The Metaverse: Walmart’s Latest Playground

It seems the retail titan Walmart isn’t just satisfied with dominating Walmart aisles; they’re eyeing a slice of the digital universe too. Patent filings reveal that Walmart is gearing up to jump headfirst into the metaverse, planning to offer everything from a virtual candy aisle to a digital garden gnome collection—all powered by its own cryptocurrency. Talk about innovative shopping!

What Are They Planning?

As of December 30, a flurry of trademark applications were lodged with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Among the seven applications submitted, we find mentions of:

• Virtual Goods: From electronics to toys and home decor, Walmart will be going virtual with its offerings.
• Digital Currency: Yes, we’re talking about the next digital cash craze that could rival buying groceries with Monopoly money!
• Nonfungible Tokens: The retailer plans to delve into the world of NFTs—expect virtual editions of beloved products flying off the digital shelves!

The Bigger Picture: AR and VR

Walmart is not stopping with just products. They are setting sights on emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). Imagine a 3D Walmart where you can pick out groceries using a VR headset while you’re still in your pajamas! Their application hints at using the Walmart brand in these virtual mediums, possibly including fitness coaching programs in VR—because what’s shopping without a little exercise, right?

Job Listings and Strategic Moves

In a twist that could only land in 2022, Walmart previously advertised a position for a “digital currency and crypto product lead”—a role that, oddly enough, seems to have vanished into the digital ether without a trace. If you’re reading this at home, it might be a great time to brush up your résumé if you fancy getting a piece of the crypto cake!

Walmart’s Track Record with Digital Innovation

Walmart’s digital ambitions don’t start and end with the metaverse. Long before the current buzz, in 2018, they began exploring blockchain technology for their supply chain and customer marketplaces. This position gives them a significant advantage as they step onto this new digital frontier. And let’s not forget the 200 Bitcoin ATMs they installed in collaboration with crypto ATM firm Coinstar. Now, if only they could throw in a few self-checkout robots while they’re at it!

The Big Opportunity

With analysts estimating the metaverse could generate a jaw-dropping $8 trillion in opportunities for retailers, it’s no surprise Walmart wants its slice of that virtual pie. And let’s be honest, if anyone can make our lives easier while delivering digital groceries directly to our VR fridges, it’s the folks at Walmart. Now, if they would only add a teleportation option to avoid the traffic!