Dadi Gadot, manager of the Reality Labs division at Meta in Tel Aviv, believes that virtual reality (VR) is an inevitability that will revolutionize how we interact with others globally. Gadot, who is also one of the founders of Magic Leap, a company that designs VR sets, works on the Metaverse, a 3D internet environment that is intended to eventually replace our current 2D computer and phone screens.
What is the Metaverse?
The Metaverse, or Meta’s “Presence Platform,” is a 3D internet environment that allows users to feel as though they are in the same physical space as someone on the other side of the world. This enables them to engage in activities like virtual golf or attend long distance workout routines. Meta is already selling these long distance workout routines for its VR headset, called Quest, which allows users to feel as though their instructor is in the same room with them.
What is the difference between AR, MR, and VR?
AR, or augmented reality, refers to transparent headsets that allow users to interact with both people nearby and those far away. MR, or mixed reality, refers to headsets that have cameras and sensors that interpret the world around the user as well as their facial expressions. VR, or virtual reality, refers to headsets that provide a 360-degree field of view of a virtual world. While VR headsets will still have value and applications, AR glasses are expected to offer a more seamless and natural experience.
What is the current state of the Metaverse?
The Metaverse is still in its early stages of development, but companies like Meta and Sony are investing heavily in VR and AR technology. Meta has sold almost 14 million VR headsets and hopes that they will eventually replace smartphones in the coming years. Sony has also announced plans to release the next-generation PlayStation VR2 headset for $550 in early 2023.
The Future Looks Bright!
Israel is expected to play a major role in the development of the Metaverse and the VR industry as a whole. Meta has offices around the world, including in Tel Aviv, where it is working on technology for the Metaverse. The company has identified content creators in the Metaverse as the primary target audience for its products, and it is selling long distance workout routines for its VR headset, Quest. While VR headsets will still have value and applications, AR glasses are expected to offer a more seamless and natural experience in the future.
