- YouTube is working on ways to integrate Web 3.0 technology into its platform
- The company is looking into how to implement NFTs and the metaverse
- The news has not gone down well with users
YouTube is looking at integrating technologies such as blockchain, NFTs, and the metaverse, according to its Chief Product Officer. Neal Mohan published a blog post entitled ‘A Look at 2022: Community, Collaboration, and Commerce’ where he discussed the tools and products being rolled out by YouTube this year, with Web 3.0-based products featuring in the list.
Web 3.0 Offers “New Opportunities for Creators”
Cryptocurrency and YouTube haven’t always been the comfiest of bedfellows, with the platform known for suddenly de-platforming content creators who offer rational insight and allowing shitcoin peddlers to carry on.
However, the platform seems keen to explore the technology behind the movement further, with Mohan noting the potential in Web 3.0 for content creators:
Web3 also opens up new opportunities for creators. We believe new technologies like blockchain and NFTs can allow creators to build deeper relationships with their fans. Together, they’ll be able to collaborate on new projects and make money in ways not previously possible.
Mohan gave some examples of this, such as offering fans verifiable ways to “own unique videos, photos, art, and even experiences from their favorite creators”, although he also warned that there was “a lot to consider in making sure we approach these new technologies responsibly”.
Users Hit the Dislike Button
Mohan also touched on the metaverse, saying that it could “make viewing more immersive”, adding that YouTube was already working on how to “bring more interactions to games and make them feel more alive”. Mohan noted that it was “still early days” for the technology, but added that YouTube was “excited to see how we can turn these virtual worlds into a reality for viewers.”
As for the viewers, it’s safe to say that they weren’t quite as excited by Mohan about the introduction of NFTs and the metaverse:
YouTube had been making the shittiest decisions I’ve ever seen in my life but this is way too far.
How long until a creator gets a copyright strike on one of their videos because someone else bought it as an NFT? Fucking hell.
— Basil9 🔞 (@Basil9_nsfw) February 11, 2022
Companies want easy money without doing any actual work (i.e. “get rich quick” scams)
— Extrobuartem (@extrobuartem) February 11, 2022
There were some, however, that were more open to the prospect:
Can’t want to see what this does to the space and where it will take NFT’s Next even tho the idea has been around an others have done it now that a popular brand is involved it sure to bring a lot more attention with adds and all that I’m sure they will push strongly now
— ClockingOut (@ClockNOut) February 10, 2022
