It’s been more than a year since Facebook first announced its “Horizon Worlds,” the company’s new virtual reality platform. And while some may be feeling like it’s taking forever for this idea to come to fruition, we’re finally starting to get a clearer picture of what these worlds will look like.
The latest announcement from Meta (formerly known as Facebook) offers us our best glimpse yet into what this world will entail and how people can interact with it. So far, the company has only opened up Horizon Worlds to beta testers and select partners – but now, anyone in America is allowed access without an invitation.
What is Metaverse?
Simply put, the metaverse is a vision for an internet you can be inside of. This could include anything from learning in VR to meditating under (virtual) Mount Everest. It’s a place where people can come together and interact in ways that we’ve never been able to before.
Meta has been positioning its “Horizon Worlds” as a key building block in the development of this metaverse since 2019.
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What Can You Expect From Horizon Worlds?
Right now, we know that Horizon Worlds will allow users to create customizable avatars and interact with each other in VR. There are already thousands of worlds built by beta testers and select partners, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.
In addition, Meta has said that users will be able to “experience the freedom of flight.” This could mean anything from soaring through the sky to swimming with dolphins.
1. Gaming:
One of the main activities that people are expected to do in Horizon Worlds is play games. There are already a number of different games available, and more are sure to be released in the future. Gaming leaders like Fortnite and Minecraft are already integrating cross-platform multiplayer, which could mean that users might be able to meet up in Horizon Worlds and play together.
2. Remote working:
With the ability to create your own avatar, Horizon Worlds could also be a great platform for remote working. You could have virtual meetings with coworkers, or even take part in training sessions without ever having to leave your home.
3. Socialize:
You will be able to meet with other users in Horizon Worlds and socialize. You can even host events with people from all over the world – whether that’s a party or a business meeting, you’ll be able to create any sort of experience that strikes your fancy!
4. Shopping:
With VR you will be able to explore different stores and buy items without ever having to leave your home. You could even try on clothes to see if they look good before you make a purchase!
5. Experience the future:
You can travel on a virtual yacht, visit the pyramids, and much more. You can also explore different worlds that have been built by other users. There’s no limit to what you can do in Horizon Worlds, so it’s the perfect place to experience all the possibilities of the future.
What Will You Need?
To access this virtual world, you’ll need the Oculus headset (which costs about $300). This is one of the best features I’ve seen from Facebook/Meta so far – they are really doing their best to make sure that anyone who wants to can experience this world.
Key takeaways:
The metaverse is the future of the internet, and Meta is one of the companies leading the way. From gaming to socializing to shopping, there are a number of different activities that you can do in Horizon Worlds. CEO of Meta Mark Zuckerberg says that VR is the future of communication and has plans to reach out to 1 billion people before 2030. It will not only change the way we interact with one another but also create thousands of job opportunities.
