**Current Usage:**
The metaverse, a collective virtual shared space created by the convergence of virtually enhanced physical reality and physically persistent virtual reality, has been a topic of immense interest in recent times.
But how many people currently use this digital world?
Let’s delve into some numbers.
According to a report by Grayscale Investments, as of Q2 2021, the daily active users (DAUs) of metaverse platforms reached approximately 3 million. This figure includes users from various popular platforms like Facebook Horizon, Epic Games’ Fortnite Island, and Decentraland. However, it is essential to note that these are only the DAUs and do not include occasional or passive users.
**Implications for Growth:**
The metaverse market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. MarketsandMarkets projects the global metaverse market size to reach USD 1,527.8 billion by 2027, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 43.6% during the forecast period. Let’s examine some potential reasons driving this growth.
**Growing Adoption:**
The increasing popularity of virtual events and work-from-home culture due to the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated metaverse adoption. Companies like Facebook, Microsoft, and Epic Games have announced their plans to invest billions in building metaverses, further fueling growth.
**Expanded Use Cases:**
The metaverse is not just limited to gaming anymore. It’s transforming into a space for education, socializing, shopping, and even owning virtual real estate. For instance, universities like MIT have started offering metaverse-based courses, while brands like Nike have entered the metaverse to sell virtual merchandise.
**Virtual Economy:**
The emergence of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and decentralized finance (DeFi) in the metaverse has given rise to a new digital economy. Users can buy, sell, and trade assets within these virtual worlds, creating a lucrative business model.
**Conclusion:**
In conclusion, while it’s challenging to pinpoint an exact number for the total user base of the metaverse due to its fragmented nature, current estimates place it around 3 million DAUs. With growing adoption, expanding use cases, and the emergence of a virtual economy, the metaverse is set to revolutionize our digital lives in ways unimagined.