WHAT IT IS?
Dating.com, a dating site, has created the virtual dating space from the Metaverse where anyone can create long-lasting relationships without the difficult challenge of meeting each other in real life.
The developers aim at making a space for all to enjoy:
“We are a safe and fulfilling space online where everyone can socialise, find meaningful connections, and match in a deeper way. Our passion is to combine social progress with the latest technologies advancements.” – Dating.com
Launched on September 23nd, 2022, LOMB opened with the first virtual wedding ever. The couples had met through Dating.com and had a successful relationship, so they decided to tie the knots through where they first found each other.
What is the Metaverse?
The Metaverse is a platform that group together multiple virtual 3D spaces into one. The users can interact freely at comfort of their home.
Within the Metaverse one can create digital online worlds similar to reality. For example are the cryptocurrencies, though not required, are good for the Metaverse as they allow virtual economies in which users can exchange freely.
How does it work?
If you are already hooked, you and your prince charming or princess first have to create an account on Decentraland, a 3D world platform, in which you will be able to “jump in” to different events of the virtual world. Next you’ll need to create an avatar, then it’s time for you to find the love of your life.
But if you have not found your love yet, sign in LOMB to meet someone. Once a relationship gets started, you and you lover will be able to meet in different events of the Metaverse, such as concerts, fashion shows, games, or other social activities, and enjoy the moment together.
WHY IT´S COOL?
- Meeting others from across the world in a space without being there.
- A new and physically safe space for people to connect.
- Different concept to the dating experience.
WHY IT HAS FUTURE GROWTH POTENTIAL?
The Dating.com x Decentraland pushes online dating further as the users can take part in different activities together which was previously difficult for long distance relationships. Although they are far away from one another they have new ways to connect. For the video-game fans, this new platform is a way to expand their cyber world and meet in spaces other than games.
Although virtual realities and remote work has grown, especially during the pandemic, real face-to-face interactions are still important to the human experience. Virtual dating may bring quick solutions and relief to distances that separate two people, but it cannot fully erase physical aspect of society.
Sources:
Win a wedding: https://www.dating.com/metaverse_wedding/
Dating.com website: https://www.dating.com/
Decentraland sign-in page: https://decentraland.org/download
Li Huang
Naila Kaplan
Carl Rohde