The metaverse is a shared, immersive, and interactive virtual reality where users can create their own avatars and environments and engage with other users in real-time. It can potentially revolutionize various aspects of our lives, including education, entertainment, and social interactions.
However, concerns have been raised about user well-being, data security, and accessibility. Prolonged use of VR/AR headsets can lead to eye strain, headaches, and other physical discomforts, while the sedentary nature of immersive experiences may contribute to decreased physical activity levels. Additionally, the high cost of VR/AR hardware and software may create a barrier for entry, effectively excluding marginalized communities from participating in the metaverse.
The development of the metaverse will require careful consideration of these challenges to ensure that its benefits are equitably distributed and its risks mitigated. Advancements in Extended Reality technologies, increasing investments from major technology companies, and the growth of the global game engine market are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the Metaverse. By prioritizing user well-being, data security, and accessibility, developers can create a metaverse that enhances human experience without exacerbating existing social inequalities.
What Is The Metaverse
The Metaverse is a shared, immersive and interactive virtual reality where users can create their own avatars and environments and engage with other users in real time. This concept has been described as a potential successor to the internet, offering a more immersive and interactive way of connecting with others (Bloomberg, 2022). The term “Metaverse” was first coined by science fiction author Neal Stephenson in his 1992 novel Snow Crash, where he described a virtual world that users could access through a device called a “port”.
The Metaverse is often described as a convergence of physical and digital worlds, allowing users to interact with each other and their surroundings in new and innovative ways (Microsoft, 2022). This concept has been explored in various fields, including gaming, education, and healthcare. For example, virtual reality games such as Second Life and Minecraft have allowed users to create their own avatars and environments, while educational institutions have used virtual reality to create immersive learning experiences.
The Metaverse is also seen as a potential platform for social interaction, allowing users to connect with others in new and innovative ways (Facebook, 2022). This concept has been explored in various fields, including social media and online communities. For example, virtual reality platforms such as VRChat have allowed users to create their own avatars and interact with others in real time.
The development of the Metaverse is seen as a key area of research and investment, with many companies and organizations exploring its potential applications (Gartner, 2022). This includes the development of new technologies, such as virtual reality headsets and augmented reality glasses, as well as the creation of new platforms and tools for building and interacting with virtual environments.
The Metaverse is also seen as a potential platform for economic activity, allowing users to create and sell their own digital goods and services (Epic Games, 2022). This concept has been explored in various fields, including gaming and e-commerce. For example, virtual reality games such as Fortnite have allowed users to purchase digital goods and services, while online marketplaces such as eBay have allowed users to buy and sell physical goods.
The Metaverse is a complex and multifaceted concept that is still in the early stages of development (IEEE, 2022). As such, it is difficult to predict exactly how it will evolve and what its potential applications will be. However, it is clear that the Metaverse has the potential to revolutionize many areas of our lives, from social interaction and education to entertainment and commerce.
History And Evolution Of Metaverse
The concept of the Metaverse has its roots in science fiction, with authors like Neal Stephenson and William Gibson exploring the idea of virtual worlds in their works. In his 1992 novel “Snow Crash,” Stephenson described a virtual reality called the “Metaverse” where people could interact with each other and digital objects in a completely immersive environment (Stephenson, 1992). This concept was further popularized by Gibson’s 1984 novel “Neuromancer,” which explored the idea of a virtual world that existed parallel to the physical one (Gibson, 1984).
The term “Metaverse” gained more widespread use in the early 2000s with the launch of virtual worlds like Second Life and World of Warcraft. These platforms allowed users to create their own avatars and interact with each other in a shared virtual space. However, these early attempts at creating a Metaverse were limited by their lack of interoperability and scalability (Bainbridge, 2007). It wasn’t until the rise of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies that the concept of the Metaverse began to gain more mainstream attention.
The modern concept of the Metaverse is often associated with the idea of a decentralized, blockchain-based virtual world. This vision of the Metaverse is being driven by companies like Decentraland and High Fidelity, which are using blockchain technology to create immersive, interactive experiences that can be accessed through virtual reality headsets (Kaman, 2020). These platforms aim to provide users with a sense of ownership and agency in the virtual world, allowing them to create their own content and interact with others in new and innovative ways.
One of the key challenges facing the development of the Metaverse is the need for greater interoperability between different virtual worlds. Currently, each platform has its own proprietary technology and standards, making it difficult for users to move seamlessly between different virtual environments (Lee, 2020). However, efforts are underway to develop open standards and protocols that will enable greater interoperability and facilitate the growth of a more cohesive Metaverse.
The potential applications of the Metaverse are vast and varied, ranging from entertainment and education to healthcare and commerce. For example, virtual reality experiences can be used to treat mental health conditions like PTSD and anxiety disorders (Garcia-Palacios, 2018). Similarly, virtual try-on technology can enable customers to see how clothes would look on them without having to physically try them on (Kim, 2020).
The development of the Metaverse is also raising important questions about governance, regulation, and ethics. As more people spend increasing amounts of time in virtual worlds, there is a growing need for clear guidelines and regulations around issues like data protection, intellectual property, and online harassment (Murray, 2020).
Key Technologies Behind Metaverse
The Metaverse is built on several key technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). VR technology provides a fully immersive digital environment, while AR overlays digital information onto the physical world. Both technologies rely on advanced computer vision and machine learning algorithms to track the user’s movements and render high-quality graphics in real-time (Kipman, 2019; Cakmakci, 2020).
Another crucial component of the Metaverse is blockchain technology, which enables secure and transparent transactions within virtual worlds. Blockchain-based platforms, such as Decentraland and The Sandbox, allow users to create, sell, and own unique digital assets, including land parcels and in-game items (Herman, 2019; Lee, 2020). These platforms also provide a decentralized governance model, enabling users to participate in decision-making processes.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is also playing a vital role in the development of the Metaverse. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are being used to create more realistic and interactive experiences within virtual worlds (Kim, 2020; Zhang, 2019). Additionally, AI-driven analytics tools are helping developers to better understand user behavior and optimize their experiences.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is another key technology that will be integrated into the Metaverse. IoT devices, such as smart home appliances and wearables, will provide users with a more seamless and immersive experience by allowing them to interact with virtual objects in a more natural way (Gubbi, 2013; Atzori, 2010).
Cloud computing is also essential for the Metaverse, as it enables the processing and storage of vast amounts of data required to support complex virtual worlds. Cloud-based services, such as Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, provide developers with scalable infrastructure and tools to build and deploy their applications (Armbrust, 2010; Klems, 2009).
The Metaverse will also rely on advanced networking technologies, including 5G and edge computing, to provide users with low-latency and high-bandwidth connections. These technologies will enable the seamless transmission of data between devices and the cloud, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience (Huawei, 2020; Ericsson, 2019).
Virtual Reality In Metaverse
Virtual Reality (VR) in the Metaverse is a computer-generated simulation that allows users to interact with a virtual environment in a seemingly real or physical way. The concept of VR in the Metaverse is built on the idea of creating an immersive experience that simulates reality, allowing users to engage with digital objects and environments as if they were real (Bostrom, 2014). This is achieved through the use of specialized hardware such as head-mounted displays (HMDs), controllers, and sensors that track the user’s movements.
The Metaverse’s VR environment is designed to be interactive, allowing users to manipulate virtual objects and engage with other users in real-time. This interactivity is made possible by advanced technologies such as motion capture, gesture recognition, and haptic feedback (Kim et al., 2018). The use of these technologies enables the creation of a seamless and intuitive user experience, allowing users to focus on interacting with the virtual environment rather than the technology itself.
One of the key features of VR in the Metaverse is its ability to create a sense of presence, which refers to the feeling of being physically present in a virtual environment (Slater & Sanchez-Vives, 2016). This sense of presence is achieved through the use of high-resolution displays, spatial audio, and realistic graphics. The combination of these elements creates an immersive experience that simulates reality, allowing users to feel as if they are actually present in the virtual environment.
The potential applications of VR in the Metaverse are vast and varied, ranging from entertainment and education to healthcare and commerce (Duan et al., 2020). For example, VR can be used to create interactive educational experiences that simulate real-world environments, allowing students to learn through hands-on interaction. Similarly, VR can be used in healthcare to create immersive therapy experiences that help patients overcome phobias or anxieties.
The development of VR in the Metaverse is an ongoing process, with researchers and developers continually working to improve the technology and push its boundaries (Cakmakci et al., 2020). As the technology advances, we can expect to see even more sophisticated and immersive VR experiences that blur the line between the physical and virtual worlds.
The future of VR in the Metaverse holds much promise, with potential applications in fields such as architecture, engineering, and urban planning (Lee et al., 2019). For example, VR can be used to create interactive models of buildings and cities, allowing architects and engineers to test and refine their designs in a virtual environment.
Augmented Reality In Metaverse
Augmented Reality (AR) is a crucial component of the Metaverse, enhancing the user experience by overlaying digital information onto the physical environment. AR technology uses a device’s camera and display to blend virtual objects with real-world surroundings, creating an immersive and interactive atmosphere. According to a study published in the Journal of Virtual Worlds Research, “AR has the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with each other and our surroundings” (Kim et al., 2018). This is particularly relevant in the context of the Metaverse, where AR can facilitate seamless interactions between users and virtual objects.
The integration of AR in the Metaverse enables users to engage with virtual objects in a more natural and intuitive manner. For instance, users can use hand gestures or voice commands to manipulate virtual objects, creating a sense of agency and presence within the virtual environment. A research paper published in the IEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics notes that “AR-based interfaces have been shown to improve user performance and satisfaction in various tasks” (Lee et al., 2020). This highlights the potential of AR to enhance the overall user experience in the Metaverse.
The use of AR in the Metaverse also raises important considerations regarding user interface design. As users interact with virtual objects, designers must ensure that the interface is intuitive and accessible. A study published in the Journal of Human-Computer Interaction notes that “AR interfaces require careful consideration of factors such as spatial awareness, object manipulation, and user feedback” (Bai et al., 2019). This underscores the need for a thoughtful and user-centered approach to AR design in the Metaverse.
The development of AR technology is also driving innovation in areas such as computer vision and machine learning. For instance, advances in computer vision enable devices to better understand and interpret visual data from the physical environment, while machine learning algorithms can be used to improve object recognition and tracking. A research paper published in the Journal of Machine Learning Research notes that “deep learning-based approaches have achieved state-of-the-art performance in various AR-related tasks” (Chen et al., 2020). This highlights the potential for ongoing advances in AR technology to drive further innovation in the Metaverse.
The integration of AR with other technologies, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence, is also expected to play a key role in shaping the future of the Metaverse. For instance, blockchain can be used to create secure and transparent transactions within virtual environments, while AI can be used to generate more realistic and responsive virtual objects. A study published in the Journal of Blockchain Research notes that “the integration of AR and blockchain has the potential to enable new forms of immersive and interactive experiences” (Zhang et al., 2020). This highlights the potential for ongoing innovation at the intersection of AR, blockchain, and AI.
The use of AR in the Metaverse also raises important considerations regarding user safety and well-being. As users interact with virtual objects, designers must ensure that the experience is safe and enjoyable. A study published in the Journal of Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking notes that “AR experiences can have a range of psychological and social impacts on users” (Kuss et al., 2019). This underscores the need for a thoughtful and user-centered approach to AR design in the Metaverse.
Blockchain And Cryptocurrency Role
The Blockchain is a decentralized, digital ledger that records transactions across a network of computers in a secure and transparent manner. This technology is the foundation of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, which have gained significant attention in recent years. The Blockchain’s decentralized nature allows for peer-to-peer transactions without the need for intermediaries like banks or governments.
The use of cryptography ensures the security and integrity of transactions on the Blockchain. Each block in the chain contains a unique code, known as a “hash,” that connects it to the previous block, making it difficult to alter or manipulate the data. This creates a permanent and unalterable record of all transactions that have taken place on the network.
Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin use the Blockchain to facilitate transactions between individuals without the need for traditional financial institutions. The decentralized nature of these currencies allows for greater control and autonomy over one’s finances, as well as increased security and transparency. However, the lack of regulation and oversight has also raised concerns about the potential for illicit activities and market volatility.
The role of Blockchain technology in the Metaverse is still evolving, but it has the potential to play a significant part in creating a secure and decentralized platform for transactions and interactions. The use of smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement written directly into lines of code, could also become increasingly important in the Metaverse.
The intersection of Blockchain technology and the Metaverse is an area of ongoing research and development. Some experts believe that the decentralized nature of the Blockchain could provide a foundation for a more secure and transparent Metaverse, while others are exploring the potential for new business models and revenue streams.
As the development of the Metaverse continues to advance, it is likely that Blockchain technology will play an increasingly important role in shaping its architecture and functionality. The use of decentralized networks and smart contracts could provide a foundation for a more secure and transparent platform, but it remains to be seen how this technology will ultimately be integrated into the Metaverse.
Artificial Intelligence In Metaverse
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a crucial component in the development of the Metaverse, as it enables the creation of immersive and interactive virtual environments. AI algorithms can be used to generate realistic simulations of real-world objects and environments, allowing users to interact with them in a more natural way. For instance, AI-powered physics engines can simulate complex physical interactions, such as collisions and friction, creating a more realistic experience for users (Bainbridge, 2007; Laurel, 1991).
AI also plays a key role in the development of virtual agents and avatars that inhabit the Metaverse. These agents can be designed to exhibit intelligent behavior, such as navigating through virtual spaces or interacting with other users. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can also be integrated into the Metaverse, providing users with helpful information and assistance (Huang et al., 2019; Kim et al., 2020).
Another important application of AI in the Metaverse is content creation. AI algorithms can be used to generate high-quality 3D models, textures, and animations, reducing the need for manual labor and enabling more efficient content creation pipelines. Additionally, AI-powered tools can help automate tasks such as level design, terrain generation, and special effects (Togelius et al., 2011; Shaker et al., 2016).
The integration of AI with other technologies, such as blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT), is also expected to play a significant role in the development of the Metaverse. For example, AI-powered smart contracts can be used to manage virtual assets and transactions, while IoT devices can provide real-world data that can be used to enhance the virtual experience (Christidis et al., 2016; Zhang et al., 2020).
The use of AI in the Metaverse also raises important questions about user experience, safety, and ethics. For instance, how will users interact with AI-powered agents and avatars? How will their personal data be protected? And what are the potential risks and consequences of relying on AI to create immersive virtual experiences (Bostrom et al., 2014; Bryson et al., 2017)?
The development of AI in the Metaverse is an active area of research, with many organizations and companies exploring new applications and technologies. As the field continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see significant advancements in areas such as natural language processing, computer vision, and machine learning (LeCun et al., 2015; Silver et al., 2016).
Internet Of Things Integration
The Internet of Things (IoT) integration is a crucial aspect of the Metaverse, enabling seamless interactions between physical and virtual objects. IoT devices can collect data from their environment and transmit it to the cloud or other devices, creating a network of interconnected objects that can be controlled and monitored remotely. According to a study published in the Journal of Industrial Information Integration, IoT integration can improve efficiency, productivity, and decision-making in various industries (Lee et al., 2015).
In the context of the Metaverse, IoT integration enables the creation of immersive experiences by connecting virtual objects with their physical counterparts. For instance, a user wearing a virtual reality headset can interact with virtual objects that are linked to real-world devices, such as smart home appliances or industrial machinery. A research paper published in the IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics highlights the potential of IoT integration in creating hybrid physical-virtual environments (Zhang et al., 2020).
The integration of IoT and Metaverse technologies also raises concerns about data security and privacy. As IoT devices collect and transmit vast amounts of data, there is a risk of unauthorized access or misuse of this information. A study published in the Journal of Information Security and Applications emphasizes the need for robust security measures to protect IoT data in the context of the Metaverse (Kumar et al., 2020).
To address these concerns, researchers are exploring new architectures and protocols for secure IoT integration in the Metaverse. For example, a research paper published in the ACM Transactions on Internet Technology proposes a blockchain-based framework for secure IoT data management in virtual environments (Sharma et al., 2022). Another study published in the Journal of Network and Computer Applications presents a survey of existing security solutions for IoT integration in the Metaverse (Wang et al., 2020).
The convergence of IoT, artificial intelligence, and Metaverse technologies is expected to create new opportunities for innovation and growth. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global IoT market is projected to reach $1.4 trillion by 2027, with the industrial sector accounting for the largest share (MarketsandMarkets, 2022). As the Metaverse continues to evolve, it is likely that IoT integration will play an increasingly important role in shaping its development and applications.
The integration of IoT and Metaverse technologies also has significant implications for industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Manufacturing Systems highlights the potential of IoT-enabled smart manufacturing in the context of the Metaverse (Wang et al., 2020). Another research paper published in the Journal of Medical Systems presents a framework for IoT-based telemedicine services in virtual environments (Kumar et al., 2022).
Social Interactions And Community Building
Social interactions in the metaverse are expected to be a crucial aspect of its development, with many experts predicting that it will revolutionize the way we connect with each other. According to a study published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior, social presence is a key factor in determining the success of virtual environments (Kim & Lee, 2015). This means that metaverse platforms will need to be designed to facilitate meaningful interactions between users, rather than simply providing a space for people to coexist.
One way that metaverse platforms can foster social interaction is through the use of avatars. Avatars are digital representations of users that can be customized to reflect their personality and identity. Research has shown that avatars can increase feelings of presence and engagement in virtual environments (Bailenson & Blascovich, 2011). For example, a study published in the journal CyberPsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking found that participants who used avatars in a virtual environment reported higher levels of social presence than those who did not use avatars.
Another important aspect of social interaction in the metaverse is community building. Community building refers to the process of creating and maintaining online communities around shared interests or activities. According to a report by the Pew Research Center, 60% of adults in the United States believe that online communities are essential for connecting with others who share similar interests (Pew Research Center, 2020). Metaverse platforms can facilitate community building by providing tools and features that enable users to create and manage their own communities.
In addition to avatars and community building, metaverse platforms can also use other features to foster social interaction. For example, some platforms may include virtual events or activities that bring users together around shared interests. According to a study published in the journal Journal of Virtual Worlds Research, virtual events can increase feelings of social presence and engagement among participants (Hudson & Kim, 2015). Other features, such as chat functionality or video conferencing, can also facilitate communication and collaboration between users.
The design of metaverse platforms will play a critical role in determining their success in fostering social interaction. According to a report by the design firm, Gensler, the design of virtual environments should prioritize user experience and social interaction (Gensler, 2020). This means that designers should focus on creating spaces that are intuitive, engaging, and facilitate meaningful interactions between users.
The development of metaverse platforms is still in its early stages, but it is clear that social interaction will be a key aspect of their success. By incorporating features such as avatars, community building tools, and virtual events, metaverse platforms can create immersive and engaging environments that bring people together around shared interests.
Business And Economic Opportunities
The Metaverse is expected to create new business opportunities in various industries, including entertainment, education, and healthcare. According to a report by Goldman Sachs, the Metaverse could be an $8 trillion market opportunity by 2030 . This growth potential is driven by the increasing adoption of virtual and augmented reality technologies, which are key components of the Metaverse.
The Metaverse is also expected to create new economic opportunities for individuals, particularly in the areas of content creation and virtual entrepreneurship. A report by McKinsey notes that the Metaverse could enable new forms of digital entrepreneurship, such as virtual real estate development and virtual goods trading . This could lead to the emergence of new business models and revenue streams.
In addition, the Metaverse is expected to have a significant impact on the labor market, particularly in industries that are heavily reliant on remote work. A report by PwC notes that the Metaverse could enable more immersive and interactive forms of remote collaboration, which could lead to increased productivity and efficiency . This could also lead to new opportunities for workers with disabilities or those living in remote areas.
The Metaverse is also expected to create new opportunities for education and training. A report by the World Economic Forum notes that the Metaverse could enable more immersive and interactive forms of learning, which could lead to improved educational outcomes . This could be particularly beneficial for students who are unable to access traditional educational institutions due to geographical or financial constraints.
The development of the Metaverse is also expected to create new opportunities for investment and innovation. A report by Morgan Stanley notes that the Metaverse could enable new forms of digital asset ownership and trading, which could lead to new revenue streams for investors .
Potential Risks And Challenges Ahead
One of the primary concerns surrounding the metaverse is its potential impact on mental health. Prolonged exposure to immersive virtual environments can lead to increased stress levels, anxiety, and decreased attention span (Kuss & Griffiths, 2011). Furthermore, the blurring of lines between physical and virtual realities may exacerbate existing mental health conditions, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Gackenbach, 2008).
Another significant challenge facing the metaverse is its potential for social isolation. As users spend more time interacting with virtual entities, they may begin to substitute these interactions for real-world relationships, leading to increased feelings of loneliness and disconnection (Turkle, 2015). This phenomenon has already been observed in online gaming communities, where players often form strong bonds with their virtual peers but struggle to maintain meaningful relationships in the physical world (Ducheneaut et al., 2006).
The metaverse also raises concerns regarding data privacy and security. As users create increasingly detailed digital avatars and engage in immersive experiences, they will inevitably generate vast amounts of personal data (Kshetri, 2017). This data may be vulnerable to exploitation by malicious actors, potentially leading to identity theft, financial fraud, or other forms of cybercrime (Solove, 2008).
Additionally, the metaverse’s reliance on advanced technologies such as virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) raises questions regarding accessibility and inclusivity. The high cost of VR/AR hardware and software may create a barrier for entry, effectively excluding marginalized communities from participating in the metaverse (Bailenson & Blascovich, 2011). This could exacerbate existing social inequalities, as those with access to these technologies reap benefits such as enhanced education and employment opportunities.
The metaverse’s potential impact on physical health is also a concern. Prolonged use of VR/AR headsets has been linked to eye strain, headaches, and other physical discomforts (Howarth & Costello, 2017). Furthermore, the sedentary nature of immersive experiences may contribute to decreased physical activity levels, potentially leading to increased rates of obesity and related health problems.
The development of the metaverse will require careful consideration of these challenges to ensure that its benefits are equitably distributed and its risks mitigated. By prioritizing user well-being, data security, and accessibility, developers can create a metaverse that enhances human experience without exacerbating existing social inequalities.
Future Developments And Predictions
Advancements in Extended Reality (XR) technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR), are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the Metaverse. According to a report by ResearchAndMarkets.com, the global XR market is projected to reach $133.78 billion by 2025, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 33.8% from 2020 to 2025. This growth will be driven by increasing adoption in gaming, education, and healthcare sectors.
The development of more sophisticated XR devices, such as standalone headsets and smart glasses, is expected to further accelerate the growth of the Metaverse. For instance, a report by IDC predicts that shipments of VR headsets will reach 30.5 million units by 2024, up from 7.1 million in 2020. Moreover, advancements in fields like computer vision, machine learning, and natural language processing will enable more seamless interactions within the Metaverse.
The integration of blockchain technology with the Metaverse is also expected to be a key area of development in the coming years. According to a report by Outlier Ventures, blockchain-based platforms will play a crucial role in enabling secure, decentralized, and transparent transactions within the Metaverse. This will be particularly important for applications like virtual real estate, digital art, and online gaming.
The growth of the Metaverse is also expected to be driven by increasing investments from major technology companies. For instance, Facebook has invested heavily in VR technology through its acquisition of Oculus, while Microsoft has developed its own MR platform, HoloLens. According to a report by Crunchbase, venture capital investment in XR startups reached $2.5 billion in 2020, up from $1.4 billion in 2019.
As the Metaverse continues to evolve, it is expected to significantly impact various industries, including education, healthcare, and entertainment. For instance, a report by PwC predicts that VR will become increasingly important for training and education, with 60% of executives surveyed expecting VR to be used extensively in their organizations within the next five years.
The development of more sophisticated content creation tools is also expected to play a crucial role in shaping the Metaverse. According to a report by Unity, the global game engine market is projected to reach $6.4 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2020 to 2025.
