Understanding Metaverse: Snapchat’s Take on the Virtual World

When Snap CEO Evan Spiegel introduced the Pixy, a $229 drone designed for taking selfies, the focus was on experiences rooted in the real world rather than the speculative virtual metaverse.

“The reason we don’t use the word metaverse is because it’s unclear and speculative,” the CEO explained to The Guardian. He emphasized the varied interpretations of the term, stating, “Ask a group of people how to define it, everyone’s definition is completely different.”

Spiegel further noted in a conversation with The Verge’s Alex Heath that, unlike augmented reality with 250 million users engaging on the Snapchat app daily, companies presenting metaverse concepts are “talking about something that doesn’t yet exist.” Snapchat’s AR interactions range from the familiar selfie effects to more advanced shopping experiences.

While the concept of the metaverse is gradually becoming part of our lives, there is a degree of truth in the CEO’s statement.

Despite its increasing integration, the concept remains somewhat unclear and hasn’t fully permeated our daily existence.

Many people are unfamiliar with the term “metaverse.” Consequently, the CEO, who asserts that Snap avoids using this concept, suggests that real-world experiences often hold more allure than the abstract idea of the metaverse. It remains to be seen how this evolving concept will shape our future experiences.

👻 Snapchat: A Brief Overview

Snapchat, developed by Snap Inc., is a popular mobile application known for its ephemeral (disappearing) messaging and pioneering use of Augmented Reality (AR).

Ephemeral Communication: The core concept is that photos and videos, known as “Snaps,” are only available for a brief time before they become inaccessible.

• Chats: Text messages and Snaps sent directly to friends disappear by default after they are viewed or within 24 hours.

• Stories: A chronological collection of Snaps that users can broadcast to all their friends or the public, typically available for 24 hours.
• Camera-First: The app opens directly to the camera screen, emphasizing spontaneous visual communication. Snap Inc. describes itself as a “camera company.”
• Augmented Reality (AR) Lenses: Snapchat pioneered the use of interactive AR filters (Lenses) that overlay 3D animations, effects, and characters onto faces and the real world, creating highly engaging content.
• Discover: A dedicated screen where professional media publishers and brands share curated content and Stories.
• Snap Map: A location-sharing feature that allows users to see where their friends are in real-time (if they opt-in).

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