What are the current and future trends and innovations in AR and VR for logistics?

1 AR for warehouse operations

One of the most common and effective applications of AR in logistics is to support warehouse operations, such as picking, packing, sorting, and inventory management. AR devices, such as smart glasses, headsets, or tablets, can provide workers with real-time information, guidance, and feedback, through visual, audio, or haptic cues. For example, AR can show workers the optimal route, location, and quantity of items to pick, highlight errors or discrepancies, and verify tasks completion. This can increase accuracy, productivity, quality, and ergonomics, while reducing errors, costs, and training time.

2 VR for training and collaboration

Another promising use of VR in logistics is to provide immersive and interactive training and collaboration platforms for workers, managers, and customers. VR can create realistic and customized scenarios and environments, where users can learn, practice, and test their skills and knowledge, without the risks, costs, or limitations of the real world. For example, VR can simulate hazardous or emergency situations, complex or rare procedures, or new equipment or systems, and provide feedback and assessment. VR can also enable remote and collaborative learning, where users can interact with each other, share information, and solve problems together.

3 AR and VR for customer experience

AR and VR can also enhance the customer experience and satisfaction in logistics, by providing more transparency, engagement, and personalization. AR and VR can enable customers to visualize, explore, and customize products and services, before, during, and after the purchase. For example, AR and VR can show customers how products would look or fit in their desired location, allow them to modify or configure features or options, and provide them with instructions or support. AR and VR can also provide customers with more information and visibility on the status, location, and condition of their orders, deliveries, and returns.

4 AR and VR for sustainability

Finally, AR and VR can contribute to the sustainability and environmental goals of logistics, by reducing waste, emissions, and resource consumption. AR and VR can help optimize the use of space, energy, and materials in warehouses and transportation, by providing data-driven insights, recommendations, and alerts. For example, AR and VR can help monitor and control the temperature, humidity, and lighting of warehouses, adjust the loading and routing of vehicles, and detect and prevent defects or damages. AR and VR can also reduce the need for physical travel and transportation, by enabling virtual visits, inspections, and meetings.