How do we define ‘Centralized to the Metaverse‘? Let’s go.
The term refers to the technologies, designs, and approaches that shift power and control away from centralized authorities to give users ownership over their data and how they create content. The proposed centralized framework is viewed by many as the only way to run Metaverse platforms effectively.
Centralization vs decentralization
Who’s ready for a history lesson? We’re turning back the clock by looking at the World Wide Web in its earliest phase (the 1980s-00s). ‘Web1‘ was initially designed as a highly decentralized network. Individual organizations could grow their online presence before big game players like Google, Apple, Facebook, and Amazon (‘GAFA’) would swoop in and dominate the existing capabilities of open protocols.
And so began a shift that spurred a second era (the mid-2000s) as the need for simplicity and ease of access became apparent. ‘Web2‘ saw GAFA and other for-profit tech companies push for growth in smartphone use. Users naturally drifted from open services to these fully-baked, fresh-out-the-oven centralized services that meant they could enjoy the possibilities of the internet from one small space: their smartphone.
Of course, GAFA’s online presence has placed what were once unimaginably advanced technologies at our fingertips. But with algorithm biases sapping innovation, it became (and still is) much harder for smaller-scale web developers to grow their internet presence, leaving Web2 a narrow, less exciting space.
Worse, to this day we still sacrifice our privacy, security, and data control by using centralized systems for convenience – sometimes without knowing. Ever wonder why you Google search for pictures of ‘cute cats’ and then see pet adoption ads crop up all over your Facebook feed?
We’re not kitten around here! Think about it. We have little choice when selecting platforms for particular uses since the key players are just there – and the only ones available for use. An essential part of Web3 is reversing this model.
Read Also: The 7 Layers of the Metaverse
Web 1, to Web 2, to Web 3: a decentralized space where creators roam free.
The Metaverse will not be built directly by the underlying platforms that enable it. Instead, it’ll be constructed by independent users, developers, and businesses, as a mirror image of the physical world.
Exarta is contributing to the emergence of next-generation internet architecture that helps its participants escape from the control of tech’s biggest corporate giants. We are assisting individuals to become the exclusive owners of their own content, and eventually, the web itself. If Web 2.0 users generate the content, Web 3.0 users will generate the platform, create content and reap its benefits.
The question is, how do we get there?
1) By implementing DAO systems.
A single supreme corporation won’t regulate the Metaverse – it’ll instead be controlled by all of us – under what we call a Decentralized Autonomous Organisation: digital systems that run on the blockchain through smart contracts.
These contracts dictate the rules of a DAO, the decision-making, and how governance unfolds. The Exarta Metaverse will allow users voting rights and control over the project’s direction for a rewarding, fulfilling, community-driven experience.
By becoming a member of the Valayt Council, the future of the City is literally in your hands. From deciding on the terms of any trade or peace agreement with the Anunnaki, to policy-making Valayti city rules and regulations. From organizing the VDF and policing their rights to making decisions on new buildings, facilities and amenities in the area. You can even have your say on which jobs are most in demand and how much players should be paid.
As virtual spaces that allow governance to the people that populate them, DAOS will increase trust in users and give you a sense of financial and psychological ownership over your online activity.
Read Also: Retail’s Road to the Metaverse
2) By creating permissionless environments
A permissionless technology does not require permission to use (huh – go figure?) and most permissionless technologies are decentralized. They go hand in hand. They’re the Mario and Luigi of the internet world. Us users are Princess Peach, just waiting to be freed from the confines of Bowser’s centralized castle.
“Bwah hah hah!“
In a decentralised Web3, we’ll all be sovereign over our identity, assets, and data. You don’t need to ask anyone if you can create a website or web application. Plus, all the choices of software tools, hosting providers, and monetization methods are up to you.
The permissionless Metaverse will be a place where everyone is welcome. A place where you’ll be free to explore your identity. Free to buy, free to create, free to sell. Free to explore new worlds, collect coins, jump on mushrooms, and hang out with friends like Yoshi and Toad… Are we still on that Super Mario analogy?
You get the picture. What we’re trying to say is that in the Metaverse, you can do whatever you please.
3) By providing you with the necessary tools.
The Exarta Creator Hub will provide you with everything you need to create your virtual channel, including your own studio where you can invite your channel members to interact, view, purchase, subscribe, recommend and boost your ratings within the Metaverse.
Won’t there be risks in a permissionless, decentralized ecosystem?
We get it. The Metaverse can sometimes sound too good to be true!
It may feel like there needs to be at least some law of the land, that while monstrous, Bowser-like corporations such as GAFA are controlling, at least we’re all following a general consensus, right? Without anyone setting rules or enforcing ethical codes, how can we know that a permissionless, decentralized Metaverse wouldn’t be an unmoderated, all-hell-breaking-loose place to interact?
In the level playing field of Web3, the power shifts back to us as individual users. Just because the Metaverse ecosystem is permissionless doesn’t mean that the apps within it will be unmoderated. The individual developers decide on the extent of moderation of their creations based on the communities they want to reach.
Read More: What is the Metaverse?
And we’ve got to look at the positives that this freedom will bring. The Metaverse will see an explosion of new creativity in applications, algorithms, artwork, music, AI/robots, virtual worlds, and a whole host of experiences… it’s a melting pot of creative potential! And the best part? The rewards are placed directly in the palms of the creators.
The only possible model
Centralized systems are convenient as we experience them as easy-to-navigate, fully-formed user interfaces. While decentralized systems start a little rougher around the edges. But diamonds are made under pressure, after all! The unique, glistening sparkle of the decentralized approach stems from its aim to win the hearts of those at the core of innovation, as one huge, inclusive, collaborative project.
That’s why this space is far more than just an expansion of the internet as we know it today.
The Metaverse is paving the way to more remarkable societal change as it gives a voice to individuals. Enables new companies to emerge in a secure, creative space. Whether you’re a creator wanting to own your work, or an explorer looking to discover new experiences. While controlling your own data — in the Metaverse, you’re in charge.
At Exarta, we’re pioneering a better future for everyone as we construct infinity. Join us, and have your say. You’re as much a part of this as we are, and the possibilities are, well – limitless.
Written by Hannah Clayton, Exarta.