WedNewsFlash ⚡ Neal Stephenson’s Blockchain Vision and the Metaverse’s Pulse

© Neal Stephenson @ TechCrunch

The metaverse, a term popularized by Neal Stephenson in his 1992 book “Snow Crash,” has been a buzzword for the past few years. But is its momentum slowing down? Let’s dive into this week’s WedNewsFlash and find out!

1. The Metaverse’s Current Pulse

According to Google Trends, the metaverse’s search interest has seen a decline in 2023 compared to its zenith in 2021 and 2022. This has led some to believe that the metaverse boom might be fizzling out. However, many remain undeterred and continue to innovate and build within this space.

2. Neal Stephenson’s Blockchain Initiative: Lamina1

Despite the perceived waning interest, Stephenson’s blockchain project, Lamina1, is forging ahead. They’ve announced the upcoming Open Metaverse Discovery Month set for October. This event promises to equip builders and creators with the knowledge and tools they need to explore metaverse experiences through seminars, shared quests, and bounties.

3. Empowering Developers and Creators ️

Lamina1 isn’t just about discussions; they’re about action. This month, they’ll co-host two interactive workshops tailored for Unity and Unreal Engine developers. Additionally, two Creator Competitions are on the horizon, offering participants a chance to showcase their artwork and experiences on the Lamina1 Hub website.

4. The Metaverse: Beyond Virtual Realities

Rebecca Barkin, CEO of Lamina1, remains bullish about the metaverse’s future. Despite the challenges, including the crypto winter, Lamina1 has attracted nearly 50,000 builders since its inception. Barkin emphasizes that the metaverse’s essence isn’t just about creating virtual spaces. It’s a stand against “corporate greed and control.” In her words, it’s about empowering creators across various sectors “to build, create, and distribute these worlds on their own.”

5. Wrapping Up

The metaverse might be evolving, but it’s far from extinct. As technology advances, so does the potential for more immersive and decentralized digital experiences. Stay tuned for more updates in our next edition of WedNewsFlash!

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