With the continuous technological evolution, connecting with people worldwide is becoming more effortless and more realistic. Groundbreaking technologies like Apple's headset, Quest Pro, and an array of metaverse tools have significantly transformed the way we connect virtually. However, while these advancements have improved our lives, they have also led to a worrying counter-trend: the rise of sophisticated digital scams.
As AI technology improves, the creation of hyper-realistic deepfakes and convincing fake accounts are becoming an alarming reality. As an example, I recall a personal experience where I was tricked by an individual with a detailed LinkedIn profile, hundreds of connections, and a seemingly well-rounded resume. They sent thoughtful, personalized messages on Discord, which, to me, looked entirely credible. Unfortunately, I fell into the trap. This incident has made me realize that no matter how tech-savvy we become, we are all susceptible to online scams, thanks to rapidly evolving AI technology.
In-Person Connection: The Antidote to Digital Deception
This leads us to the rising importance and relevance of in-person events. Even with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) promising to make online experiences more immersive, the value of in-person events is not diminishing. Instead, it's increasing.
There's an irreplaceable human element to physical interaction. Meeting someone in person, having dinner with them, or even partying together provides us with a genuine sense of their character. It allows us to pick up on their energy, their demeanor, and their attitude, which are usually hard to gauge virtually. I find it challenging, if not impossible, to match the authenticity of such interactions through a video call, regardless of how advanced the technology may be.
Consider another of my experiences. During a pop-up city event in Zuzalu, I formed deeper relationships within a couple of months than I had in the preceding 1.5 years spent in the crypto web three sphere. This was an exceptional situation, but it highlights the incredible potential of in-person events. Even in shorter, three-day conferences, the depth of relationships I've managed to build is incomparable to those formed online.
The Future: A Balance of Digital and Physical
Yes, the value of virtual events will also continue to rise. The ability to convene, regardless of geographical limitations, will always be beneficial. However, in-person events that help people connect on a deeper human level aren't going away. In fact, their value will continue to rise alongside the virtual.
As the lines between our digital and physical lives blur, it is the people we can literally touch, the people we spend actual physical time with, who will remain the most authentic and trustworthy. After all, there's no deepfake or AI that can replicate the warmth of a shared laugh or the mutual understanding of a shared experience.
So, while we shouldn't abandon the digital world, it is essential to remember that sometimes the best way to connect is to disconnect. Sometimes, we need to step out of the metaverse and into a conference hall, a coffee shop, or a friend's living room. Because the value of meeting in person, connecting humanly, and experiencing things together will only keep growing.