Nike launches NFT platform, Steve Jobs Sandals sell for $200k

• According to reports, Nike has officially launched its NFT marketplace called “.Swoosh”, and is expected to have its first digital collection next year. 

• The NFT of the Birkenstocks sandals worn by Apple co-founder Steve Jobs has been sold for $218,750 after it was initially projected to be sold between $60,000 and $80,000.

The growing Non-Fungible Token (NFT) industry has garnered interest among brands in various industries with the likes of Nike, Spaceone Industries, and GIA FashionVerse representing the fashion and footwear ecosystem in style. According to reports, Nike has officially launched its NFT marketplace called “.Swoosh”. 

SWOOSH is a platform for @Nike’s virtual creations, for them to be more accessible and to onboard the next millions into the wonderful world of web3 and digital assets.

The marketplace is said to be in the beta phase, and it is expected that its first digital collection is launched in 2023. This means the rest of the year will be used to develop the platform and grow its user base. Digital sneakers, apparel, accessories, etc would form part of the virtual creations to be available next year. The company also plans to introduce a community challenge to allow members to co-create a virtual product with Nike. In addition, the winners would get an undisclosed amount of royalties on these virtual products.

Last year, Nike made a grand entry into the metaverse game after acquiring virtual sneakers and collectibles brand RTFKT in addition to the creation of its virtual world Nikeland. The company is therefore using similar tools and technologies in its newly launched marketplace. 

According to Ron Faris, general manager of Nike Virtual Studios, this initiative is a “gateway into the new digital era.”

Steve Job’s sandals sold for $200k as NFT

In other news, the NFT of the Birkenstocks sandals worn by Apple co-founder Steve Jobs has been sold for $218,750 after it was initially projected to be sold between $60,000 and $80,000.

The auction which was run from Nov. 11 to Nov. 13 saw 19 bidders offering between $15,000 to $175,000 to claim the sandals. In addition, the deal included the 360° digital representation of the sandals. This is said to be a 1-of-1 edition that comes along with the physical sandals with the “imprint of Steve Jobs’ feet.”  

Another remarkable activity that happened to the Web3 industry is the launch of a metaverse airport by the Bangalore International Airport in India. This was reportedly built on the polygon blockchain. 

This features a “virtual reproduction of Terminal 2 at the airport”. The idea is to enable users to interact with other travelers, go shopping in the digital world, and access entertainment.

Recently, Adidas also posted a promotional trailer for the upcoming FIFA world cup featuring Indigo Herz, its Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) in addition to other football stars.