The Metaverse is an infinite space with endless possibilities for connection. The only problem is, there’s no one there yet. For the Metaverse to become a tool for the masses and attract more users, it needs to be accessible, affordable, and most importantly, fun. To achieve this, we will have to solve some of the pain points of current technology and calm the current skepticism.

In a world where we begin to see less and less face-to-face connection, the idea of ​​“entering” a virtual universe may heighten fears that technology will take over our livelihoods. While these ideas are valid, the intended purpose of the metaverse is to bring people closer together and improve our daily lives.

The key to unlocking all of this is the human element. We ultimately determine where technology goes, how it is used, and what we are able to achieve with it. Therefore, we need to find a way for technology to enhance, rather than replace, our human interactions.

Obstacles at the door

If the Metaverse is to expand its reach, we must remove some of the barriers to entry that inevitably keep users away. The first is equipment: not everyone has access to a VR headset, AR glasses, or special programs that allow them to participate in virtual worlds. Additionally, many people who might be interested are shut out by having to purchase virtual property or pay to participate.

To bring more people into the Metaverse, access should be allowed from any device — and without a paywall. Our planet is now socially connected, thanks to the ability to access our favorite social apps not only on our computers, but also on our tablets and phones. For the Metaverse to have a chance, it needs to be just as easily accessible. It also needs to be free to enter. Asking someone to pay for something they’re still not sure they want to use is a hard sell. In order to “sell” the public on the Metaverse, they must first be incentivized to join.

From "Ugh" to Better UI/UX

Currently, the virtual world is a clunky cartoon world that makes users feel like they are in a video game like The Sims rather than a real social space. Coupled with its complex navigation, this creates a barrier for non-technical users or older generations who may find it too difficult to navigate.

If we’re going to bring the Metaverse to the masses, we not only need to create a smoother interface that people of any age or technical ability can use, but we also need to invest more resources into making an environment photorealistic and feel natural to be in.

A Forrester study found that a good user interface (UI) can increase a platform’s conversion rate by up to 200%, while better user experience (UX) design can increase conversions by up to 400%. Virtual worlds should be intuitive, adapt to the user’s needs, and look and feel like an extension of our everyday lives. After all, people crave human connection, and the metaverse experience should facilitate that level of connection.

If it's not fun, people won't come.

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the biggest challenge facing the Metaverse is that there aren’t enough people in it. And, frankly, that’s fair — development of the Metaverse is still in its infancy and is primarily geared toward developers or Web3 natives. Not enough people in the real world are immersed in the virtual world, and the reality is that they may feel like outsiders in the current virtual world.

We need to create spaces that help bring people together — spaces that eliminate physical distance between friends, family, and peers so they can connect with each other from anywhere and on any device they choose.

An important factor to consider is FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). We should create virtual world experiences that people feel like they want to be a part of. Whether it’s visiting a metaverse art gallery, attending a virtual concert, or seeing a city from the other side of the world without having to buy a plane ticket, it should be exciting for the end user. Many Metaverse applications are racing to bring a product to the table and often put the cart before the horse. If you build it, people will come. But we have to make sure we build it with enough functionality and engagement that people want to stay.

When will we get there?

Let’s be honest: the virtual world isn’t ready for the masses yet, but that day will come soon enough. In just a few short years, we went from expensive international phone calls and snail mail to being able to connect with anyone, anywhere, through a little computer in our pocket. I truly believe the next iteration of social connection will be through the Metaverse. While every new technology can feel mysterious and scary at times, there’s no need to worry. The Metaverse isn’t going to take over our lives, but it’s going to be used as an incredible tool to connect with others and to experience and enhance our daily lives so that we can build and create together. But for now, let’s get back to building it.