Some readers may have recently encountered online articles discussing Web3 technology. However, the majority of these news sources assume that you already possess an understanding of the basics. If you happen to feel as if this movement has passed you by, you are in luck. Let’s examine the “nuts and bolts” to better understand where the World Wide Web is headed.
First and foremost, Web3 is simply the latest iteration of the technology that underpins the Internet community. The main difference involves the decentralized nature of this software; enabling it to provide an additional degree of security.
Now that we have addressed the proverbial elephant in the room, it pays to examine a handful of industries that have already benefited from Web3 protocols, and what the future could have in store.
Crypto-Friendly Payments
It is no surprise that multi-asset payment ecosystems (including international firms such as Mountain Wolf, a payment provider and exchange) have enjoyed a meteoric rise in popularity over the past few years. This largely arises from their ability to combine Web3 technology with cryptocurrency payment platforms.
For instance, consumers can now secure a prepaid cryptocurrency card that supports popular tokens such as Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum. What is perhaps even more interesting is that these very same cards (either obtained in physical form, or downloaded as a smartphone app) can be used to complete everyday purchases. The fact that a Web3 framework has been deployed helps to ensure instantaneous transactions, and second-to-none levels of anonymity (both understandable concerns).
The Anonymous Edge?
We have already touched upon the decentralized nature of Web3 systems. Did you know that this also translates to the average Internet user? As opposed to in the past, the ability to enjoy an anonymous experience is no longer reserved for high-net-worth individuals alone. However, we should still mention that other utilities such as virtual private networks (VPNs) can offer an additional layer of security.
Will We Begin to Witness a Large-Scale Adoption?
Technology is continuing to evolve at a breakneck pace. Whether referring to the rumoured foldable iPhone or hybrid workplaces, it seems nearly impossible to keep abreast of the latest advancements. This is equally true when discussing the potential long-term impacts of Web3 services. However, it is important to remember that HTML5 is still commonplace. Although we may begin to witness a transition to Web3 in the future, it is not yet certain how profound such a paradigm shift may me.
Real-World Applications
Some analysts also believe that Web3 technology may eventually evolve to the point where it is able to satisfy practical desires. For example, it could be used to provide lifetime tickets to an event in the form of a non-fungible token (NFT). This method offers an additional level of convenience, and is more secure than being forced to download a physical ticket that may contain personal details.
Having said this, Web3 is still in its infancy. Although its effects (particularly within the online cryptocurrency payments sector) are already being felt, the chances are high that we will have to wait a few more years before the term becomes commonplace.
