Metaverse is becoming increasingly popular lately, with many technology companies, including Facebook, starting to invest in it. So, what is Metaverse, and how is it used in e-commerce?
What is Metaverse?
The concept of Metaverse first emerged in the early 1990s. It was first introduced in Neal Stephenson’s novel “Snow Crash.” However, the concept gained prominence, especially when Facebook, founded by Mark Zuckerberg, changed its name to Meta.
The term Metaverse is derived from the combination of “meta” and “universe.” “Meta” means “after” or “beyond,” so Metaverse can be translated as “beyond the universe.” It is a perceptual universe where people mentally experience through augmented virtual reality devices without any physical effort. This universe allows humans to enter an artificial environment using android devices and computers. In essence, the term refers to a collective of online worlds where physical reality and augmented reality merge.
People were already interacting with digital platforms online through WEB 3.0. However, with Metaverse, the nature of human interaction has taken on a completely different dimension. Through Metaverse, people can find themselves in a digital universe through augmented or virtual reality and get lost in this world.
Use of Metaverse in E-commerce
Metaverse enables brands to provide a digital experience for customers. Mark Zuckerberg also does not separate e-commerce from Meta. Bill Gates, the founder of Windows and one of the pioneers in technology, even states that meetings can be held within Metaverse in a few years.
Metaverse is a technology that will help shoppers find what they want easily. Many companies around the world have started to embrace this technology and invest in this area. They are setting up their stores in a digital environment with this technology. Even brands like Nike, Balenciaga, and Charli Cohen are preparing for this technology.
The impact of Metaverse technology, especially in e-export and e-commerce, will be visible. This way, in the future, brands will be able to offer customers a personalized experience beyond traditional shopping. As a result, people can have a shopping experience anytime, anywhere, without having to go to a physical store.
Some brands are already using this technology:
Atasun Optik
With the technology offered on Atasun Optik’s website, you can see how a pair of glasses looks on your face and whether it fits your facial structure before making a purchase.
IKEA
You can see how a piece of furniture you want to buy for your home will look in your home. The 3D versions of products such as sofas, chairs, and tables allow you to move them around in a room to see if they fit.
Amazon
Amazon’s mobile app also features this technology. Users can browse through a menu with different categories such as bedroom, kitchen, electronics, etc. This 3D feature allows them to rotate and move the products.
The future of Metaverse technology goes beyond these examples, as it can be applied in a virtual world. It is essential to remember that Metaverse technology offers a completely new life experience, and it is believed that in the future, this universe could host a billion-dollar e-commerce system.
