No More Sci-Fi: How XR Is Transforming Industry Today

These days, it’s becoming increasingly common for industries to adopt eXtended Reality (XR) technologies. But why are they choosing them? Let’s take a look at how XR is making an impact in the industrial field:

• Simulating complex environments: With Augmented, Virtual, or Mixed Reality, industrial environments can be replicated safely. That means workers can train for hazardous tasks—like operating heavy machinery or handling chemical processes—or practice emergency responses without any real-world risk.
• Hands-on training made possible: Industry 4.0 enables practical, immersive training using digital manufacturing and automation systems.
• Cost-effective and scalable: Physical training equipment is no longer necessary. Multiple employees can train simultaneously, even across different locations.

• Reduced risk: High-risk tasks are practiced in safe virtual settings.
• Better knowledge retention: Learning by doing and repeating tasks improves retention without wasting resources or causing downtime.
• Time and cost savings: Since no physical machines or tools are needed, training becomes significantly cheaper and faster.
• Greater accessibility and flexibility: Instructors don’t need to be physically present, and training sessions can be customized to suit different needs.

• Product design: Companies like Ford and Siemens use Virtual Reality to design and prototype vehicles and tools. This makes collaboration and testing much easier.
• Production: Volkswagen simulates its production processes to optimize lines and train workers. Boeing has shown improvements when switching from paper-based instructions to XR-based workflows.
• Work safety: This is one of the most widely adopted areas for XR. Shell has developed high-risk training scenarios to prepare workers for emergencies. CraneVR is another great example, simulating overhead crane operations in risky conditions.
• Maintenance: General Electric developed VR training modules for maintenance tasks. Meanwhile, the XRAILab team (part of the ADMIRABLE Research Group) is contributing to the REMAR project, which creates simulators for wind turbine and general industrial maintenance. These simulators speed up worker training, reduce the need for real equipment, and minimize downtime.
• Logistics: DHL uses XR to optimize warehouse routes and train staff to handle heavy loads safely.

As you can see, it’s all about empowering workers. They don’t need special skills to start using XR—but they do need to be open to trying it out. The more they use it, the more confident and capable they’ll become. It also helps them develop problem-solving skills, and improves communication and collaboration with colleagues.

Do you know of any other industries using XR? Let us know in the comments!

#VirtualReality #VR #Extended Reality #XR #Mixed Reality #MR #Industry

XRAI Lab. (2025, 15, 5). No More Sci-Fi: How XR Is Transforming Industry Today. – XRAI Lab. link