Will the Metaverse Replace the Internet?

The metaverse is often described as a possible successor to social media or the web. In practice, immersive environments are more likely to become another layer of the internet rather than eliminating every existing format.

Where immersion helps

Three-dimensional environments are valuable when people benefit from presence, spatial scale, shared activity, simulation or exploration.

Where the conventional web remains stronger

Text, search, transactions, quick communication and accessibility are often more efficient through websites and mobile interfaces.

Interconnected services

The most useful future may combine web pages, apps, streaming, social communication and immersive spaces, allowing users to choose the interface suited to each task.

Trust and governance

Privacy, identity, safety, moderation, device access and ownership will shape whether large shared virtual platforms become widely adopted.