Altcoins, or alternative currencies, are cryptocurrencies created specifically to try to correct the mistakes of Bitcoin, which has always been a point of reference for every cryptocurrency.

An avatar is a manifestation of a user within the metaverse. The avatar can be photorealistic, stylized, faithful to reality or completely different, it can be interoperable with other metaverses and wear wearables.

Bitcoin (BTC) is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency that aims to serve as a medium of exchange independent of any central authority. BTC can be transferred electronically in a secure, verifiable and immutable manner.

Blockchain is a shared and immutable data structure. It is defined as a digital register whose entries are grouped into blocks, concatenated in chronological order, and whose integrity is guaranteed by the use of cryptography.

DeFi (Decentralized Finance) includes all those financial services that use smart contracts, automated executive agreements that do not require the presence of intermediaries and which, instead, use blockchain technology directly on the Internet.

Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized network, created by Vitalik Buterin in 2013. The network consists of a globally decentralized open source computing infrastructure, which executes programs called smart-contracts.

An Exchange is a tool closely related to cryptocurrencies, a technological platform that allows you to exchange this financial product. Its function, therefore, is to be able to make the purchase and sale of cryptocurrencies possible.

In economic language, inconvertible paper money, generally accepted as a means of payment as it has been declared legal tender by the issuing state, regardless of its intrinsic value. (e.g. EUR, USD)

Interoperability is a concept that can be expressed on different levels (either at the level of the graphics engine, of links or of web3 via NFTs). Interoperability allows the interconnection of services, projects, digital assets and metaverses as a whole. The more interoperable a metaverse is, the lower its inherent risk.

The Internet of Things is the set of all those devices connected to the Internet and controllable through it. (Ex: Alexa and Google home)

The Map2earn is a feature of OVER the Reality that allows the scanning of an OVR-Land to recreate a neural network on which the user can support the AR experiences created.

Metaverse is a term coined by Neal Stephenson in Snow Crash (1992), a cyberpunk science fiction book, described as a sort of virtual reality shared via the Internet, where one is represented in three dimensions through one's avatar.

Most cryptocurrencies are extracted by so-called "miners", within transaction blocks called "mines", powerful computing centers that validate transactions by generating a new amount of cryptocurrencies. Graphics cards are usually used to achieve this.

NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), are a sort of "digital tokens", which are saved on the blockchain and unequivocally demonstrate that the owner of the token is also the person who owns the digital asset connected to it. It has become fashionable in the art world to assign ownership of digital works.

This is a non-player character from the metaverse (or video games). An NPC can be made up of a bodysuit, wear wearables and contain an AI (or simple interactions)

Term that refers to the gaming world where in some games it is possible to explore the entire world map without having a pre-established path

Persistence in a virtual world allows anyone to move objects that will remain in the new location for everyone (even when re-entering VR)

Polygon is a layer 2 of Ethereum, able to offer greater scalability and speed, with lower fees. The most appropriate UX for the consumer world still benefits from the security of Ethereum.

Proof-of-stake is a type of protocol for securing a cryptocurrency network and for obtaining distributed consensus. It is based on the principle that each user is required to prove possession of a certain amount of cryptocurrency.

Proof of Work incentivizes miners to compete with each other in trade processing, receiving a reward in return. On some cryptocurrencies it is replaced by the Proof of Stake.

Virtual Reality represents a completely digital reality in which it is possible to move and interact through one's avatar.

Augmented reality is represented by a digital layer applied over reality (example: Pokemo Go)

Mixed reality is a concept that goes beyond augmented reality as it manages to merge real and virtual and not simply to superimpose them.

Unity and Unreal are the two most used graphics engines in the world of video games and are starting to be used for metaverses as well.

A wallet or crypto wallet allows the sending and receiving of transactions on the blockchain.

Wearable in Web3 means the NFT clothing that our avatar can wear.

The term Web3 was coined in 2014 by Gavin Wood, co-founder of Ethereum and developer of Polkadot. Identify the phase of the internet in which it is possible to: 1. read 2. interact 3. possess. This is essentially only possible thanks to the blockchain and NFTs.

The term "Web 4.0" does not have a universally accepted and standardized definition, but usually refers to a future evolutionary perspective of the World Wide Web and associated technologies. Some of the characteristics often associated with the concept of Web 4.0 include the more advanced use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain and other innovations.

In general, Web 4.0 is seen as a later stage than the concept of Web 3.0, which in turn focused on web semantics and advanced data interconnection. Web 4.0 could mean an even more personalized user experience, more advanced interactions between users and technology, as well as greater integration of the digital world with the physical environment through smart devices and advanced connectivity.

The term "splatting" refers to a technique primarily used in computer graphics and artificial vision to represent and visualize volumetric or spatial data. Splatting is a rendering method in which data is projected into pixels or points ("splats") on a final image. This process is often used for visualizing 3D point clouds or efficiently representing complex surfaces.

In essence, the splatting process involves the following steps:

1. **Generation of Splats:** 3D points or volumetric data are converted into splats, which are two-dimensional representations.
2. **Projection:** The splats are projected onto the image plane.
3. **Accumulation:** The color and opacity values of the splats are accumulated to determine the final color of the pixels in the rendered image.

Reconstruction of Spaces from Photos

The reconstruction of spaces from photos, or “3D reconstruction from images,” is a process that uses computer vision algorithms and artificial intelligence to create three-dimensional models from two-dimensional images. This can be done using techniques such as stereoscopy, photogrammetry, and deep learning.

1. Stereoscopy: Uses two or more images taken from slightly different angles to obtain depth information and reconstruct the scene in 3D.
2. Photogrammetry: Involves analyzing many images of an object or scene to accurately measure and reconstruct their dimensions and positions.
3. Deep Learning: Uses convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and other AI models to learn three-dimensional representations from large datasets of images.

NeRF (Neural Radiance Fields)

NeRF, short for “Neural Radiance Fields,” is an advanced technique in the field of artificial vision and 3D rendering that uses neural networks to generate detailed three-dimensional representations of a scene from a series of 2D images. The technique was introduced by a group of researchers from Google in 2020 and has revolutionized the way 3D scenes can be reconstructed and visualized.

How does NeRF work?

1. Input: NeRF takes as input a set of 2D images of a scene, along with information about the camera positions from which these images were taken.

2. Neural Network: It uses a neural network to map each point in 3D space to a color and a volume density. The network is trained to predict these values based on the input images.

3. Differentiable Rendering: The neural network is designed to be differentiable, which means that gradients can be calculated through the rendering process. This allows the network to be trained using gradient-based optimization.

4. Synthesis of New Views: Once trained, the network can be used to generate new images of the scene from any viewpoint, creating a continuous and detailed 3D model.

DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks)

DePIN, short for Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks, is an emerging concept in the field of blockchain and distributed networks. It refers to the construction and management of physical infrastructure using decentralized technologies. This approach combines elements of the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and resource management systems to create networks that can operate without the need for centralized control.

Key Features of DePIN

1. Decentralization: DePIN networks operate on a distributed network of nodes, eliminating the need for a single controlling entity. Each node can be managed by different individuals or entities.
2. Physical Infrastructure: Unlike purely digital networks, DePIN focuses on integration with physical infrastructures such as telecommunication towers, electric vehicle charging stations, IoT sensors, and more.
3. Blockchain: It uses blockchain to ensure transparency, security, and traceability in network operations. Transactions and interactions between nodes are immutably recorded on a blockchain.
4. Tokenization: DePIN networks often use cryptographic tokens to incentivize participation and network maintenance. Participants can earn tokens by providing resources or services to the network.

A point cloud is a digital representation of an object or scene in three dimensions, consisting of a set of points in 3D space. Each point in the point cloud has coordinates (x, y, z) that define its position in space and can contain additional information such as color, intensity, or surface normal.

How to Generate a Point Cloud

1. Lidar Scanning: Uses a Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor that emits laser pulses and measures the return time to calculate distance and create a detailed 3D map.
2. Photogrammetry: Uses 2D images captured from different angles and processes them with computer vision algorithms to reconstruct a 3D scene.
3. Structured Light Scanning: Projects a light pattern onto the object's surface and captures the pattern's deformations to calculate the 3D coordinates.
4. Stereo Vision: Uses pairs of stereoscopic images to triangulate the positions of points in 3D space.

Co-location in augmented reality (AR) refers to the ability of multiple devices to share a common AR experience in a shared physical environment. This means that users with separate AR devices can see, interact with, and collaborate with the same virtual objects placed in the same real space.

How Co-location in AR Works

1. Environment Detection and Mapping:
• AR devices use sensors such as cameras, LiDAR, and accelerometers to scan and map the surrounding physical environment.
• This environment map is used to place and anchor virtual objects in the real space.
2. Sharing Position Data:
• Devices need to share precise information about their position and orientation relative to the physical environment.
• This can be done using technologies such as GPS, visual markers, Bluetooth beacons, or Wi-Fi networks.
3. Synchronizing Virtual Objects:
• Virtual objects are placed consistently and synchronized across different devices, ensuring that all users see the objects in the same relative location.
4. Real-time Communication:
• Devices must continuously communicate to update the position and state of virtual objects, ensuring precise synchronization.
• This communication can occur through local networks like Wi-Fi Direct or through internet connections.

Persistence in augmented reality (AR) refers to the ability to keep virtual objects and content anchored and present in a specific location in the real world, even when the AR application is closed and reopened or when the device is moved and reused. This concept is crucial for creating continuous and consistent AR experiences that users can resume at any time.

How Persistence in AR Works

1. Spatial Anchoring:
• Virtual objects are anchored to specific positions in the physical environment using visual markers, natural landmarks, or precise spatial coordinates generated by technologies like SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping).
2. Environment Mapping:
• AR devices map the physical environment and store this map so that virtual objects can be correctly repositioned when the application is reopened.
• The environment map can be continuously updated to adapt to changes in the physical environment.
3. Data Storage:
• Information related to the position of virtual objects and the environment map is saved locally on the device or on a cloud server.
• This storage ensures that objects remain persistent and can be retrieved later.
4. Synchronization and Retrieval:
• When the AR application is reopened, it retrieves the stored data and repositions the virtual objects in their original locations.
• Synchronization with the cloud server can ensure that the information is updated and consistent across different devices.

Synchronous AR Experience

A synchronous AR experience occurs when multiple users interact with the same AR content at the same time. This type of experience requires users' devices to be connected in real-time to constantly share and update information related to virtual objects and their position in the physical space.

Features of Synchronous AR Experiences

1. Real-Time:
• Users see and interact with virtual objects simultaneously, with immediate updates visible to all participants.
2. Collaboration:
• Synchronous experiences promote collaborative activities, such as multiplayer games, shared design projects, and educational workshops.
3. Communication:
• They often include real-time communication tools, such as voice or video chats, to facilitate interaction between users.
4. Precise Synchronization:
• They require precise synchronization of virtual objects and user positions to avoid misalignments and ensure a smooth experience.


Asynchronous AR Experience

An asynchronous AR experience, on the other hand, occurs when users interact with virtual objects and AR content at different times. This type of experience does not require a real-time connection between users' devices and allows for greater flexibility in accessing and interacting with AR content.

Minting an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) is the process through which a digital asset (such as a piece of art, music, video, or any other type of file) is transformed into a unique token on the blockchain. This process makes the digital asset unique and traceable, allowing for its ownership and trade in a decentralized market.

Steps for Minting an NFT

1. Choose the Minting Platform:
• There are several platforms for minting NFTs, such as OpenSea, Rarible, Mintable, and artist-specific platforms like Foundation. Each platform has its own features and fees.
2. Create a Cryptocurrency Wallet:
• It is necessary to have a cryptocurrency wallet compatible with the blockchain on which you want to mint the NFT (e.g., MetaMask for Ethereum).
• Ensure you have enough cryptocurrency in your wallet to cover transaction fees (called “gas fees”).
3. Prepare the Digital Asset:
• Upload the digital file (image, audio, video, etc.) that you want to transform into an NFT.
• Define the metadata associated with the NFT, such as the title, description, and unique attributes.
4. Minting the NFT:
• On the chosen platform, follow the minting process. This includes:
• Uploading the digital asset.
• Entering the required metadata.
• Paying the transaction fees to register the NFT on the blockchain.
• Once completed, the NFT will be created and registered on the blockchain, becoming a unique token.
5. Managing and Selling the NFT:
• Once created, the NFT can be managed directly from your cryptocurrency wallet.
• The NFT can be put up for sale on marketplaces like OpenSea, where buyers can make offers or purchase directly.

WebGL for Augmented Reality

WebGL AR is a technology that combines WebGL (Web Graphics Library) with augmented reality (AR) to create AR experiences directly in the web browser without the need for additional plug-ins or software. WebGL is a JavaScript API for rendering 3D and 2D graphics within any compatible web browser without the use of plug-ins. When combined with AR technologies, WebGL allows the creation and visualization of interactive and immersive AR content accessible on a wide range of devices.

Key Components of WebGL AR

1. WebGL:
• Provides 3D rendering capabilities in the browser.
• Utilizes the device's GPU power to perform complex graphic operations.
2. AR Technologies:
• AR.js: A JavaScript library that makes it easy to add AR functionality to WebGL applications. AR.js is compatible with various frameworks such as A-Frame and Three.js.
• A-Frame: A framework for building VR and AR experiences on WebGL. It facilitates the creation of interactive 3D scenes using HTML.
• Three.js: A JavaScript library for creating 3D graphics in the browser, often used together with WebGL to simplify 3D rendering.
3. WebRTC and WebXR:
• WebRTC: Provides real-time communication capabilities for video and audio, which can be useful for interactive and collaborative AR experiences.
• WebXR: An API that supports virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences in the web browser.

Ready Player Me is a platform that allows users to create customized 3D avatars that can be used in various virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and gaming applications. These avatars can be integrated as non-player characters (NPCs) in gaming environments and immersive applications, creating more interactive and personalized experiences.

The VPS is a feature that helps overcome the challenges of the Global Positioning System (GPS) and provides more accurate locations by leveraging location images and recognizing them.