The metaverse is struggling to conquer a wide audience, but those who have tried it are becoming invested in these new virtual worlds. — Photography gremlin/Getty Images/AFP Relaxnews
Can the third-generation web – Web 3.0 – completely change our daily behavior and habits? Yes, but only if you've already taken the plunge, it seems. Far from being a reality for the average person, the metaverse has nevertheless won over the few people who have experienced it – so much so that some are invested heavily and permanently in these new worlds. As such, some users seem to have transcended the borders of reality.
Although it's still not very well rooted in the habits of internet users, the metaverse is nevertheless attracting growing interest from brands and users alike. Indeed, it already appears to be fulfilling the expectations of those who have been exploring its infinite possibilities for several months. Such are the findings of new research from HubSpot, which surveyed more than 1,000 individuals in the United States about their views, preferences, and expectations regarding Web3.
The metaverse appeals to the young
While only 8% of respondents claim to have visited the metaverse – including 16% of Generation Z respondents, 15% of Millennials, and only 1% of baby boomers – it appears that these virtual worlds are already shaking up the habits of their advocates. This is perhaps hard to believe, considering that only 40% of all respondents claim to understand the concept of the metaverse. However, those who have tried it seem to have already adopted it, to the point of becoming personally invested in these virtual worlds – or almost.
Indeed, the internet of the future may be winning over the public faster than some predict. In its survey, HubSpot reports that half of the people who have already familiarized themselves with the metaverse have done so in the last three months. And for most, it's not just about being a spectator, checking out this new virtual world, but becoming a full-fledged participant in it, with a genuine level of engagement.
Fostering engagement
In fact, almost two thirds (64%) of respondents who have ever used a metaverse claim to own virtual currency, while 61% own virtual objects, and 55% have land. And it goes even further for those who engage in metaverse-related activities. Six out of ten respondents who have ever done so say that their virtual objects are as important as the ones they own in 'real life,' while 54% feel the same about their virtual and real relationships.
While many examples (already) prove that the metaverse has its darker sides, its users are currently largely positive about it. More than half of users (51%) think that it is easier to be their authentic self in virtual worlds than in real life. Last but not least, 28% of respondents say that the metaverse is an extension of reality, blurring the boundaries between the two worlds. – AFP Relaxnews
