Megatrends
Megatrends are large, global trends that shape the trajectory of technology, economy, and society over decades.
The megatrends shaping the metaverse are both social and technological:
- Blockchain
- Cybernetics
- Distributed Network
- Low Code Platforms
- Machine Intelligence
- Open Platforms
- Simulating Reality
- Virtual Mainstreaming
- Walled Gardens
Several of these megatrends have accelerated dramatically since this framework was first articulated. Machine Intelligence has undergone perhaps the most radical transformation—evolving from narrow AI and expert systems into large language models and autonomous agents that are reshaping every layer of the technology stack. Low Code Platforms have converged with AI to create a Creator Era where natural language replaces programming. And Open Platforms are being redefined by open-source AI models and protocols like the Model Context Protocol.
Explore the 9 trends by clicking through to each topic, or read the in-depth article below to learn more.
Further Reading
- 9 Megatrends Shaping the Metaverse (full article)
- The State of AI Agents in 2026