Techcrunch50, the list of 50 (actually 52) hot new tech start-ups being announced today focuses heavilly on virtual worlds. In a video (below) Michael Arrington and Jason Calacanis decribes the growth in virtual world technology and membership outside the US as a major trend. Also that the cost of setting up virtual worlds is falling.

Virtual worlds are a youth phenomena. So brand advertisers looking to reach that allusive 16 to 24 year old demographic should take note (See my previous post – Can the joy of text satisfy the brand builders? ).

Unfortunately for advertisers the business model making traction so far is mainly the selling of virtual goods. A phenomena also seen on Facebook. But there are some companies looking to develop virtual world advertising.