It’s incredible to think how much the internet has transformed in such a short period of time. In just a few decades, we’ve seen it evolve from a basic information-sharing platform into today’s rich, interactive experience.
This evolution is generally discussed in terms of “Webs” – Web 1.0 being the earliest stage to Web 3.0 representing the future of the internet. Let’s take a look at how each Web has changed the online world.
Web 1.0: The Static Web
In the early-to-mid 1990s, Web 1.0 reigned. It was primarily focused on one-way publishing via static websites and basic forums. Users could find and consume information, but not truly contribute or interact on the internet.
Sites were mostly HTML-based with little formatting options. Search engines like AltaVista helped people discover content, but the experience felt limited.
Web 2.0: The Social Web
The past 15 years saw the rise of Web 2.0 starting in the mid-2000s. It brought user-generated content to the forefront through social media platforms like Facebook, blogs, YouTube and Wikipedia.
People could now shape online experiences through sharing photos/videos, opinions in comments, and curating content. Dynamic and interactive features enriched the internet with endless user participation and collaboration.
Web 3.0 – The Intelligent, Decentralized Web
Exciting advancements on the horizon point to Web 3.0. Powered by technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, augmented reality and the Internet of Things – this stage will take interactivity much further.
Some predictions include AI personal assistants, decentralized applications, immersive virtual worlds and an internet where “data is available to be used by anyone, anywhere, for any purpose.”
The evolution from primarily read-only to highly interactive and now towards an intelligent decentralized internet has radically changed our experience online. Web 3.0 promises to make the future even more fascinating as technologies continue blending the digital and physical worlds in new ways.
