NFTs 2.0: applications beyond art
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You may have already heard of NFTs. You may even have thought they were just digital images sold at high prices. But that was just the beginning. Today, NFTs 2.0 are bringing about an evolution that goes far beyond art: we are talking about specific uses and applications that are already changing industries.
So, what exactly are NFTs?
In a nutshell, a non-fungible token (NFT) is a unique type of digital file that lives on the blockchain. That means it can’t be copied, faked, or exchanged for another of equal value.
In terms of functionality, the first wave of NFTs focused on art and digital collectibles. One example is TU Gallery, where you can access unique digital creations from artists around the world. But now, we are entering a new chapter: utility NFTs.
How are NFTs evolving?
In this new stage, the practical uses of NFTs in the real world are being identified. Thus, they are moving from being mere collectibles to having practical uses, helping to solve real problems such as identity verification, product traceability, content distribution, gaming, and even new ways of interacting with online communities. This is the evolution of NFTs that many have been waiting for.
The big difference with this new stage is that NFTs 2.0 no longer need to justify their existence. They are no longer a technological promise, but a reality with active use cases. They are part of the shift towards a more decentralized, secure, and digitally authentic Web3.
What are the most interesting applications of NFTs?
A digital identity that truly belongs to you
Thanks to NFTs applied to digital identity, we can prove our academic qualifications or professional experience quickly and securely without relying on third parties. These types of tokens allow us to store data such as university diplomas or medical certificates directly under our control, without intermediaries.
There are currently real projects working on this application of NFTs to ensure that our personal information belongs only to us.
Digital tickets that cannot be forged
This technology will put an end to illegal resales and duplicate tickets for events. Using NFTs for ticketing, digital tickets cannot be copied or resold without control. Some will even allow access to exclusive areas or extra benefits. In fact, there are already companies using NFTs for VIP experiences, creating new forms of customer loyalty.
From physical object to digital token
Another real-world application of NFTs is in the physical world. Some luxury products, such as watches, wine bottles, art, and even cars, can be linked to an NFT to guarantee their authenticity. There are also cases where real estate is divided into small parts represented by tokens, allowing for fractional ownership. This opens the door to a new form of investment in property.
Protecting creators’ rights
For those who make a living from creating music, art, design, or digital content, utility NFTs, thanks to blockchain and so-called smart contracts, make it possible to automate copyright payments every time a work is used or resold. This allows artists to protect their work more directly and transparently, reducing their dependence on intermediaries or traditional platforms.
Therefore, NFTs 2.0 bring this technology closer to a more practical and functional world, finding their place in real contexts and helping to solve specific problems, marking a before and after in how we interact with the digital world.
1. What exactly is an NFT?
An NFT (non-fungible token) is a unique digital file that lives on a blockchain. It cannot be copied, forged, or exchanged for another of equal value. It is like a digital certificate of authenticity and ownership.
2. How do NFTs 2.0 differ from the originals?
First-generation NFTs focused on digital art and collectibles. NFTs 2.0 have practical uses: they can be used for digital identity, tickets, product traceability, video games, and more.
3. What benefits do NFTs offer in real life?
They allow you to secure your digital identity, prevent ticket fraud for events, guarantee the authenticity of physical products, split ownership of real estate, and automate payments to creators without intermediaries.
4. Are NFTs only useful for art or games?
No. Although those were the first popular uses, they now have much broader applications in sectors such as healthcare, education, logistics, events, finance, and digital communities.
5. How can NFTs protect content creators?
Thanks to smart contracts, NFTs can automate copyright payments every time a work is used or resold, reducing dependence on intermediary platforms.
6. What is an NFT linked to a physical object?
It is a digital token that represents a real-world object (such as a watch, a car, or a bottle of wine). It serves to prove its authenticity, ownership history, and facilitate more secure transactions.
7. Do you need to be a tech expert to use NFTs?
Not necessarily. More and more platforms are making NFTs accessible to everyday users, with intuitive interfaces and simplified processes.
8. How do NFTs impact Web3?
They are a key piece in building a more decentralized web, where users have control over their data, identity, and digital assets, without relying on intermediaries.
Paid and Own Media Lead Telefónica Innovación Digital. Especialista en campañas publicidad online, con experiencia de 10 años en ejecución, optimización y análisis en todos los canales digitales.
