Since Apple introduced its Vision Pro headset in June 2023, enterprises have been hesitant to adopt it. Analysts are still awaiting the emergence of killer apps that could drive widespread adoption of the VR headset. While businesses have identified potential use cases, they remain lukewarm about making significant investments until these compelling applications emerge.
Similarly, Meta Quest 3, which debuted in October 2023, has gained more traction among gamers. However, on the enterprise side, it shares a similar reception as Apple’s headset. It’s worth noting that the Quest 3 is more affordable, with the top-tier 512GB model priced at US$649.99, compared to the Apple Vision Pro’s US$3,499 price tag.
As it stands, the question of which device will offer enterprises the best value remains open. Here are five areas where businesses can potentially capitalise on these cutting-edge AR/VR headsets:
Training and simulation
Hands-on, real-world demonstrations are irreplaceable for training engineers, nurses, or technicians. However, global businesses now face the challenge of operating seamlessly across geographical barriers and overcoming operational hurdles.
This is one area where AR/VR headsets, like the Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3, can be particularly useful — particularly in training and simulation. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, for example, has adopted the Apple Vision Pro to improve its technical maintenance training.
The Vision Pro enables technicians to engage in detailed simulations using the Engine Shop app, which provides step-by-step instructions overlaid on 3D models of engine designs. This approach enhances the training process, reduces reliance on physical equipment, and helps minimise errors.
“We see Apple Vision Pro as a tremendous value-add that will improve our fleet availability and operations,” remarked Bob Tulleken, KLM’s vice president of Operations Decision Support. “Training our employees with spatial computing will lead to fewer costly errors because the most current information they need to do their job is there in front of them as they perform the task. This means we not only get vastly more efficient in our work, but also provide a better work environment for our employees to succeed.”
Building information modelling
Design flaws in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry can be costly, especially if identified after a building is completed. To address this, firms are increasingly using digital twins, which allow them to visualise designs more realistically and spot errors before construction begins.
One of the companies leveraging digital twin technology is Norwegian architecture firm A-lab, which has replaced renders and sketches with 3D models in VR. A-lab uses SentioVR, an independent software vendor, to create virtual walkthroughs for its proposed projects. To visualise the environment, prospective clients don Meta Quest 3 headsets.
The tech partnership was especially helpful for one of A-lab’s clients, which needed buy-in from local politicians for a redevelopment site.
“Using VR, the project’s outcome is going to be much better. We can incorporate feedback and speed up the design process,” noted Angie Mendez, the company’s Technology Director.
Real estate
Finding a house or an office space used to be a labour-intensive task, involving multiple property visits, scheduling viewings with owners and real estate agents, and spending significant time and energy. The introduction of AR/VR technology has changed the game both for property sellers and buyers.
For pre-selling condos, VR simulations offer clients an immersive experience of what it is like to live inside the property space. With the use of a headset like Apple’s or Meta’s, people can enter every space inside the virtual render.
For finished properties, clients can overlay digital information on physical spaces using AR technology, helping them determine whether certain furniture can fit into specific spaces or if the rooms are large enough for their needs. They can also analyse property details, assess damages, and receive home improvement recommendations.
AR/VR headsets also provide convenience for developers and realtors, allowing prospective clients to access all their properties while staying in a single location.
Collaboration and productivity
With the rise of work-from-anywhere set-ups, businesses and individuals need the flexibility to be creative and productive without being in the same physical space. To support this, Apple has partnered with developers to integrate collaboration and productivity tools into the Vision Pro headset.
SAP Analytics Cloud, for one, allows employees and executives to access their data dashboards and organise critical workflows within their virtual space. Through the Vision Pro, users can also explore data with contextual 3D maps and graphics.
“We are utilising Apple Vision Pro’s spatial computing capabilities with SAP Analytics Cloud and SAP Mobile Start. We believe that combining visionOS with generative AI will significantly enhance how enterprises operate. With SAP Analytics Cloud running on Apple Vision Pro, our customers can gain deeper insights from complex through more intuitive processes, and SAP Mobile Start offers access to all of SAP’s business applications and workflows in new, more effective ways,” stated Philipp Herzig, chief AI officer, SAP SE.
Meanwhile, Microsoft 365 and its AI companion Copilot, optimised for use with Apple Vision Pro, is said to offer benefits such as better data visualisation in Excel and easier content switching in MS Teams.
“Spatial computing has prompted us to rethink how professionals use AI tools. With Microsoft 365 and Teams on Apple Vision Pro, users can view and manage apps side by side, allowing for better organisation and coordination,” said Nicole Herskowitz, Vice President, Microsoft 365 and Teams.
Additionally, Apple introduced new functionalities for WebEx, Zoom, and Box on the Vision Pro, focusing on enhanced spatial computing capabilities for better virtual collaboration and data management.
Education
Traditional teaching methods cannot be replaced, but they must be supplemented in a digital-first society. Students are using tools like ChatGPT to simplify repetitive tasks, and teachers are increasingly looking for more innovative ways to capture kids’ short attention spans.
For a generation raised on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, AR/VR presents a significant opportunity to bridge learning gaps and present educational materials in a new and engaging way.
In 2023, Meta, in collaboration with VR Heroes and Poland’s National Research Institute (NASK), launched a series of free workshops in Poland to introduce AR and VR teaching techniques to educators. These workshops were designed for teachers at all levels and were held at Meta’s Warsaw community hub. They featured Meta Quest 2 headsets and dedicated educational apps, aiming to show how these technologies can be integrated into the classroom.
The training also included sessions led by NASK, which explored the impact of VR on students and provided best practices for the safe use of these technologies in educational settings. The goal was to equip teachers with the skills to leverage AR and VR in developing students’ creative skills and digital competencies.
According to academic research, VR can improve various learning outcomes such as comprehension, memorisation, student engagement, attention span, and motivation.
“Using AR and VR as educational tools changes the way of learning, increasing students’ cognitive processes and their engagement. I look forward to following the progress of the Meta VR and AR for education programme in Poland. I appreciate that Meta provides modern technological solutions and know-how to develop this project,” said Mark Brzezinski, US Ambassador to Poland.
In the broader context, the adoption of AR/VR headsets by academic institutions remains uncertain. Schools and universities will need to consider the return on investment and other priorities, particularly in regions where access to basic educational resources is still limited. The decision to integrate these technologies will depend on a careful assessment of costs and potential benefits.
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Foto: The Apple Vision Pro, Apple’s latest AR/VR headset, features advanced optics for immersive spatial experiences. Image courtesy of Roméo A.
