Meta has quietly rolled out Meta Credits, a new digital currency for purchasing virtual goods in Horizon Worlds, its proto-metaverse platform. The currency has been introduced in the US, UK, and Canada over the past few weeks without any formal announcement, as noted by Road to VR.
Meta Credits can be purchased through the Horizon Worlds app on Meta Quest or via the mobile Meta Horizon app, with a rate of 300 Meta Credits for every 3 US dollars. Additionally, there are various bundles available that offer bonus credits to buyers.
These Meta Credits are intended for in-app purchases of premium virtual items within Horizon Worlds, but unlike Quest Cash, they cannot be used to buy hardware or accessories. Furthermore, Meta Credits are non-transferable between accounts, limiting their use to in-game purchases.
With the introduction of Meta Credits, Meta is continuing its push toward developing a digital economy within the metaverse. However, it remains unclear whether or how creators can convert the Meta Credits they earn into real-world currency.
Meta has also set age restrictions for purchasing Meta Credits. Users over 13 years old (depending on the region) can purchase the currency, while preteens (10-12 years old) must obtain permission from their parents through a parent-controlled Meta account. In April 2023, Meta opened Horizon Worlds to teens aged 13-17 in the US and Canada, with plans to extend this access to preteens by August 2024. Preteens in the US and Canada can now request access to Horizon Worlds through their parent-controlled accounts, with a global rollout planned soon.
While the introduction of Meta Credits marks a step forward in Meta's metaverse ambitions, it's important to note the potential risks of exposing younger users to unfiltered content and interactions in virtual environments like Horizon Worlds. As a precaution, it is recommended that parents carefully consider the implications of allowing their children to access these platforms.
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