Extended Reality Finds Application Beyond Entertainment

Extended Reality (XR) is an umbrella term that includes immersive technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality, forming a dynamic ecosystem of present and emerging innovations.?

AR and VR dominate the current XR landscape, driven by spatial computing, heralded as the next computing evolution. The fusion of human-machine interaction enables real-world information manipulation.??

XR is poised for significant growth with the advent of 5G and enhanced internet speeds. This technology facilitates virtual collaboration, revitalizing communication and business interactions. While consumer applications lead in the short term, long-term prospects highlight enterprise adoption and industrial integration. XR's trajectory suggests a shift towards portable, wearable computing devices, potentially replacing conventional PCs.?

According to BIS Research, the extended reality market is now valued at $54.58 billion growing at approximately 19% annually.?

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?1. In Education?

Education, the cornerstone of a skilled workforce, is undergoing a revolution with EdTech. This booming sector, projected to reach up to $404 billion by 2025, is embracing Extended Reality (XR) to create a future where learning transcends the limitations of traditional classrooms.??

According to BIS Research , US as a region leads in adapting AR and VR technologies.The U.S. augmented and virtual reality headset market is projected to reach $25.49 billion by 2033 from $1.08 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 36.45% during the forecast period 2024-2033.?

XR offers immersive and interactive experiences that have the potential to redefine education completely. Imagine students wearing AR/VR headsets and dissecting a virtual frog in a biology class or exploring the pyramids of Egypt from their desks. XR can break down geographical and resource barriers, making previously unimaginable learning experiences readily accessible.?

The shift to online education channels due to COVID-19 has highlighted the need for engaging and interactive learning methods. XR fills this gap by fostering a more hands-on approach. Imagine a history lesson where students can walk through virtual recreations of ancient battles or a language lesson where they can practice conversations with virtual characters. This level of engagement can significantly improve learning outcomes and retention of information.?

However, the accessibility of XR technology and the development of high-quality educational content are crucial hurdles.

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?2. In Healthcare?

Training healthcare professionals like doctors and surgeons is crucial, and XR offers a powerful solution. Medical students can now practice intricate procedures on virtual patients in a safe, controlled VR environment. Also, studies have shown VR training to increase retention rates and improve performance compared to traditional methods. For instance, the Mayo Clinic utilizes VR to train surgeons for minimally invasive procedures, leading to improved surgical skills and potentially better patient outcomes.?

Beyond training, XR can enhance diagnosis and treatment accuracy. Tools like AR glasses can overlay vital patient information onto a doctor's real-time view, allowing for quicker and more informed decisions.? For instance, Sutter Health , a US healthcare system, reported a 2-hour reduction in daily analysis time for doctors using AR glasses with Augmedix software. This not only improves efficiency but also allows for more focused patient interaction.?

XR facilitates remote collaboration between healthcare professionals. Specialists can join surgeries virtually using VR, offering real-time guidance to surgeons in remote locations. Additionally, AR can be used for telemedicine consultations, allowing doctors to remotely examine patients while visualizing their medical data through AR overlays.??

Moreover, XR can empower patients to take a more active role in their health. VR simulations can educate patients about their conditions and treatment options. Additionally, VR therapy is proving effective in treating phobias and managing chronic pain. For example, Limbix VR offers VR experiences to help patients manage anxiety and phobias.?

Moreover, based on the market intelligence report by BIS Research, “Global Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in Healthcare - Analysis and Forecast, 2019-2025”, the global AR and VR in healthcare market was valued at $1.08 billion in 2018 and is expected to reach $11.14 billion by 2025.??

3. In Retail?

XR technology is transforming the retail industry, creating exciting possibilities for retailers and consumers.??

XR enhances the customer journey, where VR allows customers to virtually try on clothes and makeup or even test-drive cars from the comfort of their homes. For example, the glasses retailer Warby Parker offers a VR app allowing customers to try different frames virtually. This eliminates concerns about size and fit, leading to more confident purchases and reduced returns.?

Moreover, AR can transform physical stores into interactive spaces. Customers can use their smartphones or tablets to view additional product information, see furniture pieces placed virtually in their homes, or even witness products come to life through AR animations. 宜家 Place, an AR app, allows users to virtually place furniture in their homes to visualize scale and style before buying.?

XR can also personalize the shopping experience. Customers can use VR headsets to navigate virtual stores curated based on their preferences. Additionally, AR mirrors in fitting rooms can recommend complementary items or offer styling suggestions. For instance, Macy's is piloting an AR fitting room experience where customers can see different outfit combinations virtually.?

XR technology is also boosting brand engagement. VR allows brands to showcase products in engaging and immersive ways. Either taking a virtual tour of a vineyard for a wine brand or exploring the features of a new gadget in a 3D environment, all is possible now. Moreover, these experiences can create a deeper connection with the brand and influence purchase decisions.?

AR games also incentivize customers to explore stores, discover new products, and participate in loyalty programs. This gamification element can make shopping fun and engaging, increasing customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. Sephora utilizes an AR app where users can virtually try on makeup and unlock rewards through gameplay.?

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4. In Defense and Aerospace??

In training operations, Extended Reality (XR) technologies are reshaping military and aerospace practices. Virtual Reality (VR) enables immersive combat training, offering soldiers realistic scenarios to refine skills without real-world risks. For instance, the US Army employs VR simulators for urban warfare training.

Similarly, VR enhances pilot training, providing realistic flight simulations and reducing reliance on costly flight hours. BAE Systems, Inc. utilizes VR for F-35 pilot training.??

Moreover, VR facilitates remote collaboration and maintenance training, allowing dispersed teams to work on complex tasks together, as seen in the US Air Force's exploration of VR for aircraft maintenance.?

In mission planning, Augmented Reality (AR) enhances situational awareness by overlaying real-time battlefield data for informed decision-making, as is exemplified by Lockheed Martin 's AR systems. VR aids in logistics planning by creating virtual replicas of operational environments, helping identify and address potential issues before deployment, a practice explored by the US Navy for shipboard operations.??

5. Construction?

The construction industry, long reliant on traditional methods, is experiencing a digital revolution fueled by Extended Reality (XR). Encompassing Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), XR offers a robust suite of tools that transform every stage of the construction process, from planning and design to execution and maintenance.?

Architects and engineers can utilize VR to create immersive 3D models of buildings, allowing stakeholders to walk through and interact with the design before groundbreaking virtually. This collaborative environment facilitates early identification of potential issues, leading to better design decisions and reduced rework costs. For instance, 艾奕康 , a global engineering firm, uses VR to conduct virtual design reviews with clients, ensuring their vision is translated accurately into the final product.?

Similarly, AR overlays can project building plans and blueprints onto real-world construction sites. This allows workers to visualize the finished structure and ensure accurate placement of elements like pipes, electrical wiring, and ductwork. Skanska , a leading construction company, utilizes AR headsets to overlay BIM (Building Information Modeling) data onto construction sites, improving communication and reducing errors.?

Moreover, VR can create realistic simulations of hazardous construction scenarios, such as working at heights or handling heavy machinery. This allows workers to practice safe procedures in a controlled environment, improving safety awareness and reducing the risk of accidents on real job sites. 卡特彼勒 a construction equipment manufacturer, offers VR training modules for operating heavy machinery, promoting safety and operator proficiency.?

AR can also provide step-by-step instructions for complex construction tasks, overlaying visual guidance onto a worker's field of view. This on-the-job training reduces reliance on physical manuals and improves knowledge retention, leading to a more skilled workforce. 柏克德 , an engineering and construction company, utilizes AR for on-site training, empowering workers with real-time information and guidance.?

Conclusion?

By enhancing visualization, improving collaboration, and promoting safety, XR can transform diverse industries, leading to more efficient projects, reduced costs, and a safer work environment.?

Interested to know more about the growing technologies in your industry vertical? Get the latest market studies and insights from BIS Research. Connect with us at [email protected] to learn more.?

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