The term ‘metaverse’ is derived from two words: meta and gaming (the word ‘meta’ means ‘in the world beyond our understanding’). In theory, you can look across multiple virtual environments as if the same place has been created for each one, such as in an online game or in real-life interactions. However, unlike individual virtual environments, metaverses can exist in more than one dimension. This includes time, space, and depth, making it possible to take users inside some environments you would otherwise not be able to access. It creates ‘virtual spaces’ that will be accessible only when you have internet access. An example could be on your computer screen, but all objects in the room appear empty but on a different display.

Users start off in one virtual environment, which may be their home, workplace, and so forth. Once users enter a virtual environment, they move through the digital version of it. When interacting with a physical object within a virtual environment, this object may be stationary or moving. Users are able to see objects that are located within a given virtual space. For instance, if user A wants to interact with furniture in his home, he could locate it, walk around it — he may then choose what to do with it. He might then move it, place it somewhere else, or put it away altogether. And if user B wants to see what is in front of him on the kitchen table, he would simply need to walk over there and see what is there for him, without having to physically be present at any point. Some people interact with these objects by placing them in actual spaces. For instance, when looking at your computer screen on your PC, it is physically in front of you, even though it is just on your desk. Other users may go to places (such as a coffee shop) where you would usually not want them to physically be. Their interaction with these things is limited to what they are capable of seeing without actually being there. Some objects that they can physically see include walls, objects on tables and chairs, and so forth. But they are restricted to what they are made to look like in certain environments and situations. As virtual environments become increasingly common, users will find themselves unable to access such objects. Also, as technology continues to advance, virtual environments will become more advanced. While virtual environments are still somewhat primitive, some devices will be capable of sensing the presence of another person. They will also be able to know how long someone has been looking at something on the screen. Virtual environments will become fully autonomous and self-governing. People don’t need to return to a physical location to gain access; rather, they can now enter any virtual environment wherever they are. Each environment will be uniquely customized to the unique needs of its own users. The same is true for spatial locations — the distance between a building and an office building, for example. Even the shape of the city could be completely customized for your needs. So while you and I might use different cities, someone else might use a different city. Someone could live in Amsterdam on top of a mountain!


How does it work?

The difference between the real world and the world created by the virtual world is based on information. That information is stored in a digital data structure. Any given physical entity could be in a virtual world. There are numerous ways to experience virtual world interactions. For users who do not want access to the real world, this could be an alternative way to enter into virtual environments. One way to enter into a virtual environment is through apps you install on your phone, laptop, etc. Or if you already have an Oculus or HTC Vive, you can download OCEA from your device. From those devices, you can move from one virtual environment to another as soon as you get your hands on it. Those environments can be anything, provided they have sufficient virtual real estate. You could be working on a project in your living room and decide to create a window for your personal assistant (AI) robot. You would see your AI robot walk upstairs to a bedroom. Then come back down and walk upstairs again. Maybe you want to tell her that you are late and she is waiting for you, or maybe you want to play a video game in your very own room. If you are lucky, your virtual assistant might be able to give you directions back to where you left off, or make a call for you. On mobile devices, some virtual worlds can be created. Just search up “virtual environment” in Google and you can browse a number of options. Here is an app called Wavi (a virtual environment platform), for Android, which allows you to create a virtual environment for a particular event and display it to your social media friends and family. Others may allow you to turn any surface into something that looks like a real-world object. Another popular choice is XRFactory, which makes virtual environments for various games and VR applications.

The main difference between traditional software and software designed specifically for this kind of environment is that you need to buy and maintain the hardware yourself instead of relying on other developers to make sure everything works. Software built with the right tools can run well on current generation systems. At times, it requires updating and testing. Such system requirements are not required when designing for the virtual world because it is programmed to do everything in the right manner. Therefore, the main expense of developing for the virtual environment is the overall costs associated with creating a system. This includes hiring the right team, building and maintaining the product, and paying bills.

 

What happens when you get sick?

It is important that users get some rest when they get sick since most of them tend to forget to take a break during the day. Unfortunately, most virtual environments are only capable of giving out temporary assistance. Your physical environment will temporarily take care of itself. However, when you have taken enough breaks and get ready for bed, the virtual environment could leave you in peace. Since most mental health symptoms are similar to tiredness and feeling lazy, taking a short nap before going to bed is an effective way to relieve stress. To enhance this effect, we are now getting to use many virtual environments that are specially adapted to help us sleep better. We may have heard horror stories about people dying during the night. With new technologies, like a headband or glasses that allow you to see in augmented three dimensions, you could stay conscious during the day since you won’t need to remember where you are. Many companies are trying to offer solutions to this problem. Headband products exist, for instance, by providing a ‘virtual watch’ that uses your eyes while sitting in front of a computer screen. Or you can wear eyeglasses that let you see in three dimensionality.

The future of the metaverse will likely involve the creation of super-fast holograms, allowing users to view information. The majority of the metaverse being designed is to support virtual experiences and will be built exclusively on cloud computing platforms. Additionally, users will be expected to produce their own avatars in a variety of shapes or sizes. This will provide the flexibility as well as the opportunity for personalized customization to each person. By integrating the power of modern technology with some futuristic developments to design the metaverse, we can hope it becomes a viable part of everyday life.