Aware of hidden agendas, people no longer believe in the possibility of absolute truth or complete transparency from institutions, public figures, and individuals. Yet they are still drawn to honesty, integrity, and – at times – even vulnerability, which they expect from peers and brands alike.

Nike has taken its first major metaverse steps by creating Nikeland with the digital environment platform Roblox, showcasing the start of a digital-first strategy. Given Gen Zers' preference for digital spaces and communities, Nike is joining them in the metaverse to build new relationships.

Snoop Dogg has released the world’s first metaverse music video for the song 'House I Built’. Its lyrics repeatedly refer to the Web3 ecosystem and to Snoop’s emphasis on authentic self-expression and set an example for how brands might help people articulate their identities in the metaverse.

Technological advances are continuously reshaping how people interact, engage, and communicate with one another in the digital world. But how will people navigate social situations in the metaverse? Canvas8 spoke to Dr. Guo Freeman about how people form relationships in social VR.

Social gaming platform Roblox, which was built by players for players, has boomed during the pandemic. Designed to connect children to their friends through fun, interactive and collaborative video games, it has become one of lockdown’s biggest success stories.