Web3 vs Metaverse: Are They The Same Thing?
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The concepts of Web3 and Metaverse are often mentioned together. Numerous similarities are the cause behind that. Yet, are they in fact the same thing? Or, perhaps, they are mutually beneficial, though different? In this article, we will focus on this issue. Web3 vs. Metaverse: different or alike? Learn that below.
What is Web3 vs. What is The Metaverse
We will begin our discussion of the differences between Web3 and the Metaverse by defining each of these two concepts.
Web3, also known as Web 3.0, is the idea of a fully decentralized World Wide Web. Currently, the technology that the internet is based on uses a client-server architecture, where a central server acts as the access point for the users. Web 3.0 is a concept crafted with leaving this scheme behind in mind, and using blockchain technology as an alternative. This could potentially lead to higher security and enhanced data ownership of those surfing the web.
Metaverse, on the other hand, is a set of virtual words. It contains different virtual environments, accessible through VR or AR. The history of the Metaverse proves that it is more of a platform, rather than a technological solution. It may be used for various purposes and the NFTs used in it are in line with the concept of data ownership, yet it is no more than a setting for the technologies to be used.
The Difference between Metaverse and Web3
Proceeding to this discussion’s main topic, let us look at the differences between the Metaverse and Web3.
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System type
- Web3: Decentralized.
- Metaverse: Decentralized.
Data Ownership
- Web3: Through blockchain technology.
- Metaverse: Through metaverse NFTs.
Objectives
- Web3: Provide a more democratic, user-oriented version of the internet.
- Metaverse: Provide the users with access to virtual reality.
Approach to Ownership
- Web3: Keep it away from monopolization by the tech giants.
- Metaverse: Sell virtual properties to anyone, including large corporations.
Applications
- Web3: Anything that can be currently done with Web2.
- Metaverse: Mostly gaming and social media, though other uses may be found.
User Experience
- Web3: Trust and transparency.
- Metaverse: Immersion into virtual reality.
Scalability:
- Web3: The blockchain trilemma – the same level of attention must be paid to decentralization, scalability, and security.
- Metaverse: Lack of sufficient technology – the networking infrastructure requires a major upgrade.
Is Web3 the Metaverse?
The answer to this question is simple – it is not. However, the fact that the Metaverse and Web 3.0 are two separate entities does not mean that they cannot intertwine.
The Metaverse often uses the solutions that come with Web3 and is likely to draw from it even further. In the future, the Metaverse identity will most likely be secured with the technologies designed for Web 3.0. The digital goods, NFTs, will be obtained through the blockchain system to ensure the users’ true ownership of them. The control over the Metaverse worlds will be in the hands of the users.
An example of this cooperation may already be observed in Decentraland – a virtual world on the Metaverse platform. It is based fully on blockchain technology, allowing the users to securely trade their virtual goods and use them to shape this virtual world.
However, the integration of the Metaverse and Web3 also faces numerous challenges. Whether these two entities will remain compatible in the future remains to be seen. With the rapid development of both, their track may branch, and it might become impossible to use them to the fullest extent simultaneously.
Another potential issue is accessibility. Newer technologies require better internet connection, still unavailable in different corners of the world. Thus, this might hinder the development of Web3 or Metaverse, slow it down significantly, or make the World Wide Web less accessible for many.
Web3 vs. Metaverse Conclusions
Is Web3 the Metaverse? It is not. However, both of these may work together to create a more secure, immersive, and trustworthy visual environment. It remains to be seen how this cooperation will end, yet it is a direction worth following closely.
If you are concerned with the development of the Metaverse, read our other article: Why We Should Approach The Metaverse With Caution
What is Web3?
Web3, also known as Web 3.0, is the concept of a fully decentralized World Wide Web. It aims to move away from the current client-server architecture of the internet and utilizes blockchain technology to enhance security and data ownership for users.
What is the Metaverse?
The Metaverse is a collection of virtual worlds, accessible through VR or AR, designed as a platform for various purposes. It’s not a technological solution but a setting for technologies to be used, often involving NFTs for data ownership.
Is Web3 the same as the Metaverse?
Web3 and the Metaverse are distinct entities. However, they often collaborate, with the Metaverse adopting solutions from Web3.
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Author: Rafał Siejca
Rafal has over twenty years of corporate experience, including roles at Millennium Bank, Comarch, and leading software teams at PZU, one of Europe’s largest insurance companies.As one of Poland’s few true VR experts with a decade of experience, he ensures timely, high-quality project delivery as CEO and CTO.
