An expert explains what the metaverse is, how virtual worlds and augmented reality work.

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Metaverses are becoming the subject of TV series, and artists are creating digital sculptures using virtual tools and VR glasses. New objects are appearing on the streets that can only be viewed through mobile devices. We spoke with Ivan Puzyrev, a researcher and creator of metaworlds, to discuss this promising direction in digital art and technology.

In this interview, you will gain valuable information about:

• can metaworlds and the Internet be compared;
• what is the appeal of metaverses for a designer;
• why was it necessary to build a digital city for the festival;
• what metaverses take from real life;
• will humans ever move into metaspace?

Digital strategist, expert in augmented and virtual reality, co-founder of the metaverse ecosystem and the Arhead.io platform. Developed an AR/VR digital strategy for Strelka KB and participated in the creation of metaspaces for Rosbank and Hutton. My experience covers a wide range of projects in the field of new technologies, which allows me to successfully integrate modern approaches into business strategies and create unique user experiences.

I started working with virtual and augmented reality because of their enormous potential in various fields. These technologies open up new horizons for education, entertainment, and business. I was impressed by how VR and AR can create unique user experiences and improve interaction with information. I became intrigued by how these technologies can change the approach to learning and skills development, as well as provide new opportunities for the creative industries. Working with VR and AR, I strive to contribute to the development of these innovative solutions and help others maximize their potential.

Ten years ago, I began my studies at the Faculty of Engineering Economics and participated in an educational course in Barcelona. It was there that I first encountered the concept of augmented reality. This discovery was a key moment for me: if all the objects around us are three-dimensional, then why are the interfaces we use flat? The question of how to make interaction with technology more natural and intuitive became key for me.

Over the course of several months of study, I radically changed my perception of media communication. I came to the realization that augmented reality is the next round in the development of media channels and communications of the future. First, humanity discovered radio, then television and the internet. Now, information will likely no longer be static on a screen and will begin to integrate into our space. I began studying augmented and virtual reality with the understanding that this is a new stage in the evolution of the media that preceded them. It is important to recognize that augmented reality technologies can change not only the way information is transmitted but also our perception of the world.

The user experience with virtual reality (VR) differs significantly from the real world. Firstly, VR provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in created digital environments that can be completely different from our everyday life. Virtual worlds can be fantastical or simulate real-world locations, but they always remain under the control of programming and design.

Secondly, in VR, the user can interact with objects and characters using specialized devices, such as VR headsets and controllers. This interaction is often more intuitive and immediate than in real life, where physical limitations can restrict actions. However, despite this, VR cannot fully reproduce all the sensations we experience in reality, such as touch or smell.

Thirdly, the perception of time and space in virtual reality may differ from the real world. Users may lose the sense of time while in VR, which can lead to long sessions. In addition, space in virtual reality can be expanded or compressed, which affects the way you interact with the environment.

It is also worth noting that some social aspects of the real world are absent in VR. Communication occurs through avatars and text chats, which can limit the emotional connection between people. However, technology continues to evolve, and in the future, interactions in virtual reality may become more realistic.

Thus, the user's experience with VR is unique and has its own characteristics that distinguish it from the real world.

The laws of physics are absent in virtual worlds. The creators of these worlds have the ability to manipulate physical laws at their own discretion, which is fundamentally different from our interaction with real reality. Virtual spaces allow for the realization of any ideas and concepts, offering endless opportunities for creativity and experimentation. Thus, virtual worlds open up new horizons for self-expression and innovation, allowing users to create unique and unrepeatable environments.

The metaverse is often compared to the internet, representing a kind of "three-dimensional internet." This is a new stage in our interaction, returning us to more familiar forms of communication, but in a digital format. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies serve as key tools for accessing this three-dimensional space. Despite its digital nature, the metaverse is intuitive to our perception, and we know how to interact with it effectively.

Metaverses and virtual reality are not just means of escaping reality, but important tools for expanding our perception of the world. The idea of ​​phygital, that is, the integration of digital and physical space, is becoming increasingly relevant. In my professional environment, systems are actively being developed that provide instant access to information and the ability to communicate in a three-dimensional environment. These technologies not only improve interaction but also transform our understanding of reality, creating new opportunities for learning, working, and social activity.

The metaverse is a virtual space that unites the physical and digital worlds. It is a concept where users can interact with each other and with the environment through avatars in real time. The metaverse incorporates elements of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and blockchain, providing a unique experience for communication, work, and entertainment. In this environment, users can create content, learn, spend time with friends, and even conduct business. The metaverse is becoming increasingly accessible thanks to advances in technology, and its impact on society and the economy continues to grow.

When we ask what the internet is, the answer will vary depending on the person we're talking to. A website developer might describe it as a platform for creating and sharing content, while a cable engineer might see it as a global network of physical infrastructure. The internet can also be viewed as a gigantic planetary organism, spanning the entire Earth and not owned by any single company or individual. This universal resource allows us to interact, exchange information, and communicate in real time, making it an integral part of our daily lives.

The metaverse is a unique environment that provides a collaborative and three-dimensional experience for users. The main difference of the metaverse is its interactivity and the ability to interact with each other. Blockchain is often mentioned in discussions about metaverses, although it is not a required element. However, these two concepts are often interconnected, as blockchain provides the necessary tools to validate the value of new digital assets.

We have our own company and are dedicated to providing high-quality services in our field. Our team of professionals works on projects aimed at satisfying client needs and achieving their business goals. We focus on innovative solutions and continuous improvement to ensure maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Our products and services are focused on creating value for clients and helping them grow their businesses.

The Arhead.io startup is a metaverse focused on creators and brands. Each user can register and create their own virtual world, invite friends, spend time in it, try on digital clothes, organize exhibitions, communicate, and even develop games. For user convenience, this 3D environment can be integrated with the brand's own website for an additional fee. This allows site visitors to enjoy the same features, but in a familiar online environment. Arhead.io opens new horizons for interaction between users and brands in the digital space.

The platform provides businesses and creators with the opportunity to create unique virtual worlds and promote them under their own brand. This allows for user acquisition and effective monetization of digital assets. This platform can be considered similar to Tilda or Wix, but with a focus on the development and integration of metaverses.

Technology becomes obsolete over time, and this raises the question of the finite lifespan of a created metaverse. As new technologies develop and consumer preferences change, metaverses may become less relevant. This means their lifespan may be limited, requiring developers to continually update and adapt their platforms to remain competitive and meet user needs. Thus, the longevity of a metaverse becomes an important aspect to consider when creating and developing it.

A key aspect of a metaverse's functioning is the interoperability of formats. This term implies universality, but in our environment, the word "interoperability" is preferable. For example, the JPEG format is interoperable because it can be used in a variety of applications: uploaded as a Facebook avatar, sent via WhatsApp or Telegram, and even printed. We don't worry about technical details, because the format just works. Interoperability between formats plays a critical role in ensuring seamless interaction between various platforms and devices in the metaverse, which, in turn, facilitates its development and popularization.

Designers considering working with metaverses should pay attention not only to technologies and access methods but also to standards that ensure compatibility across platforms and devices. Currently, two key formats stand out: the widely used GLB format and the USD format, developed by Pixar in collaboration with Apple. These formats are often used together, making them essential for the successful creation and integration of content in metaverses.

You can download this art object to your phone.

If someone has created a digital object using one of the NFT standards and wants to list it on an NFT marketplace, this is possible. This object will also be compatible with augmented reality (AR) technologies without the need for a special app, as well as with metaverses. In the future, such files should be compatible with mixed reality glasses, which may appear, for example, with the release of Apple products.

I am confident that my JPEG file will be openable in ten years and will remain commercially in demand and supported. Therefore, when it comes to the metaverse, it is important to create content that will be durable and ensure accessibility in the future. This will allow users and collectors to interact with digital assets over time. Creating stable and accessible objects in the metaverse is key to a successful experience for all participants.

Technical means of entering metaworlds play a key role in ensuring full user immersion in virtual spaces. Modern devices, such as VR glasses, augmented reality headsets, and specialized controllers, create unique experiences with digital worlds. These technologies provide high-quality graphics and sound, significantly enhancing the perception of content. Furthermore, the use of powerful computers and gaming consoles further enhances the effect of presence, allowing users to explore metaworlds with the highest level of detail. It is also important to note that the software supporting these devices must be optimized to ensure stable operation and minimize latency. Therefore, the correct choice of technical means is a prerequisite for successfully exploring metaworlds and obtaining a unique experience with them.

A digital space, or digital layer, does not always require the use of VR glasses for access. When it comes to a collective and three-dimensional experience, it can be argued that we are dealing with a form of metaverse. The metaverse represents the integration of various digital elements, allowing users to interact in virtual worlds that transcend traditional notions of physical space. In this context, accessibility and diversity of interactions with this layer are crucial, opening up new horizons for social, educational, and commercial opportunities. There are many ways to access virtual spaces. I can use a flat-screen device to interact with content, experience augmented reality, or wear VR goggles for full immersion in a virtual environment. Each of these solutions offers unique capabilities and experiences, allowing users to explore and interact with digital worlds.

The metaverse is a trendy and promising space for designers, opening up unique opportunities for creativity and self-expression. The appeal of the metaverse for designers lies in the ability to create interactive and immersive worlds that can be used in a variety of fields, including games, virtual exhibitions, and social platforms.

Designers can experiment with new shapes, colors, and textures, interacting with users in real time. This creates a unique experience that cannot be replicated in traditional media. Furthermore, the metaverse allows designers to work with 3D models and animations, significantly expanding their capabilities in visual content creation.

With the growing popularity of virtual spaces, designers can also find new sources of income by selling their work as NFTs or providing virtual object creation services. Thus, the metaverse opens the door to an innovative approach to design and offers designers unique opportunities for professional growth and expanding their audience.

In today's world, when it is necessary to convey large amounts of information, we actively use electronic means of communication. In the future, perhaps in 30 years, we will be able to transmit data using chips implanted in the brain, allowing information to be sent directly from one head to another. However, there is still a long way to go before technology reaches this level.

Over the past ten years, I have not found an answer to the question of what happens to information when it exceeds the storage capacity of a device and becomes too voluminous to perceive. If the screen becomes crowded, and it is still too early to consciously perceive it, where does it go? In this context, there are only two options: the information will either be available in front of me, or I will find myself immersed in it. It is important to be aware of how information management affects our perception and decision-making in the modern world.

Designers interested in 3D UX and UI should consider the metaverse. The industry is currently experiencing a significant shortage of specialists who understand interaction in a three-dimensional environment. It is important to understand that the difference between simply pressing a finger on a screen and touching a digital object in space fundamentally changes the approach to design. This new direction requires unique skills and knowledge that are not taught in traditional educational institutions. Developing interfaces for the metaverse opens new horizons for creative solutions, and designers who are ready to master these concepts will have a significant advantage in the job market.

Designers seeking new opportunities and eager to immerse themselves in a promising field invite you to the world of the metaverse. This space opens unique horizons for creative expression and innovative thinking. Join a community of professionals shaping the future of digital art and interaction. Your ideas can become the basis for new projects in the metaverse, where technology and design intersect to create exciting and interactive experiences.

The Rosbank Future Cities Festival is a unique event dedicated to innovation and sustainable development of future cities. The festival will discuss current topics such as smart technologies, ecology, and a comfortable urban environment. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge solutions in urban infrastructure, as well as participate in master classes and discussions with experts. The festival fosters the exchange of ideas and inspires the creation of more sustainable and technologically advanced cities that meet the needs of modern society.

The pandemic and other global events continue to impact freedom of movement and access to new experiences. While physical restrictions are becoming an obstacle for many, the metaverse offers unique opportunities. Here, borders are absent, and anyone can connect from anywhere in the world. This allows people to learn about festivals, receive information, and enjoy three-dimensional works of art in their entirety. The metaverse opens new horizons for interaction and cultural exchange, making art and events accessible to everyone.

Last year, the program focused on augmented reality, allowing people to observe art objects in their own cities. This year, the emphasis is on ecology in digital art and interaction with the urban environment. We strive to ensure that as many people as possible have access to the concept that digital art is as important as physical art.

Together with the VCA agency, we developed a virtual city. In today's digital landscape, users are faced with a multitude of landing pages, pages, and videos that often go unnoticed. However, offering them a unique virtual world experience and the opportunity to explore it with friends takes engagement to a whole new level. Creating such an experience allows you to attract attention and retain user interest, which is key in modern marketing.

For most festival-goers, this was their first experience with the metaverse, and many had no idea how it worked. Using arrow keys to move or rotating the camera with a mouse was a real revelation for them. These new impressions enrich the overall perception of the festival and turn into a unique experience that you want to share and discuss.

London Fashion Week, as well as virtual presentations of brands Gucci and Balenciaga, demonstrate how the fashion industry is actively implementing new technologies. With the rapid development of the metaverse, many experts argue that digital fashion and virtual shows have enormous potential. The opportunities provided by the metaverse allow brands to experiment with creativity, expand their audience reach, and create unique user experiences. Which direction in this digital reality do you consider the most promising for the fashion industry?

Currently, clear and basic concepts are being implemented in the metaverse, which is a natural stage of its development. When it comes to exhibitions in the metaverse, the main goal is the ability to view them. Similarly, in games, the emphasis is on the gameplay. These familiar formats are adapting to a new virtual space. In addition, educational programs are gradually being integrated into the metaverse, creating unique learning opportunities. I love how the learning process is enriched by new experiences and interactions in a virtual environment.

Currently, the metaverse is actively developing through art, exhibitions, entertainment, and brand presentations. We strive to identify its unique characteristics and recognize its radical differences from the traditional internet. It is important to understand what experiences are becoming unique and what can be realized differently than before. All aspects of our lives are gradually moving into the metaverse, whether in a distorted or direct form. This opens up new possibilities for interaction and self-expression in the digital world.

There are many interesting and innovative developments in the fields of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and metaverses. It's important to highlight a few key projects that deserve attention.

One of the most well-known projects is Oculus Quest, which offers users the opportunity to immerse themselves in immersive VR games and apps. This platform provides access to a wide range of content, including entertainment, educational programs, and social interactions.

Also worth noting is the Microsoft Mesh project, which unites users in collaborative virtual spaces. This platform enables meetings, collaboration, and communication in AR, opening up new horizons for work and interaction.

Equally interesting is the Decentraland project, which is a decentralized virtual reality where users can create, explore, and monetize their own virtual lands. This is a great opportunity for artists, developers, and entrepreneurs.

Furthermore, Fortnite continues to evolve towards the metaverse, offering users unique events, concerts, and cross-platform interactions, making it a significant player in this field.

These projects demonstrate the potential of VR, AR, and metaverses, opening up new opportunities for interaction and creativity in the digital space.

I recommend paying attention to Keiichi Matsuda. In his videos, such as "Hyper-Reality," he clearly demonstrates what a digital layer superimposed on the urban landscape might look like. Furthermore, through his manifestos, he draws interesting analogies, including ideas of animism. This is a bold and alternative view of the structure of the surrounding world, where the design concept is intertwined with philosophical reflections. Such projects attract attention and generate interest.

Modern technological changes facilitate the formation of multidisciplinary teams. When different perspectives, including those of designers and philosophers, are brought together in a project, it can lead to unexpected discoveries and significant achievements. Such dialogues become key moments in the development of a project, as was the case with Matsuda. The synergy of different fields of knowledge enriches the process and enhances the quality of the end result.

The Hermitage recently unveiled an impressive VR project called "Invisible Ether." I highlight it not only because I participated in its creation, but also because it is one of the best exhibitions in virtual space I have ever seen. The project's curators masterfully explored the NFT art phenomenon from a unique perspective I hadn't encountered before. This project has become one of my favorites thanks to its innovative approach and high-quality execution.

Metaspace, as a concept, raises many questions about the future of humanity and its possibilities. Human movement into metaspace is a topic of discussion not only in science fiction, but also in modern scientific research. Although today's technology does not allow physical movement into metaspace, research in the field of virtual reality and augmented reality shows that we are on the way to creating new forms of interaction with digital worlds. The question of whether a person will be able to fully integrate into metaspace remains open and requires further study. As technology develops and our understanding of the nature of reality deepens, perhaps in the future we will see new ways of human existence in metaspace.

The metaverse is perceived not as a separate world, but as an extension of our physical space. It exists here and now, overlapping with the reality we live in. We navigate this digital space using our devices, which interact with a virtual version of the world around us. Thus, the metaverse becomes an integral part of our daily lives, providing new opportunities for interaction and perception.

You can download this art object to your phone. This will allow you to always have access to a unique work of art that will decorate your mobile screen. Don't miss the opportunity to add a stylish element to your device that will delight you every day.

Metaverses and phygital represent a unique combination of two worlds, creating a safe and inevitable interaction. Dystopian films like Black Mirror paint dark pictures of an advertising-overloaded and chaotic digital space. However, we have the opportunity to reimagine this reality. We must determine what the created digital layer will become. This is a challenge not only for company founders but also for users, who actively participate in shaping the future.

Our attitudes toward digital data and advertising, as well as our interest in new media channels, are in our control. The reaction of the audience who turned away from Facebook due to the exploitation of user data confirms this. This phenomenon demonstrates that users understand the importance of protecting their data and are willing to seek alternatives. Despite the efforts of 30,000 engineers at Meta working on creating the metaverse, the launch of a successful metaverse remains in question. This underscores the importance of trust and transparency in the digital space.

We are currently witnessing the emergence of a new format, in whose development we are all participating. Although it is difficult to predict its scenario, it is clear that this moment is significant and requires attention. We are on the threshold of changes that can impact many areas of life. The participation of each of us in this process can be key to shaping the future.

A court has ruled to ban Meta Platforms Inc. from operating in Russia, related to the implementation of the social networks Facebook and Instagram. The ban is based on accusations of extremist activity. This decision affects user access to these platforms in the Russian Federation and emphasizes the importance of complying with legislation in the field of information technology and social media.

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