Are we back? NFT Markets Surge

Simplifying emerging technology trends with Shira Lazar. Learn what matters in web3 and AI in under 3 minutes per week.

Author

Shira Lazar
November 13, 2023

This Week in Web3... 

This Week in Web3...

Roblox CEO David Baszucki discussed the potential for integrating NFTs into the Roblox platform, emphasizing interoperability across different platforms. This vision includes unique items like NFTs created by celebrities or brands such as Elton John or Nike, which could be sold for charity and function both on and off the platform. Although Roblox currently thrives on its own digital currency, Robux, generating substantial revenue, the idea of introducing NFTs is still in consideration.

Former Chief Business Officer Craig Donato hinted at this possibility in 2022 but noted it wasn't a priority at the time. With over 70 million daily active users and a recent report of $839.5 million in bookings, Roblox's exploration into NFTs suggests a potential new direction for the platform’s growth and user engagement.

NFT sales soared to a three-month high with $19.1 million in trading volume, significantly driven by a major CryptoPunks transaction. Bored Ape Yacht Club co-founder Wylie Aronow's purchase of CryptoPunk #7458 for 600 ETH ($1.1 million) contributed to this spike, amidst a general increase in NFT interest following a satirical segment on "The Simpsons." Despite recent boosts, the NFT market is still recovering from its peak in April 2022, with trading volumes far below their highest levels, even as new platforms like Blur gain traction in the market

Gucci is expanding its iconic presence into the metaverse with a new virtual experience in The Sandbox, coinciding with its physical Gucci Cosmos exhibition. This immersive digital world, set in a virtual London, allows users to explore Gucci's rich heritage through an avatar. Participants engage in quests and parkour through various realms, each representing a different aspect of Gucci's history, including collecting archival treasures.

Meta Queens

Meta Queens, a digital art collection committed to amplifying queer creators while raising money for LGBTQ charities is launching on November 16th on Prohibition.

You can sign up through Heymint early to get access when it goes live and to win a free gift to redeem on Prohibition.

The art is in celebration of drag and was made in collaboration with 5 international and diverse queer artists who won an Open Call in collaboration with Hug.

The beneficiaries include Outright International and Pose star and activist Angelica Ross’ Transtech Social.

For more information on the upcoming mint and project check out their website here.

Quick Headlines

AI Corner

Humane, an AI startup by ex-Apple designers, unveiled a $699 AI Pin, a wearable device aimed to replace smartphones. Equipped with voice control, a laser display for interactive visuals on the palm, and a T-Mobile data subscription, the AI Pin facilitates calls, texts, and information queries without constant listening. Users can access AI services from the web, including music through Tidal, and view content on Humane's web app.

The AI Pin, set to accept orders from November 16, also tracks health data and schedules.

This Week We’re Bullish On

Dr. Joy Buolamwini

Dr. Joy Buolamwini, a renowned computer scientist and digital activist with a PhD from MIT, has emerged as a pivotal figure in the AI revolution. Known for her critical work in exposing biases in modern technology, especially in facial recognition systems that fail to accurately recognize darker skin tones, she has been instrumental in raising awareness about the need for ethical AI practices. Her efforts are further encapsulated in her book "Unmasking AI," where she delves into her journey of advocating for "algorithmic justice" and striving to instill humanity back into technology.

Positive Affirmation for This Week

“I am deliberate and afraid of nothing."

- Audre Lorde

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With gratitude,