Introduction
Since Facebook’s official rebrand to the term ‘Meta’, there has been much discussion surrounding it. Despite its prevalence in internet language, many are still unfamiliar with terms such as ‘Metaverse’ and ‘Multiverse’, and the differentiation between them is particularly perplexing for engineers.
Every day, new technological innovations are revolutionizing our lives and the world around us. We can now consider the possibility that our own reality could be a simulation, through the concepts of the “metaverse” and the “multiverse”. This opens up the possibility of communication without the need for phones, no matter where one is located.
So, let’s dig in and figure out what the difference is between the metaverse and the multiverse.
In Contrast to the Multiverse, the Metaverse
The term ‘metaverse’ was first used in Neal Stephenson’s 1993 science fiction novel, “Snow Crash”. It is a virtual parallel universe, replicating aspects of the real world online using technologies such as mixed reality, augmented reality, social media, blockchain and more. The metaverse is accessed through the creation of a digital avatar and once inside, users can engage in activities like shopping, playing and living. Whilst it is still in its infancy, many large corporations such as Meta (formerly Facebook), Google, Apple and Microsoft are already investing in technology to influence the metaverse.
Metaverse has been perceived by many as a potential substitute for the internet. At its core, the Metaverse is comprised of a variety of different three-dimensional worlds that render information in real-time. One of the most fascinating elements of the Metaverse is that multiple users may interact with it simultaneously, each with their own individual understanding of the virtual setting (or “virtual life”). All locations and items used are exclusively virtual.
The Metaverse is the first artificially constructed 3D environment, which has been gaining traction since Facebook rebranded as Meta. Businesses have been engaging with this concept, offering a variety of different activities in a virtual reality setting, such as trading Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), visiting virtual museums and playing video games.
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It is evident that the Metaverse has a significant role to play. Let us now consider the second area of disagreement between those who support the Metaverse and those who favor the Multiverse.
Instead of the Metaverse, We Have the Multiverse.
The concept of a multiverse is of great interest from a scientific point of view; however, it is still largely speculative. String theory proposes that all matter is composed of incredibly small, vibrating strings. It explains how various universes could exist, each with their own distinct properties and laws. Software companies are currently in the process of creating a virtual reality platform based on this hypothesis.
Multiverse is a digital platform that enables users to interact with the physical world and each other. Unlike Metaverse, it does not have a unified space; users are restricted to a single action per universe. This means that there are multiple dimensions for different activities and tasks, such as video games, online marketplaces and virtual museums. For example, when playing a 3D game in the Metaverse, users can also go shopping, whereas in the Multiverse, they are unable to access stores or places of employment. Instead, they need to switch between specific universes to carry out their chosen activity.
The term “multiverse” denotes a set of distinct virtual realms or platforms that can be interchanged as necessary. Whilst these worlds are autonomous and ideal in their own right, they do not integrate when compared to the physical world. As a result, they have minimal interaction with the realities of other universes. I believe you now have a good understanding of the second point in our discussion. Let us now differentiate the metaverse from the multiverse.
How Are Metaverses Distinct from Multiverses?
Having now gained an understanding of metaverses and multiverses, we can move onto examining their differences. While they may appear to be similar, there are various essential differences between the Metaverse and the multiverse which add to the ongoing debate.
The concept of the Metaverse suggests the emergence of a shared virtual space in the future. Users can move swiftly between different multiverse projects and ecosystems. However, Multiverse provides a restricted setting created for a particular purpose, meaning that to access a particular feature, users must traverse between ecosystems, which could be inconvenient.
It is clear that there is a fundamental difference between the metaverse and the multiverse. To gain a greater understanding of the distinctions, there are four significant differences that can be identified.
Distinctive Features of the Metaverse and the Multiverse
Ecosystems
The number of ecosystems present in the multiverse compared to the metaverse is an important difference between the two. It is a misconception that both the metaverse and the multiverse contain a large number of separate ecosystems.
The multiverse offers an infinite possibility of distinct ecosystems. It consists of various virtual realms, each with its own character. If you are limited to one world, then you can only engage in video gaming in that universe. However, if you wish to visit a museum, you must journey to another realm.
The Metaverse provides an integrated system for a range of activities, such as gaming, shopping, museum visits and employment. Users can partake in multiple activities simultaneously, with the aid of a computer or augmented reality device to travel between different universes.
When assessing the differences between the metaverse and the multiverse, it is evident that the multiverse consists of multiple distinct ecosystems, while the metaverse comprises a single system.
Linkage Flow
The structure and sequence of the connections between the various components of the multiverse and the metaverse are distinct. Due to the disparities in their respective ecosystems, the structure and dynamics of their interconnections are unique. It is accurate to suggest that both the metaverse and the multiverse contain elements of both randomness and order.
The Metaverse functions as one cohesive ecosystem, necessitating robust connectivity in order to enable the smooth exchange of data between its various components. In contrast, the Multiverse lacks a structured link between its digital realms, with each one being connected to the others in a randomized manner. Consequently, it is characterized by an abundance of disorder.
Ownership Rights and Real Estate in the Cyberworld
Our third comparison focuses on the virtual characteristics of the metaverse and the multiverse. Generally, each virtual world within a multiverse is distinct from the rest. Generally, a single organization or government body holds authority over a particular universe. This entity now has full control of all your possessions and records. That is to say; you can create any data and features you wish in other dimensions, but you cannot access the value you require. You cannot use the coins you have accumulated in one game in another.
At Metaverse, individuals are the sole owners of their digital assets. Through the Metaverse, they are able to trade these assets and data across multiple networks. Primarily, the Metaverse facilitates the buying and selling of NFTs. In summary, the platform offers multiverse ownership of digital property, while the user retains Metaverse ownership.
Entities
The entities and components contained within the multiverse and the metaverse are the defining features which separate them. As a multiverse consists of various distinct realms, each with their own specific characteristics and components, it can prove difficult to identify particular items within them. This makes it hard to ascertain which entity is responsible for the stability of the universes. It is in essence just a collection of numerous planets, nothing more. Entities throughout the universe will have to take into account these planets and their individual qualities.
The metaverse is comprised of a wide range of entities, each with their own unique characteristics. This includes humans, AI, AR, VR, robots, digital avatars and more. The combination of these entities provides a rewarding experience when using the system.
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| CRITERIA | METAVERSE | MULTIVERSE |
|---|---|---|
| DEFINITION | A shared virtual reality that allows user to interact with its surrounding and other users just like the real world. | A hypothetical group of different isolated virtual universes, each with its own unique traits and features. |
| Ecosystems | Only one universe shared by multiple users simultaneously allowing them to interact and connect with different platforms in it. | A hypothetical pool of different individual ecosystems with no interconnectivity. |
| Connectivity Flow | Highly connected in a specific order. Smooth flow of information. | High randomness. No order for flow of information. |
| Virtual Properties And Ownership | User has complete Ownership over his digital properties, experiences and data. | Ownership belongs to the company which owns the multiverse. User cannot access data outside the particular world. |
| Entities | Metaverse has different entitites such as AI, AR, VR, digital avatars, and many more. | Each virtual world is its own entity in the multiverse. |
In conclusion, we have established the main differences between the metaverse and the multiverse. Now, let’s delve further into another significant distinction between them.
Cryptography in the Metaverse vs. The Multiverse
Blockchain-based technologies, including Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) and cryptocurrencies, are being integrated into the coding of decentralized metaverse entities. This platform could benefit from the in-game purchases prevalent in many virtual reality games, by incorporating smart contracts, cryptocurrency, NFTs and similar features into the game itself. This would allow players to use digital money to trade for other items within the metaverse.
The use of in-game currency can be exchanged for valuable in-game items and experiences. Blockchain technology enables users of metaverses to trade digital assets securely and without the need for trust. By leveraging blockchain technology, metaverses – which encompass 3D virtual environments and immersive services – can facilitate permissionless interactions between internet users.
Virtual currency in the Multiverse is similar to its digital counterpart, cryptocurrency. NFT producers can benefit from using a platform or museum in the Multiverse to interact with utility providers and distribute their creations across decentralized apps. Multiverse facilitates communication between companies developing decentralized applications and the consumers using them by utilizing reusable NFTs. When it comes to video games, the concept of a Multiverse is analogous to the physics hypothesis of parallel universes. Quantum mechanics suggests that life could be vastly different in other universes. Similarly, on the Multiverse platform, objects belonging to players can take on new forms and abilities as they transition to a new platform or universe.
To create an authentic gaming world, blockchain technology is essential. It offers users the freedom to take part in a decentralized economy, free from any centralized control. Additionally, the blockchain network is highly secure.
As a result, we found that both the Metaverse and Multiverse crypto systems utilize blockchain technology in different ways. Both are essential for the functioning of the system.
Which Is Better For The Future, The Metaverse Or The Multiverse?
The discourse between the metaverse and the multiverse is ongoing, and it’s worth exploring the key distinction between the two. The metaverse strives to create a virtual future world that connects all people and places. In contrast, the multiverse is composed of distinct ecosystems with their own characteristics. Both projects have distinct approaches yet offer a memorable experience to users.
What does the future hold for the metaverse and the multiverse? There is much speculation about the potential growth of the metaverse in comparison to the multiverse. While there are already a number of multiverses in existence, the metaverse is still in its early stages, so it is not possible to make any definite predictions. More research is needed to draw a clear distinction between the two. Before any conclusions can be made, it is important to ascertain whether the metaverse can function as a cohesive space-time continuum.
It appears that the Metaverse is designed to be a collaborative environment in which many users can take part in a range of activities simultaneously. However, if it is developed by a single organization, it is likely to become a centralized Metaverse that is managed by that company. Technologies such as Blockchain and Web3 could be opposed to this, as it conflicts with their objectives of creating an open and transparent distributed system with decentralized control over the Metaverse.
If the metaverse is to be accessible to all, decentralization is the key. The concept of a multiverse is a hopeful step towards this goal. It is possible that a metaverse may become monopolized by a single entity if it attempts to incorporate too many initiatives into one. The multiverse strategy, however, can help to decentralize the metaverse by bringing together a variety of metaverse initiatives, thus avoiding the need for a centralized authority to oversee operations.
By having multiple organizations responsible for overseeing the different virtual universes, users will be provided with a consistent, high-quality experience. This consolidated experience will significantly increase access to virtual environments.
The internet is set to be revolutionized by the emergence of web3 and blockchain technologies in the near future. To ensure we are ready to move forwards, a decentralized, united metaverse must be established. To achieve this, it is essential to take a multiverse view into consideration.
This raises the possibility of the existence of an ‘omniverse’, a virtual world containing all possible universes. We must consider the advantages of a ‘metaverse’, ‘multiverse’ and ‘omniverse’ when exploring this concept.
Contrast the Metaverse, Multiverse, and Omniverse
It appears that the growing number of new terms is making the situation increasingly complex. You may be wondering where this concept of the Omniverse comes from. I will endeavor to explain the ideas further.
The long-term aim of this digital environment is to create a unified virtual space. To ensure equitable, global governance, we must agree upon a set of rules and regulations. However, this is currently unfeasible.
Currently, there are numerous virtual environments which are incompatible with each other. This raises doubts about the interoperability of metaverses developed by different companies. There may be a variety of factors for this, including monetary considerations and changes in industry regulations. Nevertheless, organizations such as Microsoft, Nvidia, and Unity are striving to make interoperability between metaverses a reality. For example, Nvidia’s Omniverse approach is an example of this effort, although it is primarily designed to benefit businesses rather than consumers.
The omniverse is a single reality in which all metaverses and multiverses exist, each with varying degrees of connectivity to one another.
A metaverse forms the basis for a network of individual projects whose purpose is ultimately determined by the architecture of the metaverse. As a result, there are numerous metaverses, each possessing its own distinct features, user interface, and complexity level.
At the intermediate level, metaverses will be organized into groups based on their operations and requirements. Through this, multiple multiverses may be established, each with a specific purpose. For instance, a multiverse dedicated to gaming and entertainment may contain metaverses dedicated to different types of video games and social networking sites. Alternatively, one might be created to provide a comprehensive range of activities, such as shopping and entertainment.
By implementing this, we can create a digital environment where all technologies collaborate and abide by the same regulations. This will improve data security and make it simpler for users to access and use the resources.
Finally, the omniverse will be created, combining all possible multiverses and metaverses. To ensure standardization and smooth running, rules will be implemented to regulate the digital world and guarantee effective management. This will pave the way for decentralization and interoperability, as well as assist in determining which universes require linking. It is important to note that not all user-based multiverses are necessary for business purposes.
Conclusion
When considering the future, what do you envisage it to be like? Comparing the metaverse to the multiverse, we can see a potential future of a virtual universe interconnected in some manner. The multiverse allows for the possibility of multiple virtual ecosystems existing concurrently. Additionally, an omniverse, incorporating several multiverses and metaverses into a single realm with its own laws, is also a possibility.
It is currently unknown how long it will take for these aspirations to become a reality. Various companies are currently making efforts to establish their own online presence; for instance, game development firms such as Unity and Epic, social media platform providers like Meta, and companies such as Nvidia which work to bridge industries.
It is essential to have high-quality interoperability if we are to create a unified digital environment. To achieve a sustainable online ecosystem, this is an absolute necessity. To realize the aspiration of a connected virtual universe, the entities involved in the Metaverse, Multiverse and Omniverse must find a way to connect their distinct spaces and work together.
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