At the 5G Immersive Lab, we host a variety of events exploring immersive technologies enabled by 5G connectivity. Our guests – ranging from SMEs representatives to members of the general public – come from different stages of their immersive journeys. To ensure everyone is on the same page, we’ve compiled these 16 key facts.

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Key Terms, Names & History of Immersive‍

1. XR stands for Extended Reality.

XR is the umbrella term for AR (Augmented Reality, which overlays digital content onto the real world), MR (Mixed Reality, which blends virtual and physical environments), and VR (Virtual Reality, which immerses users in fully digital spaces).

2. Immersive technology isn’t just XR.

Immersive technology also includes projections, interactive installations, spatial audio, and more.

3. XR history dates back to the 1960s.

From early VR experiments like a multi-sensory machine Sensorama to the 1980s which saw the rise of early head-mounted displays (HMDs) and military flight simulators, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) played a key role in spatial computing. In the 2000s, AR gained traction with applications like ARToolKit, leading to modern advancements powered by AI, 5G, and spatial mapping.

4. The number of VR hardware users are projected to exceed 130 million by 2027.

Meta Quest, now in its third generation, offers affordable mobile headsets. For those looking for alternatives that don’t require a Meta account, HTC's XR Elite or ByteDance's PICO are solid options. Apple Vision Pro delivers great resolutions, though as a first-generation device, it comes with a steep price tag. Meanwhile, Microsoft has stepped back from its HoloLens line up – could their next headset be on the horizon?

5. XR also includes haptic gloves, motion-tracking suits, and smart glasses.

Touch and movement are becoming integral parts of the immersive experience. Haptic gloves allow users to "feel" virtual objects, while full-body suits simulate sensations like heat, rain, and even impact. While VR shoes or omnidirectional treadmills solve the challenge of infinite movement in virtual spaces.

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Creation of Immersive‍

6. XR development is powered by game engines.

Games engines like Unity and Unreal provide real-time rendering and physics simulation. 3D modelling software tools like Blender and Maya help design immersive environments and assets. Together, they form the foundation for AR, VR, and MR experiences.

7. OpenXR enables XR applications to run across different headsets without constant adjustments.

Developed by the Khronos Group, OpenXR provides a unified API for cross-device compatibility, allowing developers to build once and deploy across various AR and VR hardware. Major companies like Meta, Magic Leap, HTC, and ByteDance have adopted OpenXR.

‍8. WebXR enables AR and VR experiences directly within web browsers, without requiring dedicated apps.

WebXR relies on WebGL and 3D frameworks like Three.js, A-Frame, and Babylon.js to render immersive graphics directly in the browser, eliminating the need for plugins. The next evolution, WebGPU, enhances performance for even richer experiences. Developers can also leverage platforms like Mattercraft, PlayCanvas, and 8th Wall to build and deploy WebXR content seamlessly.‍

9. You don’t need to code to create immersive experiences.

No-code and low-code tools make development accessible to everyone. These are just some examples of platforms, which allow users to design interactive experiences without writing code.

• For Augmented Reality: Blippar (UK), Lureo by Imvizar (IE), ZapWorks by Zappar (UK), and Reality Composer by Apple (US).
• For Virtual Reality: ShapesXR (US), FLOW by Luminous XR (UK).

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Examples & Projections

10.The global 360-degree camera market is projected to grow from USD 2.34 billion in 2025 to USD 22.86 billion by 2034. 

That is driven by increasing demand in entertainment, tourism, real estate, and security surveillance. This growth highlights 360º video as an accessible entry point for immersive content creators before exploring more complex XR projects.

11. Immersive tech adds to retail with virtual try-ons, navigations & holographic displays.

• ‍AR mirrors let customers see how clothes, makeup, or accessories look before buying using Snapchat/TikTok-enabled filters.
• Packaging is getting a makeover with AR, bringing products to life with dynamic content.‍
• XR-powered indoor navigation overlays digital directions onto store layouts, guiding customers to products, special offers, and real-time promotions.
  

12. AR advertising is expected to generate $8.0 billion globally by 2029.

The AR advertising market was projected to generate $5.2 billion globally in 2024, according to Statista. International brands have embraced AR ads, with studies showing they boost brand awareness, sales, and customer loyalty.

13. XR enhances Education through multiplayer classes set in realistic surroundings.

From interactive chemistry lessons to virtual vet training on handling livestock, from identifying hazards on construction sites to practicing high-altitude work, many schools and companies are adopting immersive classrooms. These simulations allow students and trainees to engage with complex topics in highly realistic virtual settings, without the risk of injury.

14. Immersive can be utilised in all major sectors.

Surgeons use VR for precision planning, architects bring blueprints to life with AR, and factory workers streamline production with virtual prototypes. Gamers dive into fully immersive worlds, while real estate agents offer virtual property tours.

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Where to Find Immersive Experiences

15. Immersive experiences are all around you– from AR trails to VR arcades.

Cities are embracing immersive technology in exciting ways! You might find an AR trail guiding you through historic landmarks, a VR experience in a local gallery, or an interactive exhibit at a heritage centre. Escape rooms, arcades, and even museums are using XR as part of their expos.‍

16. Immersive tech features at major events, spanning sectors like film, manufacturing, enterprise, and beyond.

From immersive competitions during film festivals like Venice, Cannes, and Sundance to industry events such as AWE, Raindance Immersive, Immersive Tech Week, LAVAL Virtual, and IEEE VR, as well as broader cultural gatherings like SXSW, these events showcase a wide range of XR content, making them all key destinations for creators and enthusiasts alike.

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Final Thoughts

If you want to learn more facts about Immersive technology, we invite you to explore the 5G Immersive Lab’s library, featuring books like  Defying Reality: The Inside Story of the Virtual Reality Revolution by David Ewalt and The Next Dimension by Tom Emrich.

We also collaborate with local to North East immersive companies, giving us access to unique experiences to put on our Lab’s headsets as well as exclusive insights from industry experts who join our workshops and events. You can also book a demo session – just let us know the sector you're most interested in, and we’ll curate a selection of experiences for you. Get in touch by emailing Jenna Ingoe at: jenna.ingoe@sunderlandsoftwarecity.com or pop into the 5G Immersive Lab in Eldon Square, Newcastle to speak to one of our Innovation Specialists.