XR Development Applications

Most people think #VR in enterprise is all about training. At MARIN (Maritime Research Institute Netherlands), it goes much further than that. Giorgio Ballestin, PhD walked me through how his team answered a very difficult question: What if a ship has not been built yet, and you need to know whether a deck operator can safely perform their job in 5-meter waves? They put an operator in a VR headset, on a motion platform, inside a CAVE system that replicates the bridge of a ship that exists only on paper. The deck operator walks the length of the virtual vessel, grabs a messenger line, and judges the threshold where the operation becomes unsafe. This advanced simulation was built out of several parts: - Multiple people in the same scenario, each in a different physical location, experiencing different perspectives of the same vessel - An expert seafarer acting as instructor, controlling traffic behavior in real time - Researchers collecting data on where people look, how they respond, what breaks down under pressure - Physical objects tracked and overlaid in VR to preserve haptic feedback without losing visual coherence This was such an interesting angle that people don't talk about enough. The goal is never training. It is answering questions that would otherwise require building the real thing first. Make sure to check out the full interview on the XR AI Spotlight Newsletter (link on the contact info on my profile)

While the world continues to be captivated by the advances in Artificial Intelligence, there’s another silent revolution unfolding, one that’s not just powering minds, but enhancing how we perceive, feel, and engage with reality. 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 (𝐀𝐑), 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 (𝐕𝐑), 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 (𝐗𝐑) 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐧𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐬 They are here, they are practical, and they are solving real-world problems in ways traditional technology cannot. In India, where the challenges of geography, affordability, access, and diversity intersect, AR, XR, and VR are becoming critical enablers of transformation—especially when integrated thoughtfully with AI. India is emerging as not only a fast adopter but also a high-potential creator in this space. In the 🎯 healthcare sector, Indian giants like Apollo Hospitals and healthtech platforms like MedAchievers have adopted VR-based training and patient rehabilitation. AR-assisted surgeries are helping surgeons visualize and execute complex procedures with higher precision. In the 🎯 manufacturing and heavy engineering sector, Tata Motors and Larsen & Toubro are leveraging AR for remote diagnostics, equipment training, and quality control on the assembly line. VR simulations are replacing costly physical prototypes in the design stage, and digital twins powered by XR are reducing error margins and boosting productivity—proven to increase operational efficiency by up to 30% according to McKinsey. 🎯In Rajasthan, VR-enabled science labs are enabling students in government schools to explore anatomy and physics beyond textbooks. 🎯 Real estate has embraced immersive technology with open arms. Noida-based startup SmartVizX has transformed project walk-throughs using VR, allowing clients—especially NRIs—to explore properties remotely. Top brands like Godrej Properties and DLF have reported a 25–30% higher lead conversion using VR-assisted sales kits. 🎯 Retail and e-commerce too are evolving beyond product images. Lenskart’s AR-powered virtual try-on, Tanishq’s immersive try-before-you-buy feature, and Reliance Trends’ AR dressing rooms are reducing product return rates and enhancing buyer confidence. These experiences build brand loyalty in an increasingly digital-first customer base. 🎯 In the tourism and culture sector, the Archaeological Survey of India and Incredible India campaigns have begun integrating AR/VR for virtual explorations of monuments like Hampi, Ajanta Caves, and Konark. We must not overlook the invisible interface layer that makes all this accessible, experiential, and real. AR/VR/XR is not just about entertainment or gaming; it’s about operational transformation, deeper engagement, and scalable problem-solving. If AI is the brain, XR is the nervous system connecting, visualizing, and enabling actions across sectors. #augmentedreality #virtualreality

This week's defining shift for me is that XR is a practical tool for reducing real-world risk. It helps people see what they are dealing with before they commit to a choice or an action. Teams can spot problems before they happen, drivers can get comfortable with harder scenarios before hitting the road, and shoppers can get a better feel for fit and style before purchase. Better awareness at the start tends to pay off later. This week’s news surfaced signals like these: 🏎️ Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 is using TeamViewer’s AR tools to speed up how its test rigs are put together. Engineers can point a tablet at the setup and see step-by-step guidance placed directly on the hardware. The overlays come from the team’s CAD files and help staff check part placement and confirm that everything is ready before testing starts. 😎 Tom Ford Fashion has added an AR try-on feature for its eyewear on its online stores. The experience, powered by Perfect Corp., uses a person’s pupillary distance to show frames at the right size on their face. This gives shoppers a more accurate sense of how different styles will look and can help cut down on returns. 🚘 South Carolina State University opened a VR training lab for commercial drivers, using full-size simulators to prepare people for roadway hazards such as fatigue, congestion, and aggressive driving. The system also captures physiological data to support safety research and improve training design. Why this matters: Tools that help people understand things earlier can lead to better outcomes. XR does this by making moments that used to feel uncertain easier to anticipate. As more organizations adopt it, the technology becomes a powerful way to bring more confidence into everyday decisions. #spatialcomputing #XR #virtualreality #VR #augmentedreality #AR

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 & 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗯𝗶𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 🚀 For years, VR meant gaming. But things are changing—fast. Smaller, lighter, and far more portable devices are shifting the entire landscape. People want to take VR out of dedicated gaming rooms and into real-world applications. That opens up transformative possibilities across industries. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗳𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗼𝘄: We're seeing real-world impact in: ✦ **Workplaces**: Remote collaboration with spatial presence, 3D design review, virtual prototyping that saves millions in physical mockups ✦ **Healthcare**: Surgical planning with patient-specific anatomy, therapy applications reducing PTSD symptoms, pain management through immersive distraction ✦ **Classrooms**: Complex subjects becoming tangible—students manipulate molecules, walk through historical events, explore impossible-to-visit locations ✦ **Retail**: Virtual try-before-you-buy reducing returns by 40%, showrooms without inventory costs, personalized shopping experiences ✦ **Training**: High-risk scenario practice without real-world consequences—pilots, surgeons, first responders all training safely 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝗱𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗮𝗱𝗼𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Form factor evolution changed everything: 1️⃣ **Wearable devices**: Quest 3 weighs slightly more than 500g—comfortable for 2-3 hour sessions 2️⃣ **Quality passthrough**: High-resolution mixed reality keeps you connected to physical environment 3️⃣ **Instant setup**: No base stations, no wires, no dedicated space requirements 4️⃣ **Professional ROI**: Companies see measurable returns—faster training, fewer errors, cost savings 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆: Gaming proved XR technology works. Enterprise, education, healthcare, and creative industries are now adopting it because results are measurable: - VR training: 70% faster skill acquisition - MR architecture: 30% reduction in design revisions - AR surgery: 40% fewer complications The applications beyond gaming aren't just interesting—they're transforming how entire industries operate. What non-gaming XR application excites you most? #VirtualReality #AugmentedReality #XR #Innovation #FutureOfWork #Enterprise #DigitalTransformation #MixedReality #Technology #BusinessInnovation #Training

Google Maps and Street View: A Strategic Advantage in XR over Meta In the XR (AR/MR) landscape, Google holds a natural advantage thanks to Google Maps and Street View, offering a unique foundation for immersive applications. Why it matters: - Global coverage & updates: billions of points and 360° panoramas enable realistic XR environments without extra scans. - Precision geolocation: virtual objects can interact seamlessly with the real world. - AI synergy: Google Gemini and TensorFlow enrich maps with context in real-time. Use Cases: - Tourism: virtual city tours with realistic exploration before visiting. - Retail: AR storefronts overlay real streets and shops. - Logistics & Training: simulate warehouses, routes, and tools in AR. - Social XR: meet in virtual spaces replicating real locations. Strategic Edge: Google has instant access to real-world data, global scalability, and AI-enhanced experiences—while Meta builds virtual worlds from scratch. 🌐 Question: Will ready-made real-world data decide who dominates XR? #XR #AR #MR #GoogleMaps #StreetView #SmartGlasses #DigitalTwin #AI #Innovation #FutureTech

🔬 Earlier this year, a research paper was published in a American Society of Civil Engineers journal and it evaluated the efficacy of finding operability issues using #VR. Spoiler alert: VR was *very* effective. 📝 The research seized a rare opportunity to scientifically compare two instances of the same building. One building was a control that didn't use VR and the other used VR. ⚠️ On the $600M project, the research found that 93% of the operability issues found in VR were not found by traditional methods. “the identification of 86 previously unidentified issues added value to the MEP coordination process by increasing the quality of the facility design and, more importantly, preventing issues during the building’s operations phase.” Girgin et al. (2023) This research is groundbreaking progress in quantitatively demonstrating that XR reduces late stage changes on construction projects, especially in mission critical projects where operability after turnover is of high importance. I'm excited for the industry to continue reducing project risk using immersive tools like Resolve and even more excited to see more quantitative data backing up the use of the technology!

Just published: "Modernizing Onboarding at Accenture with Immersive Learning" in MIS Quarterly Executive: https://lnkd.in/gGWYmwkj If your company is still onboarding employees with asynchronous training modules, you'll want to read this article. Jeff Mullins and I share how Accenture delivered a globally consistent onboarding program, the New Joiner Experience (NJX), featuring extended reality (XR). Launched in 2021, NJX centers around One Accenture Park, a virtual campus where new employees collaborate, explore company innovations and career paths, and build their Technology Quotient. This immersive onboarding experience has been very successful, with over 400,000 employees participating as of December 2024. Employees consistently rate it over 4.6/5, and Accenture has achieved a positive return on investment, initially driven by reduced travel costs. Beyond financial benefits, XR-based learning has improved knowledge retention and strengthened employee engagement. Accenture’s journey offers five key lessons: 1.       Scale Will Not Happen Without Senior Management Support 2.       Make XR a Part of a Larger Immersive Learning Experience 3.       Web-Based Access Is Effective, for Now 4.       Unsolicited Social Media Posts Provide Insight into Employee Sentiment 5.       Deliver an Immersive Learning Product, Not a Project Thank you to all the Accenture leaders for sharing your journey and lessons with us: Aaron Saint, Jason Warnke, Katy Geraghty, and Olly Jeffers. Shout out to to Yorke Rhodes III of Microsoft for being a fellow XR traveler in and outside of the classroom. Thank you also to the MISQE team: Iris Junglas, David Kimble, and Joaquin Rodriguez. Brian Fugate--this collaboration happened because of you! Thank you for serving as our Associate Dean for Graduate Programs and Research at the University of Arkansas ­- Sam M. Walton College of Business! Feeling grateful.

Niantic’s GDC Power Move: Spatial Computing, VPS, and a New Era Beyond Pokémon GO If you’ve been to GDC, you know the real action isn’t in Moscone. It’s offsite, in the private events, the pop-ups, the executive dinners where the next decade of gaming gets shaped over cocktails and handshakes. And this year, Niantic made a power move. Fresh off selling Pokémon GO to Scopely for $3.5B, Niantic just hosted their own mini-conference, laying out a vision that could make them one of the most important XR players of the decade. Forget just AR games—this is geospatial AI, real-world mapping at an unprecedented scale, and a spatial computing platform that enterprises should be paying attention to. Why This Matters for XR • 1 million activated VPS locations – They aren’t just building maps, they’re owning reality. • Scaniverse + Photon – A 3D scanning pipeline for businesses that can digitize the world in minutes. • AI-enhanced geospatial intelligence – Think Google Maps on steroids, with centimeter-level accuracy. • Enterprise play incoming – Smart cities, logistics, retail, real-world navigation—Niantic isn’t just in gaming anymore. What’s happening here is data gravity—Niantic has the largest real-world dataset of scanned locations, and they’re turning it into an infrastructure play. This isn’t just a pivot, it’s a takeover move. Most of XR’s biggest players are still figuring out their long-term play—Apple’s Vision Pro is still niche, Meta’s pushing AI hard, and Snap is Snap. But Niantic? They have the real-world data no one else does. If they execute, they could be the geospatial backbone of XR, AI, and the spatial internet. Swipe through the slides and tell me—does this change how you see Niantic? #Niantic #XR #GDC #SpatialComputing #AI #AugmentedReality #FutureOfTech

XR Failed for 15 Years. AI Might Finally Make It Worth Wearing. XR—short for extended reality, including augmented, virtual, and mixed reality—has been the “next big thing” since 2010. At this week’s Google I/O, they quietly unveiled Android XR glasses fused with Gemini artificial intelligence. No hype. No moonshot keynote. Just a product that might finally make XR useful. It got me reminiscing. Nearly 15 years ago, we partnered with Columbia’s computer science department to bring BIM into the field using AR. The software didn’t exist—we built it. The headsets cost $15K. Real prototypes. No users. Unaffordable. Unwieldy. Unaware. Unloved. We were too early. Why? Because XR never had what disruptive tech needs: The right tools, the right context—and social acceptance. Strap something to your face in a professional setting, and you’re not amplifying your presence. You’re blocking it. Just ask the Apple Vision Pro user quoted in The Wall Street Journal: “It looks like you’re wearing ski goggles at work.” He sold his $3,500 headset for $1,900 and doesn’t miss it. XR didn’t fail from lack of power. It failed because it got in the way. But that might be changing. Google’s new XR glasses aren’t just wearable—they introduce artificial spatial intelligence: AI that sees what you see, hears what you hear, and helps before you ask. If they’ve finally figured that out, the use cases could be game changing: •Data centers: Eliminate blind spots—thermal spikes, stray loads, cable faults—all shown visually in real time •Healthcare: Surgical assistance, patient history overlays, disease detection—an on demand AI clinician •Construction: Safety hazard analysis, progress monitoring, quality assurance—hands-free, on-site This isn’t about whether Google nailed it. It’s about whether XR finally has the ecosystem it’s always needed. XR didn’t fail from lack of vision. It failed by blocking the view. #AI #XR #SpatialComputing #IntelligenceAugmentation #SmartOps #BuiltEnvironment #DataCenters #HealthcareInnovation

I'm thrilled to share the latest episode of Connected in 3D: Real-Time Solutions & Digital Twins! This week, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Paul Davies, Technical Fellow of Immersive Technologies at Boeing. We dive deep into how Boeing is revolutionizing manufacturing with XR—from reducing defects by 80% on the 767 tanker wiring project to enabling first flights through AR innovation. 🎙️ Here are some key highlights: 1️⃣ How Boeing started exploring AR for high-value manufacturing use cases in satellites as early as 2006, even before headsets were practical. 2️⃣ The game-changing impact of AR on reducing production time and defects with real-world case studies from defense, commercial, and service sectors. 3️⃣ Insights into scaling AR and digital twin solutions across Boeing’s diverse programs while overcoming challenges like IT integration and hardware limitations. 4️⃣ The importance of being platform-agnostic and how Unity XR is helping Boeing future-proof their immersive applications. 💡 Paul also shares some amazing advice for manufacturers starting their journey with XR: “Start small, solve a well-known problem exceptionally, and scale from there. Prove the value and watch leadership embrace the tech organically.” This is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of XR and its tangible impact on global industries. 🌍 👉 Tune in now: https://lnkd.in/gm3gc2Bz https://lnkd.in/g-7Q64ki https://lnkd.in/g9EthpJr I’d love to hear your thoughts on how your organization is leveraging XR or exploring digital twins! Let’s discuss in the comments. #XR #DigitalTwins #Innovation #Manufacturing #Boeing #ConnectedIn3D #AR #SpatialComputing