We are hearing a lot about AI and ChatGPT, and now, Extended reality, also known as XR, has also become a game changer for business owners. On the latest episode of The Small Business Show, Annie Eaton, the co-founder and CEO of Futurus, walks us through how small businesses can leverage XR. Annie has a new book on this very subject titled The Extended Reality Blueprint.
Key Takeaways
1. XR is an umbrella term that includes augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), and spatial computing. AR overlays digital information onto the physical world, VR immerses users in a completely virtual environment, and MR combines elements of both.
2. XR is effectively used for training in various industries, helping employees learn processes and safety practices in a risk-free virtual environment. Notable examples include Walmart’s safety training and Delta’s plane de-icing simulations, which allow employees to practice in realistic virtual settings.
3. Off-the-shelf XR content can provide affordable training solutions, such as fire extinguisher safety training. XR can enhance remote collaboration, with tools like Microsoft Mesh allowing teams to meet as avatars in virtual environments, fostering a sense of presence and engagement.
4. Eaton transitioned from a marketing role to becoming an XR expert, driven by her early interest in VR technology. Her company, Futurus, has grown over the past decade from a consultancy to a full development and production studio, and it is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
5. The XR hardware market is evolving rapidly, with new devices offering better quality, longer battery life, and improved wearability. Eaton sees potential for further books on entrepreneurial experiences and emphasizes the importance of exploring XR’s possibilities, highlighting its current scalability and practical applications.
"Extended reality is here, and it's here to stay, so there's still so much left to uncover. We've only scratched the surface." – Annie Eaton.
