Working in virtual reality for a week made people less productive

Volunteers who spent a working week in a virtual-reality environment have reported more anxiety, lower productivity and migraines – which could have big implications for the future of work

By Matthew Sparkes

People working full-time in a virtual-reality environment have lower productivity and well-being, and increased anxiety, according to a new study.

The research shows that, despite companies such as Microsoft and Facebook owner Meta investing heavily in VR and the immersive virtual world of the metaverse, the technology isn’t yet ready for widespread use in the workplace, while some people may never be able to use it effectively.

Jens Grubert at Coburg University in Germany and …