innovations today. And it’s emerging into almost every industry!
Believe it or not, there will be around 1.7 billion active mobile AR users worldwide by 2025, with over 30 million AR headsets in global shipments—that’s more than 12 times the number in 2020. This is huuuge!
But are we really surprised? I know I’m not. Augmented reality technology is and will continue to be a focus for everyone – users, marketers, and especially organizations. In fact, Google’s insights show that 61% of customers prefer retailers that offer different AR solutions.
So, what are the AR trends that we will see in 2025? Let’s find out!
- Generative AI and Personalization
When ChatGPT was made public back in 2022, a new era in artificial intelligence began. And as we’ve seen, Generative AI took over the world in 2023. But in 2025, it will also contribute to the advancement of AI technology. Combining Generative AI with AR will improve the development of digital worlds, create better storylines, and, especially, create more realistic characters.
At the same time, AI algorithms can also create personalized experiences. One of the most amazing advancements we will see in 2025 is the integration of chatbots through AR technology. We already know that companies use AI for their customer service operations. But with the rise of virtual product visualization tools, we can have access to chatbot characters that can assist us throughout our entire experience.
- Advanced Devices – Say Hello To Mixed Reality Headsets
2025 will bring a new change in the AR industry – headsets that can be both virtual and augmented reality experiences. This transition started in 2023 when Meta released Meta Quest 3 and introduced Apple’s Vision Pro. However, mixed reality headsets will really receive traction once Apple ships these devices, and other tech giants will follow suit as well. Yes, they might have set the bar high, but we can’t wait to see what Samsung or Oppo have in store!
But what’s amazing is that these mixed reality hardware devices might be exactly the missing piece that both the AR and VR markets need to grow.
- Multi-Sensory Technologies
Wait! There’s more to AR hardware. Headsets or AR glasses already do the magic, transporting us into a virtual world. Yet, with technological advancements, we can reach a new level of realism. For this reason, companies are now working to immerse us completely in the digital experience, where all our senses are engaged.
Nowadays, AR headsets lack one sense: smell. But as of 2025, more and more companies are changing this. While wearing these devices, the scent will be infused into the headset, allowing us to smell the surroundings.
Even more so, companies are also working to make more realistic haptic gloves. The goal is to give us the sensation of weight and pressure as we interact with virtual objects, mimicking real-life experiences.
- Spatial Computing
Up until now, spatial computing has mostly been focused on headsets. But as of 2025, there will be a shift towards the advancements of spatial computing displays that don’t rely on eyewear devices. Such augmented reality examples are interactive billboards, holographic displays of real-life people, and even in-vehicle heads-up systems.
With spatial computing displays, we will see how the transition from 2D to 3D is not limited to wearable technology. On the contrary! I can’t wait to see devices like Looking Glass Go that will integrate with AI and even telepresence systems like Google’s Project Starline.
- WebAR
One of the most impressive AR trends in 2025 will be the development of immersive web experiences. These advancements are primarily due to companies like Niantic’s 8th Wall. This is one of the best-augmented reality examples because now, AR experiences have become more engaging and easier to access on our smartphones and desktops.
This year we will continue to see further developments in WebAR – especially with a focus on geospatial systems and better spatial awareness. These improvements will make WebAR experiences feel more immersive and connected to our surroundings.
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