How XR is transforming the way we work

Extended reality (XR) is not a futuristic concept; it’s already reshaping workplaces today. Across various industries, XR developers are leading a technological revolution, creating applications that redefine how teams communicate, iterate, and upskill.

As the costs of producing 3D data decrease, XR is becoming an increasingly vital tool in the modern workplace. With advancements such as multispectral cameras and LiDAR technology now available in consumer-grade hardware, companies can easily and affordably create digitized versions of real-world environments, products, and systems in Unity. These digital replicas enable the development of virtual tools that address critical business needs like cost reduction and operational efficiency. XR applications such as these also provide a common visual language that bridges gaps between interdisciplinary teams, allowing for greater collaboration without the need for extensive technical expertise.

To understand the impact of XR, it's important to explore the primary use cases driving its adoption in the workplace:

• Collaboration: XR applications are revolutionizing how teams work together, especially in remote environments. These tools enable real-time 3D presentations, remote facility inspections through digital twins, and instant visual insights for field technicians working in different locations.
• Simulation: From virtual industrial machines to airport visualizers, XR simulations enhance design iteration, stress testing, and process optimization. By incorporating real-time data, simulations such as these allow companies to analyze complex systems and improve operational efficiency.
• Education: With the increasing affordability of VR headsets, companies are deploying VR training modules to create low-stress, risk-free learning environments that improve knowledge retention, aid intermittent learning, and ensure uniform proficiency standards with built-in metrics tracking.
• Innovation: XR developers are not just solving existing problems; they are also discovering new ways to leverage 3D data for unforeseen benefits. The ability to repurpose and reinterpret this data leads to innovative solutions that can have a cascading impact across an organization.

The benefits of XR in the workplace

The developers profiled in our full e-book have demonstrated how targeted XR applications can unlock an array of organizational benefits. Here are just a few ways XR development delivers a significant return on investment:

• Reduced costs: XR applications can lead to substantial cost savings by reducing accidents, decreasing the need for physical prototypes, and speeding up development timelines through simulated iteration.
• Unburdened resources: Whether employees are learning to operate medical devices, airplanes, or industrial robots, XR training allows them to practice in a virtual space, freeing up physical resources for their primary functions.
• Increased safety: XR training improves safety by preparing employees for real-world challenges and hazardous scenarios without the associated risks. This not only keeps workers safe but also reduces a company’s liability for accidents or workplace injuries.
• Faster decision-making: XR-enabled analysis tools – such as Toyota’s airflow dynamics overlays or Vancouver Airport’s real-time 3D visualizations – provide actionable insights that allow for rapid optimization and problem-solving.
• Data liberation: XR tools break down the barriers to accessing and utilizing 3D data. By creating a common communication platform for artists, engineers, and product teams, XR makes it easier for teams to iterate and develop solutions together.

Explore the full potential of XR

These examples only scratch the surface of what XR can achieve in the workplace. To dive deeper into how real developers are pushing the boundaries of XR technology, download our comprehensive e-book. Inside, you’ll find in-depth profiles of innovative XR teams who are already transforming industries with groundbreaking workplace applications.

Discover how you can leverage XR to enhance your operations, boost efficiency, and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.