From the leading theorist of the Metaverse comes the definitive account of the next internet: what the Metaverse is, what it will take to build it, and what it means for all of us. The term "Metaverse" is suddenly everywhere, from the front pages of national newspapers and the latest fashion trends to the plans of the most powerful companies in history. It is already shaping the policy platforms of the US government, the European Union, and the Chinese Communist Party. But what, exactly, is the Metaverse? As pioneering theorist and venture capitalist Matthew Ball explains, it is a persistent and interconnected network of 3D virtual worlds that will eventually serve as the gateway to most online experiences, and also underpin much of the physical world.

A brief history of the future --Confusion and uncertainty -- A definition (finally) -- The next internet -- Networking -- Computing -- Virtual world engines -- Interoperability -- Hardware -- Payment rails -- Blockchains -- When will the metaverse arrive? -- Meta-businesses -- Metaverse winners and losers -- Metaversal existence.