Charting the Future of XR in the European Union: Trends, Research Priorities, and Collaborative Opportunities

Abstract

Extended reality (XR) is emerging as a disruptor in several sectors of industry academia and society in general. In the European space, specifically, institutional and grassroot initiatives start formulating an ecosystem that can develop and proliferate the impact of immersive XR based virtual worlds. The European Union is embracing this disruptive technology with legislative, infrastructural and financial support. However, the inherent issues of this volatile, new technology are still present. Fragmentation, high technical overheads, digital literacy gaps, lack of standards and silos of knowledge and entrepreneurial activity prevent the widening of proliferation of the XR ecosystem. This panel aims to bring together XR experts, policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders from across the European Union to discuss the latest trends in immersive technologies (XR), identify critical areas for research, and explore opportunities for collaborative projects that address real-world needs. Through this dialogue we expect a fertile cross-pollination between industry and academia formulating partnerships for future XR activities and innovation. Thus, this panel aims to serve as a platform for aligning efforts and resources to maximize the impact of XR innovations across sectors such as education, healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment.