Remember the good old days of dial-up internet? Waiting for what feels like forever to download a single webpage? Well, since then we've experienced some serious technological advancements.
Welcome to the world of Web 3.0. While the term might sound a bit futuristic, it's not too far off. In fact, Web 3.0 is already in development as we speak – and some say it's going to revolutionize the way we use the internet.
In this article, we're going to dive into what Web 3.0 is, where it's at in its development, and when we might start to see it being implemented. So, strap yourselves in, and let's see how the future of the internet - and the planet as we know it - is going to change forever.
What is Web 3.0?
Web 3.0 is the name given to the third iteration of the internet. Before the internet we know and love today, there were two previous generations: ARPANET and NSFNET.
The former was developed in the late 60s and was a network set up by the US Department of Defense primarily for research and communication purposes. Then, the latter came along in the 1980s and was more focused on providing access and infrastructure to universities across the US.
Back in the 60s, the modern internet we have access to today was simply unfathomable, and to some extent, the same can be said of what is about to come.
Boomers and even some millennials are struggling to come to terms with the ever-evolving world of the internet. But to steal a sporting term, the younger generations are about to take the ball and run with it way off into the future.
Web 3.0 emphasizes the creation of a semantic web that can better understand human language and behavior to make it easier for people to find essential information.
The next phase of the internet will make use of innovative technology like blockchain, virtual reality, and the metaverse. Depending on which side of the fence you sit on, it all sounds either very utopian or very dystopian, but one thing is certain... the future is coming.
What are the key features of Web 3.0?
The future of the web is not about developing better user interfaces or enabling faster connections. Those developments have already taken place over the last decade or so, as one can see every day when they investigate the corner of their smartphone and see the 5G symbol.
Instead, the next step for the internet will focus on integrating newer technologies.
Concepts such as AI, blockchain, and decentralized apps will be at the forefront of Web 3.0, with the aim of enabling direct communication between machines and creating web services that can understand the intent and preferences of an individual user more accurately.
In the future, however, such websites will ensure that players are practically sitting in the same room and at the same table as their competitors, allowing for an even more authentic experience.
What Stage of Development Is Web 3.0 In?
As we have mentioned, development is still in the initial stages, but several intriguing initiatives have already entered our daily lives. Blockchain-based decentralized applications like Cryptokitties and decentralized finance protocols are gaining popularity.
With the creation of 5G, the designated speed and power required to support the next generation of the internet are already available.
Many significant tech firms, like Google, IBM, and Amazon, are investing heavily in the industry and are doing their utmost to see the dream of Web 3.0 become a reality. With these behemoths on board, it's only a matter of time before we're all fully connected.
When Will We Get Web 3.0?
It's challenging to predict with certainty when the next generation of the internet will arrive. Before we realize its full potential, some estimates say it might take as little as five years, while others say it could take a decade or longer.
Lack of standardization, which is essential for web services to function together effortlessly, is one of the main issues facing its development at the moment.
What Could Web 3.0 Mean for Us?
The next evolution has the potential to change our lives in ways that we can't even imagine. It presents many exciting opportunities such as creating a safer, more decentralized internet that prioritizes privacy and security.
Besides, it could lead to more efficient internet services and a more interconnected world.
We will see the emergence of new business models that better value individuals' contributions to the web. However, there are also concerns that come with the rise of Web 3.0, such as the potential loss of jobs due to automation.
As well as that, if you have ever seen the smash hit Netflix show 'Black Mirror' you will know that the advancement of technology isn't always a good thing.