The Daily

Microsoft and the Metaverse

Jan 20, 2022
Kevin Roose, a technology columnist for The New York Times, dives into Microsoft's game-changing $70 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard. He explores how this monumental deal positions Microsoft in the metaverse landscape. The discussion also unpacks the evolving concept of the metaverse, from science fiction roots to real-world implications. Roose raises critical questions about corporate influence, the potential for an immersive utopia, and the risks of a dystopian reality, making this a fascinating look at our digital future.
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ANECDOTE

Fortnite as Proto-Metaverse

  • Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, believes Fortnite is more than a game.
  • He sees it as an early version of the metaverse, offering social spaces and virtual concerts.
INSIGHT

Metaverse Gold Rush

  • The term "metaverse" gained significant traction after Mark Zuckerberg renamed Facebook to Meta.
  • This sparked a "gold rush" among tech companies eager to establish their presence in the metaverse.
INSIGHT

Microsoft's Metaverse Bet

  • Microsoft's $70 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard signals a significant investment in the metaverse's future.
  • This deal demonstrates a growing belief in the metaverse's potential beyond gaming.
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