In case the metaphors have been too opaque lately, the metaverse is now being used on caged livestock to see if simulated freedom yields more milk. The Sun reports on a Turkish farmer who’s fitting his cattle with VR headsets, which, indeed, increased their dairy production.

A farmer using expensive technology to give his animals an emotional boost and stress relief while cooped up during the winter is sort of sweet. But an all-powerful overseer placating his subjects with a virtual reality while draining them of their bodily resources is the literal plot of The Matrix.

So which one is this? I guess we get to pick. Ah, freedom of choice. Thank the metaverse. Long live the Architect.