Make-up brand NYX has debuted its first beauty look in the format of an AR filter, allowing for more creative self-expression in the metaverse. But as technology is changing the face of beauty, surreal filters are challenging IRL beauty norms, alleviating pressure to look a certain way.

The desire for more immersive virtual content is matched by hesitation around the metaverse and the tech companies driving it. Nike’s acquisition of RTFKT signifies a more mainstream shift towards the virtual world, offering new audiences access to innovative online experiences.

After a period of rapid digitisation, in which people relied heavily on the internet to facilitate meaningful connections, modes of visual self-expression have moved far beyond the performative selfie. In this new era of metaversal living, how do people want to curate their virtual identities?

The proliferation of 5G won’t kill birds, spread COVID-19, or cause cancer (as conspiracy theorists often suggest). It will, however, transform the mobile gaming landscape thanks to cloud-based processing and rapid connections. What kinds of virtual experiences might this tech facilitate?