For the last year 3Dwalkthroughs.com has been predicting the convergence of social networks and 3D virtual worlds. Today there was an article on Forbes.com that confirms our prediction.
According to the article, by 2011 up to 80% of active Internet users, or 250 million people, will participate online in 3D virtual worlds. This prediction was based on a study conducted by the internet consultant Gartner.
Forbes mentioned the 3D virtual world Kaneva as one of the front runners, in addition to better known, Second Life. Kaneva differs from Second Life by encouraging the creation of avatars that are online versions of their real identities, linking photos of themselves and lists of hobbies to their animated avatars. Second Life, in contrast, fosters taking on an alternative identity, including imaginary beasts.
Both Second Life and Kaneva are free to join. They get revenue by selling play money, leasing virtual land and, in the case of Kaneva, by promoting real-world commerce (especially TV shows).
Source: Forbes.com
It is exciting to think of the opportunities that will come from the converegence of these 2 technologies. Trying to predict the specifics however, seems pointless. (if you don't believe me I will lend you some of the books that were written during the .com days)
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