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Metaverse In Spotlight At MWC 3D Tech Fair Even As Doubts Arise

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METAVERSE – air taxi, buckled my seat belt, and braced myself as the plane took off. Busan, South Korea’s futuristic cityscape, faded away, and a digital avatar with a message appeared on the windshield.

As a wave of motion sickness hit me, I couldn’t respond. When I put on the virtual reality goggles and sat in the seats that moved back and forth and side to side, it felt like I was flying and turning in the air. They also made me feel so sick that I had to close my eyes for the rest of the three-minute ride.

Then again, who doesn’t?

The air taxi mockup by South Korean company SK Telecom was one of the most eye-catching demonstrations at MWC, or Mobile World Congress, the world’s largest telecom industry trade show. At this week’s expo in Barcelona, tech companies and wireless carriers demonstrated advances in connecting people and businesses online, increasingly in new virtual reality worlds dubbed the metaverse.

Visitor Mark Varahona felt woozy after trying the flight experience, but he is still considering purchasing a virtual reality headset required to enter any immersive digital universe.

“I was considering purchasing it before coming here. “And maybe I’ll buy them now,” he said. “They appear to be quite nice.”

The metaverse exploded in popularity after Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg declared it the next big thing for the internet in late 2021, renaming his social media empire and investing tens of billions of dollars in the concept.

metaverse

The metaverse exploded in popularity.

He portrayed it as a 3D community where people can meet, work, and play, like trying on digital clothes, holding a virtual meeting, or taking an online trip.

However, as the initial excitement fades, concerns about the metaverse’s viability have emerged. According to NPD Research, sales of virtual reality headsets in the United States fell 2% in December compared to the previous year. Reality Labs, which makes Meta Quest headsets, posted an operating loss of $13.7 billion in 2022.

Meta has stated that it intends to employ 10,000 engineers in Europe to work on the metaverse. “Our expansion in Europe was always a long-term one planned over several years,” the company said when asked for an update. We will continue to support Europe.”

The “metaverse has not vanished,” according to Ben Wood, the principal analyst at CCS Insight. “However, there is much more skepticism about what role it will play, particularly in the consumer domain beyond the obvious areas like gaming.”

The difficulty in defining the metaverse has added to the skepticism. According to Tuong Nguyen, a Gartner analyst specializing in emerging technologies, it is not the same as virtual reality or its cousin, augmented reality.

“So, in the same way, that computers are related to the Internet, AR and VR are very closely related to the metaverse,” he explained. “Think of it as the evolution of the Internet, changing how we interact with the world.”

So, how should the flight simulator of SK Telecom be defined?

“Technically, it’s not metaverse, but kind of metaverse,” Ken Wohn, a company manager, explained.

metaverse

At French wireless company Orange’s metaverse demonstration

Last year, South Korea’s largest telecom provider collaborated with Joby Aviation of California to develop an electric air taxi service for the country.

According to Wohn, air taxis could one day operate autonomously, using high-speed 5G wireless connections.

At French wireless company Orange’s metaverse demonstration, users were transported to a futuristic neon-hued technoscape with lightning bolts, giant robots, and a falcon carrying a green orb in its talons.

A dancing figure appeared, representing the movements of a real-life dancer wearing motion-capture gear. It was a stunning display, though it needed to be clarified what consumer purpose it served.

It demonstrates how new 5G networks will eliminate lag for metaverse users watching something far away, according to Miguel Angel Almonacid, Orange’s network strategy director for Spain.

Analysts believe the metaverse is better suited to practical purposes in the workplace.

“We’ll see traction first because the barriers aren’t as high,” Gartner’s Nguyen predicted. A worker, for example, could use augmented reality glasses to access diagnostics or an instruction manual.

La Frontera, a Spanish startup, uses the metaverse to provide virtual meetings with “realistic avatars,” according to Marta Ortiz, a business development executive who guided me through the company’s metaverse.

We began our journey on a beach with boulders, palm trees, and a light blue sea. Her avatar appeared as a head and shoulders, with disembodied hands hovering before her chest. We entered a conference room with a boardroom table, where I picked up 3D objects like a toy ray gun and a bottle of Champagne with handheld controllers.

metaverse

The virtual world could also be useful for displaying products too large to transport easily

Training for risky, repetitive, or highly detailed procedures, such as surgery, is another example of a metaverse application.

The beach vanished, replaced by a burning overturned tanker truck. A fire extinguisher was suspended in midair. Ortiz instructed me to grab it with my virtual hand and spray it at the dying flames.

The virtual world could also be useful for displaying products too large to transport easily, such as private jets.

They may also be too small for humans.

The setting changed to a science-fiction setting, with crimson walls rising around us to represent the inside of a blood vessel. Blood cells in the shape of doughnuts floated by, followed by spiky orbs. The blood vessel’s wall collapsed, revealing pulsing white streaks on a blue background representing neurons in the brain.

La Frontera collaborates with pharmaceutical companies to “demonstrate how a drug works in the body at a cellular level,” according to Ortiz. It was a medicine used to treat multiple sclerosis, which attacks brain neurons.

SOURCE – (AP)

 

 

Kiara Grace is a staff writer at VORNews, a reputable online publication. Her writing focuses on technology trends, particularly in the realm of consumer electronics and software. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for breaking down complex topics, Kiara delivers insightful analyses that resonate with tech enthusiasts and casual readers alike. Her articles strike a balance between in-depth coverage and accessibility, making them a go-to resource for anyone seeking to stay informed about the latest innovations shaping our digital world.

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Cryptocurrency

Disneyland Character And Parade Performers In California Vote To Join Labor Union

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Pixa Bay - VOR News image

Anaheim, California – Disneyland actors who bring Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, and other popular characters to life at the Southern California resort voted to unionize after a three-day referendum that ended on Saturday.

The Actors’ Equity Association labor union announced Saturday that cast members at Disney’s theme parks near Los Angeles voted overwhelmingly for the union to become the bargaining agent for approximately 1,700 workers.

According to an association website that tracked balloting among cast members, 78.7% (953 votes) supported the passage, and 21.3% (258 votes) opposed it

disneyland

AP – VOR News Image

Disneyland Character And Parade Performers In California Vote To Join Labor Union

“They say that Disneyland is ‘the place where dreams come true,’ and for the Disney Cast Members who have worked to organize a union, their dream came true today,” Actors’ Equity Association President Kate Shindle said in a statement on Saturday night.

Shindle described the workers as the “front lines” of the Disneyland guest experience. She said the association and cast members will address health and safety improvements, salaries, benefits, working conditions, and job security before meeting with Walt Disney Company executives to negotiate worker priorities into a contract.

The union now represents theatrical actors in Disney’s Florida parks.

According to the association, the National Labor Relations Board’s regional director will certify the results within a week, assuming no election challenges.

The NLRB did not immediately respond to The Associated Press’s email requesting confirmation or other information about the vote.

The election was held on Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday in Anaheim, California after employees filed cards earlier this year to join the “Magic United” unit.

disneyland

Pixa Bay – VOR News Image

Disneyland Character And Parade Performers In California Vote To Join Labor Union

Parade and character workers who advocated for unionization said they like helping to create a fantastic experience at Disneyland. However, they were anxious when asked to begin hugging people after returning to work during the coronavirus pandemic. They also claimed that elaborate outfits and unpredictable timetables cause damage.

Most of the Disneyland Resort’s more than 35,000 employees, including cleaning crews, pyrotechnic specialists, and security personnel, are already unionized. The resort contains Disneyland, the Walt Disney Company’s oldest theme park, Disney California Adventure and Anaheim’s shopping and entertainment center, Downtown Disney

In recent years, Disney has been accused of failing to pay a living wage to its Southern California employees, who face excessive housing prices and frequently drive long distances or live in cramped quarters. Parade performers and character actors are paid a base rate of $24.15 per hour, up from $20 before January, plus premiums for certain roles.

Union membership has been declining in the United States for decades, but organizations have enjoyed increased public support in recent years during high-profile contract negotiations with Hollywood studios and Las Vegas hotels. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which protects workers’ rights to organize, announced more than 2,500 filings for union representation during the fiscal year 2023, the most in eight years.

disneyland

PixaBay – VOR News Image

Disneyland Character And Parade Performers In California Vote To Join Labor Union

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, a union that normally represents transportation workers, organized those who play Mickey, Goofy, and Donald Duck in Florida over 40 years ago.

At the time, Florida performers complained about unclean costumes and harassment from customers, including youngsters who kicked the shins of Disney villains like Captain Hook.

SOURCE – (AP)

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Cryptocurrency

Bitcoin Value Drops as Halving Date Nears

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Bitcoin Value

Bitcoin’s value has fallen dramatically recently. Compared to its most recent all-time high of $73,750, the present price of Bitcoin is under $65,000, a decline of more than 12%. Both investors and cryptocurrency aficionados have noticed this unexpected drop.

The price of Bitcoin hit a new low of about $60,090.43 in the last several days, its lowest level since February. Given this declining tendency, the reasons impacting the bitcoin market have been the subject of debate.

This fall in Bitcoin’s value is due to important variables, such as legislative developments, fluctuating investor mood, and volatile markets. For those working in the cryptocurrency industry, it is essential to have a firm grasp of these aspects to successfully traverse the current market conditions.

It is crucial to keep up with the newest trends and developments in Bitcoin pricing in order to make educated investing decisions in the ever-changing cryptocurrency market. If you want to know why Bitcoin’s value dropped recently and how the digital asset market works, read on.

Factors Behind the Bitcoin Value Drop

The recent decrease in Bitcoin’s value can be attributed to various factors that have impacted the cryptocurrency market. Let’s delve into two significant aspects contributing to the decline in Bitcoin prices.

Market Uncertainty:

The volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market often leads to uncertainty among investors, causing fluctuations in Bitcoin prices. When market conditions become unpredictable, investors may react by selling off their Bitcoin holdings to mitigate potential losses. This rush to sell can cascade, putting downward pressure on Bitcoin prices.

Market trends, such as sudden price drops or rapid increases in trading volume, can contribute to heightened uncertainty. Factors like global economic instability, regulatory changes, or even major geopolitical events can further blur the outlook for Bitcoin’s value, prompting investors to reassess their positions and opt for selling, thus influencing the price downturn.

Regulatory Developments:

Another significant factor influencing the recent Bitcoin value drop is regulatory news and changes within the cryptocurrency space. Authorities worldwide have been increasingly focusing on regulating digital assets like Bitcoin, which can impact investor sentiment and confidence in the market.

Recent announcements of stricter regulations, bans on cryptocurrency trading in certain regions, or crackdowns on unregistered exchanges have all instilled fear and uncertainty among investors. Such regulatory developments can lead to a sell-off as market participants anticipate potential hurdles in trading, compliance, or even the overall legality of holding Bitcoin.

By closely monitoring market uncertainty and regulatory developments, investors can better understand Bitcoin’s value dynamics and make informed decisions amid the evolving cryptocurrency landscape. Staying informed about these factors is crucial for navigating the volatile nature of the crypto market and adapting to changing conditions to protect investments in digital assets.

Impact of Bitcoin Halving on Price

Bitcoin halving, a fundamental event in the Bitcoin network, plays a crucial role in influencing its price dynamics. Understanding how Bitcoin halving affects supply and demand helps predict potential price fluctuations in the cryptocurrency market.

Bitcoin Halving Explanation

Bitcoin halving, also known as halving, occurs approximately every four years and reduces miners’ rewards for verifying transactions by half. This process is coded into the Bitcoin protocol to limit the supply of new Bitcoins entering circulation. As a result, Bitcoin becomes scarcer over time, impacting its perceived value.

Historical Price Trends After Halving

Analyzing past Bitcoin halving events provides valuable insights into how the cryptocurrency’s price has reacted in the aftermath. Historically, Bitcoin prices have shown bullish trends post-halving, with significant price increases observed in the months following the event. This pattern is attributed to the reduced supply of new Bitcoins and increased investor demand.

By examining historical data and observing how Bitcoin’s price has behaved after previous halving events, investors and analysts can better understand potential price movements in the future. Market participants closely monitor the impact of Bitcoin’s halving on price to make informed decisions regarding their cryptocurrency investments.

Overall, Bitcoin’s halving serves as a pivotal moment that impacts Bitcoin’s supply-demand dynamics, ultimately influencing its market value and price fluctuations.

Bitcoin Price in USD and Recent Trend

Since the recent ups and downs in the cryptocurrency market have sparked curiosity among investors, let’s delve into the current state of Bitcoin’s value.

Current Bitcoin Price:

As of the latest data available, Bitcoin’s price in USD stands at approximately $61,244.38 per unit. Comparing this to recent highs, where Bitcoin surged above $64,000 and lows around $30,000, we can see the notable volatility that Bitcoin has experienced in the past weeks.

Price Fluctuations Analysis:

Various factors, including market demand, regulatory developments, and macroeconomic trends, have influenced the recent Bitcoin price fluctuations. The surge and retreat of Bitcoin value can be attributed to factors such as market speculation, news around Bitcoin halving events, and the overall sentiment towards the cryptocurrency market. These rapid price shifts showcase the cryptocurrency market’s unpredictable nature and the need for investors to stay updated on Bitcoin trends.

Analyzing the current Bitcoin price trend reveals a dynamic landscape where prices can shift rapidly based on market forces. Understanding the nuances of Bitcoin price fluctuations is pivotal for investors to make informed decisions about their holdings and successfully navigate the evolving cryptocurrency market landscape.

By staying informed about the latest Bitcoin to USD conversion rates and monitoring market indicators, investors can better position themselves in this fast-paced and ever-changing realm of digital currency trading. Bitcoin’s resilience and potential to act as a hedge against traditional financial assets make it a game-changer in the financial world, emphasizing the need for a strategic approach to effectively leverage its benefits.

The Role of Bitcoin Wallets in Value Fluctuations

The value of Bitcoin can experience significant fluctuations, influenced by various factors such as market demand, investor sentiment, and the role of Bitcoin wallets. Understanding how Bitcoin wallets affect price movements is essential for cryptocurrency enthusiasts.

Wallet Exchanges and Price Movement

Bitcoin transactions through wallets and exchanges play a crucial role in determining the price of Bitcoin. The volume of transactions on these platforms can impact supply and demand dynamics, affecting the overall market sentiment. Large buy or sell orders on exchanges can lead to price spikes or drops, creating volatility in the Bitcoin market. During times of high trading activity, the price of Bitcoin can experience rapid fluctuations, highlighting the interconnectedness between wallet usage and price movements.

Safety Measures in Wallet Usage

As Bitcoin’s value fluctuates, users must prioritize security measures to safeguard their investments held in Bitcoin wallets. Implementing robust security practices, such as using hardware wallets or two-factor authentication, can help protect funds from potential breaches or cyber-attacks during price drops. It is advisable for users to regularly update their wallet software, use strong passwords, and enable additional security features provided by wallet providers. By taking proactive steps to secure their Bitcoin holdings, users can mitigate price volatility risks and ensure their digital assets’ safety.

In conclusion, the role of Bitcoin wallets in value fluctuations underscores the need for users to understand the interconnected nature of wallet exchanges and price movements. By adopting proper safety measures and staying informed about market trends, cryptocurrency investors can confidently navigate through price fluctuations and protect their Bitcoin investments effectively.

Conclusion

Finally, investors are worried about Bitcoin’s future due to its recent decline in value, around $60,000. Reasons for the drop include market corrections, lower trading volumes, and significant holders taking profits after a period of high volatility.

Be wary of digital asset investments in light of this latest price drop, the biggest since February, and the inherent volatility of the cryptocurrency market. As Bitcoin’s value keeps changing, it’s important to stay informed and cautious when dealing with an ever-changing market. To lessen the blow of price swings in the unpredictable cryptocurrency market, investors should carefully monitor market movements and consider diversifying their holdings.

 

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Bitcoin To The Moon? Here’s Why It’s Near An All-Time High, With A Surge Of 20%

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Last month, as bitcoin hit $45,000, JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon compared it to a Pet Rock and told people to “stop talking about this s—.” Investors are currently laughing all the way to the bank.

In just five days, the cryptocurrency had surged by 20%. With Wednesday’s gains, the coin is on track to reach an all-time high of about $69,000 in November 2021, the last time it traded above $60,000.

bitcoin

Bitcoin To The Moon? Here’s Why It’s Near An All-Time High

Billions of dollars have flowed into the cryptocurrency since the US Securities and Exchange Commission approved bitcoin exchange-traded funds last month, contributing to the boom.

The other key element at work is the impending “halving” of Bitcoin. Halving is a built-in feature of Bitcoin that automatically limits the rate at which new coins enter circulation. It occurs every four years and, in principle, raises the price of Bitcoin because it increases the scarcity of an already finite currency.

This occurs because miners (the programmers responsible for solving complicated math problems inherent in the currency) see their Bitcoin-denominated payout cut in half when a threshold is reached.

bitcoin

Bitcoin To The Moon? Here’s Why It’s Near An All-Time High

In the past, halvings have triggered substantial bull markets. However, there is no clear rule that guarantees this conclusion every time. Various events, such as the prospect of additional rules, might reduce any possible advantages from a halving.

However, investors are hopeful that this will not play out, and they are hurrying to get in on the action or pay out their winnings. Coinbase, a cryptocurrency exchange platform, faced substantial interruptions due to the increased trade volume, according to CEO Brian Armstrong in a post on X Wednesday.

“Some users may see a zero balance across their Coinbase accounts & may experience errors in buying or selling,” Coinbase Support said on X at 1 p.m. ET Wednesday. “Our team is looking into this and will provide an update shortly. “Your assets are safe.”

bitcoin

Bitcoin To The Moon? Here’s Why It’s Near An All-Time High

An hour and a half later, Coinbase announced in another X post that it was “beginning to see improvement in customer trading.” It also stated that consumers may still be experiencing problems “due to increased traffic.”

Coinbase declined to comment to CNN about the problems other than the X postings.

SOURCE – (CNN)

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