With a keen eye for emerging trends and technologies, she delivers comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.








More articles





Source link

Ethical Principles for the Metaverse

0
Ethical Principles for the Metaverse


This group will start by recognising this variety of perspectives, and rather than adopting a prescriptive or normative position, will focus on a descriptive approach: the main aim will be to review and take stock of the different approaches that have been proposed as a basis for the ethical principles of the metaverse, to synthesize those principles that generate great consensus, as well as to identify those issues that prompt greater debate and stimulate reflection on them. Also, to identify different mechanisms for implementing these principles in organisations, and to issue recommendations around them.



Source link

OpenSim land area, active users up for the holidays – Hypergrid Business

0
OpenSim land area, active users up for the holidays – Hypergrid Business


Both land area and active users increased this month in OpenSim, possibly because people are spending more time inside, where it’s warm.

But who knows, really, why people do what they do?

Anyway, I am now tracking a total of 2,6617 public grids, of which 290 were active this month and 231 published their statistics. If you have a stats page that we’re not tracking, please email me at maria@hypergridbusiness.com — that way, your grid will be mentioned in this report every month, for additional visibility with both search engines and users.

This month, OSgrid was the largest grid by land area, with 35,614 standard region equivalents, with a gain of more than 2,700 new regions, while Wolf Territories Grid was the most active, with 7,737 unique visitors over the past 30 days.

OpenSim land area, active users up for the holidays – Hypergrid Business
OpenSim land area for Dec. 2024. (Hypergrid Business data.)

Our stats do not include most of the grids running on DreamGrid, a free easy-to-use version OpenSim, since these tend to be private grids.

OpenSim is a free, open-source, virtual world platform, that’s similar to Second Life and allows people with no technical skills to quickly and cheaply create virtual worlds and teleport to other virtual worlds. Those with technical skills can run OpenSim worlds on their servers for free using either DreamGrid, the official OpenSim installer for those who are more technically inclined, or any other distribution, while commercial hosting starts at less than $5 a region.

A list of OpenSim hosting providers is here. Download the recommended Firestorm viewer here and find out where to get content for your OpenSim world or region here.

Discovery Grid leaves OpenSim for new virtual world platform

This big news today is that Discovery Grid is shutting down. The plan is for it to reopen on the O3DE platform, which Amazon created then donated to the open source community.

You can read more about it here.

Hypergrid Business now on BlueSky

And we now have a BlueSky account: @HypergridBusiness.

Here are a few other folks to follow:

You can see everyone HGB is following here.

Leave a note in the comments if you have a BlueSky account and want people to be able to follow you, or if you know of a grid that does.

Hypergrid Business newsletter is now available

Every month on the 15th — right after the stats report comes out — we will be sending out a newsletter with all the OpenSim news from the previous month. You can subscribe here or fill out the form below.

span { width: 5px; height: 5px; background-color: #5b5b5b; }#mailpoet_form_3{border-radius: 3px;background: #27282e;text-align: left;}#mailpoet_form_3 form.mailpoet_form {padding: 15px;}#mailpoet_form_3{width: 300px;}#mailpoet_form_3 .mailpoet_message {margin: 0; padding: 0 20px;}
#mailpoet_form_3 .mailpoet_validate_success {color: #00d084}
#mailpoet_form_3 input.parsley-success {color: #00d084}
#mailpoet_form_3 select.parsley-success {color: #00d084}
#mailpoet_form_3 textarea.parsley-success {color: #00d084}

#mailpoet_form_3 .mailpoet_validate_error {color: #cf2e2e}
#mailpoet_form_3 input.parsley-error {color: #cf2e2e}
#mailpoet_form_3 select.parsley-error {color: #cf2e2e}
#mailpoet_form_3 textarea.textarea.parsley-error {color: #cf2e2e}
#mailpoet_form_3 .parsley-errors-list {color: #cf2e2e}
#mailpoet_form_3 .parsley-required {color: #cf2e2e}
#mailpoet_form_3 .parsley-custom-error-message {color: #cf2e2e}
#mailpoet_form_3 .mailpoet_paragraph.last {margin-bottom: 0} @media (max-width: 500px) {#mailpoet_form_3 {background: #27282e;}} @media (min-width: 500px) {#mailpoet_form_3 .last .mailpoet_paragraph:last-child {margin-bottom: 0}} @media (max-width: 500px) {#mailpoet_form_3 .mailpoet_form_column:last-child .mailpoet_paragraph:last-child {margin-bottom: 0}}
]]>

Top 25 grids by active users

When it comes to general-purpose social grids, especially closed grids, the rule of thumb is the busier the better. People looking to make new friends look for grids that already have the most users. Merchants looking to sell content will go to the grids with the most potential customers. Event organizers looking for the biggest audience — you get the idea.

Top 25 most popular grids this month:

Wolf Territories Grid: 7,737 active users
OSgrid: 4,262 active users
GBG World: 2,548 active users
Alternate Metaverse: 2,357 active users
Darkheart’s Playground: 2,192 active users
DigiWorldz: 2,140 active users
WaterSplash: 1,633 active users
Trianon World: 1,142 active users
AviWorlds: 1,073 active users
Neverworld: 1,065 active users
AviVerse AlterEgo: 1,018 active users
Sciattisi Grid: 830 active users
Party Destination Grid: 826 active users
Littlefield: 761 active users
Craft World: 717 active users
AvatarLife: 656 active users
Gentle Fire Grid: 621 active users
Eureka World: 615 active users
Groovy Verse: 613 active users
Herederos Grid: 582 active users
ZetaWorlds: 529 active users
NakedWorldz: 512 active users
Kitely: 511 active users
Astralia: 484 active users
Kishaki: 455 active users

Online marketplaces for OpenSim content

There are currently 20,998 product listings in Kitely Market containing 41,138 product variations, 35,902 of which are exportable.

Kitely Market has delivered orders to 634 OpenSim grids to date.

(Data courtesy Kitely.)

As you can see in the above chart, nearly all the growth in Kitely Market has been in content that can be exported to other grids — that is the green area on the graph. The red area, of non-exportable content, has stayed level for the past eight years.

Last month, the numbers went down a little bit.

“Unfortunately a few stores were disabled because their owners passed away a long time ago and we lost the ability to transfer their sales earnings to them,” Kitely CEO Ilan Tochner told Hypergrid Business. “In most cases, we don’t do this as people’s next of kin take over their accounts and shut them down themselves, or keep those accounts active and update the PayPal payout address in order to enable us to transfer those stores’ earnings to them.”

This is a reminder to all of us to make provisions for our online accounts, especially those that are generating revenues.

The Kitely Market is the largest collection of legal content available in OpenSim. It is accessible to both hypergrid-enabled and closed, private grids. The instructions for how to configure the Kitely Market for closed grids are here.

New grids

No new grids were added to the database in the past 30 days.

If you know of any public grid that we’re missing, please email me at maria@hypergridbusiness.com.

Suspended grids

The following 10 grids were marked as suspended this month: Alterlifes, Bernicia, Dominator, DowGrid, Goldor Grid, GorGrid, Nova Space, The City, Thrae, and Uzuri Virtual.

If they don’t reappear online again soon, they will be marked as closed in future reports.

Sometimes, a grid changes its login URI or website address — if that’s the case, email me and let me know and I’ll update my database.

Top 40 grids by land area

All region counts on this list are, whenever available, in terms of standard region equivalents. Active user counts include hypergrid visitors whenever possible.

Many school, company, or personal grids do not publish their numbers.

The raw data for this month’s report is here. A list of all active grids is here. And here is a list of all the hypergrid-enabled grids and their hypergrid addresses, sorted by popularity. This is very useful if you are creating a hyperport.

You can see all the historical OpenSim statistics here, including polls and surveys, dating all the way back to 2009.

OSgrid: 35,614 regions
Wolf Territories Grid: 30,053 regions
Kitely: 18,156 regions
ZetaWorlds: 13,029 regions
Alternate Metaverse: 10,712 regions
Groovy Verse: 8,783 regions
Virtual Vista Metaverse: 6,173 regions
DigiWorldz: 3,485 regions
CandM World: 2,102 regions
Discovery Grid: 1,618 regions
Tag Grid: 1,465 regions
Friends Grid: 1,168 regions
ArtDestiny: 1,156 regions
Shoalwater Bay: 1,104 regions
GBG World: 961 regions
Virtual Worlds Grid: 914 regions
AviWorlds: 826 regions
Craft World: 730 regions
Kinky Haven: 685 regions
AvatarLife: 595 regions
Littlefield: 515 regions
Neverworld: 374 regions
Furry World: 373 regions
Virtual Worlds Zone: 364 regions
Darkheart’s Playground: 346 regions
Nemesis 3D: 305 regions
EdMondo: 300 regions
Migrating Coconuts: 247 regions
Open Virtual Worlds: 229 regions
MisFitz Grid: 215 regions
Kater and Friends: 202 regions
Japan Open Grid: 199 regions
Counter Earth: 198 regions
Adreans-World: 167 regions
Utopia Skye: 156 regions
XTalent: 145 regions
GerGrid: 141 regions
Logicamp: 124 regions
WestWorld Grid: 121 regions
Magic Grid: 121 regions

Do you know of any other grids that are open to the public but that we don’t have in our database? Email me at maria@hypergridbusiness.com.

Hypergrid Business editor and publisher Maria Korolov is a science fiction novelist. During the day, Maria Korolov is an award-winning freelance technology journalist who covers artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and enterprise virtual reality. See her Amazon author page here and follow her on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn, and check out her latest videos on the Maria Korolov YouTube channel. Email her at maria@hypergridbusiness.com. Her first virtual world novella, Krim Times, made the Amazon best-seller list in its category. Her second novella, The Lost King of Krim, is out now. She is also the publisher of MetaStellar, a new online magazine of speculative fiction.
Latest posts by Maria Korolov (see all)



Source link

Popular Posts

My Favorites