Whether you’re embarking on a Peloton ride or buying virtual real estate, Mark Zuckerberg says you’ve joined the Metaverse.
In an episode last week, the CEO of Meta said that the evolution of virtual reality will unfold in a similar way to computers and mobile phones: gamers are the first to explore the new technology, followed by ordinary users who want to use it that to socialize.
The metaverse already seems to be transforming beyond that traditional trajectory, Zuckerberg said.
He considers fitness apps like Peloton a third step in the evolution of virtual reality because their technology connects people around the world through physical movement.
While Meta executives have admitted that it could take up to 15 years to fully realize their vision for the Metaverse, elements such as gaming, social media and fitness platforms are already beginning to engage users in virtual worlds.
Zuckerberg credits exercise apps with helping make those — almost physical — experiences a reality.
That’s especially important for Meta, whose goal is to help people connect and communicate online, Zuckerberg said.
This evolution also aligns with Zuckerberg’s vision for the Metaverse.
On repeated occasions, the co-founder of Meta has said that he wants it to become more “immersive” and less distinct from physical reality.