People are taking a patchwork approach to self-expression to feel like they have control over how their identity is generated. Yet as individual expression becomes more mutable and mistrust in social systems abounds, there’s one place above all that people are seeking integrity and guidance: brands.

Once a signifier of luxury or novelty, custom products and services are now within reach of the everyday consumer, thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence, algorithm-led platforms, and the COVID-era digitisation boom. Today, everyone wants to be the main character of their brand experience.

The metaverse is emerging as a place for skill-building, experimentation, and fun, something the Lego and Epic Games partnership is tapping into. How will the brands help to build safer online learning spaces for kids? And what are the potential benefits of bringing education into virtual worlds?

Web3 platform Spatial allows brands and creators to design their own spaces and events in the metaverse, for entertainment, business, or educational purposes. With confusion and apprehension still surrounding virtual reality, how are digital platforms making immersive experiences more accessible?

The hit YouTube channel Ryan’s World is launching a virtual hub of activities and games inside the Roblox gaming platform. As virtual spaces increasingly emulate our real ones, activities like window-shopping or meeting up with friends are being replicated digitally for audiences of all ages.

The Sandbox’s partnership with Snoop Dogg has introduced a previously detached community to the blockchain, NFTs, and the metaverse. With emerging metaverses competing for users as interest grows, how important will established celebrities, brands, and intellectual property be?