62% of the French do not see the point of virtual worlds

The research firm iligo has unveiled the 13th edition of its multi-screen Usage Barometer. This analyzes the perception, digital use and evolution of the relationship of the French to new technologies. The 2022 edition is particularly interested in the metaverse and virtual worlds. This survey is based on the responses of 1,000 respondents between February 28 and March 13, 2022, aged 18 to 64, and is representative of the French population in terms of gender, age, CSP and UDA5.

18-34 year olds have a broader perception of the possibilities offered by the metaverse

The barometer shows that the metaverse is known to 56% of the French who responded to the survey and who claim to have heard of it: 68% of 18-34 year olds, 56% of 35-49 year olds and 43 % of 50 year olds -64 years old. year. The differences are significant in the perception of the metaverse depending on age. Indeed, 18-34 year olds are the ones most likely to consider meeting new people in the metaverse (75%, compared to 61% of 35-49 year olds and 49% of 50-64 year olds) and who do so most perceive it as a way of interacting differently (84%). (see photo above)

The metaverse was seen by the French as an entertainment space

For the French, the metaverse is especially essential as a means of entertainment. This is what 81% of respondents say, while 77% believe the metaverse would be a way to escape the real world. It is also intended as a space for exchanges and encounters. For example, 71% of respondents see it as a way to share common interests and 66% as a way to meet without health restrictions.

The three main activities that the French are most looking forward to within the metaverse are the following:

• Watch a movie (74%),
• Attending courses, conferences and training (72%),
• Go to an exhibition or museum (65%).

It can also be noted that, on the one hand, shopping is mentioned by 59% of the respondents. The metaverse thus represents new opportunities for brands such as Nike, which has created a virtual world, Nikeland, in which players can participate in mini-games and equip their avatar with branded products. On the other hand, financial benefits through investments or the acquisition of virtual land or cryptocurrencies are not yet conceivable for a majority of respondents.

Mistrust of the French in terms of data protection

Thinking of it as an entertainment space, the majority of French people surveyed reported having major obstacles to using the metaverse. 75% of them say the threats and dangers of virtual worlds (such as addiction or cyberbullying) are the main obstacle to using the metaverse. 72% of respondents also underline the lack of security regarding personal data, while 6 out of 10 French people (62%) believe that they see no interest in virtual worlds.