The metaverse is one of the most hyped new technologies in recent years, but it’s too early to tell what role it might eventually play in logistics operations. One problem: the concept is still so new that the very definition of the term is still in flux.

However, analyst firm IDTechEx says one thing is clear: the gateway to the metaverse will be the virtual, augmented, and mixed reality (VR/AR/MR) headsets commonly used by gamers. By donning the bulky glasses, users can connect to an “extended reality” digital source of an online world.

Examples of these glasses include the Oculus-branded headset made by Meta (the company formerly known as Facebook), which is designed to connect users to a metaverse the company calls Meta Horizon Worlds….