Immersive technology is no longer futuristic. It’s here, evolving rapidly, and transforming how businesses train staff, engage customers, and tell stories. From tourism and retail to education and healthcare, the question is no longer if your business will use immersive technology, but when. The organisations that start exploring it now will be the ones leading their industries by 2026.
Immersive technology is becoming essential
Over the last few years, virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality have moved from niche entertainment tools to powerful business assets. Global investment in immersive experiences is growing fast, with brands using them to enhance customer experience, boost retention, and streamline operations.
Retailers like IKEA and John Lewis already use AR to help customers visualise furniture in their homes. Museums and heritage sites are bringing history to life through VR experiences, while training providers are creating realistic simulations to reduce risk and improve learning outcomes. These examples show just how widely immersive technology is being embraced and why every sector needs to start paying attention. The global immersive technology market size was estimated at $40.88 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $169.88 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 27.9% from 2025 to 2030, according to Grand View Research.
Why businesses are investing now
For many organisations, immersive technology is no longer experimental, it’s strategic. And it’s paying off. Studies show immersive training improves knowledge retention by up to 75% compared with traditional methods. Retailers report higher conversion rates when customers interact with immersive content. Even internal collaboration is being transformed through virtual workspaces and digital twins.
Smart glasses and the next evolution of immersive
We are also seeing smart glasses emerge as one of the most exciting developments in immersive technology. They bridge the gap between digital and physical worlds, creating seamless new ways for brands to reach customers and for teams to work together. Adoption will depend on usability and social acceptance, something my colleague Taylor explored in If my gadget-loving dad is not sold on smart glasses, what will it take to win people over.
As this technology becomes lighter, faster and more connected, the opportunities for business use will grow dramatically. Those who start exploring now will be ready when smart glasses and mixed reality wearables become mainstream tools for everyday work and communication.
Sustainability and efficiency benefits
Immersive technology also supports sustainability, a growing business priority. Virtual experiences can drastically reduce travel, material use, and waste. A virtual property viewing, for example, saves multiple physical site visits. Virtual product launches can reach global audiences without the environmental cost of travel or printed collateral.
By embracing immersive alternatives, organisations can cut emissions while increasing accessibility, reach, and impact, turning innovation into a practical sustainability strategy.
Future proofing for 2026 and beyond
By 2026, immersive technology will be woven into daily life. Devices are becoming more lightweight and affordable, while streaming and connectivity advances mean high-quality visuals can be delivered anywhere without cables or bulky hardware.
Waiting until immersive technology is mainstream means missing out on the opportunity to shape its use within your sector. Early adopters are already building experience and audience trust that latecomers will struggle to match. Investing now ensures your business is ready to lead the change rather than react to it.
Not sure where to start? I can help
If you’re unsure how immersive technology could work in your business or you have no idea where to start, that’s exactly what I’m here for. As Infinite Form’s Knowledge, Education and Outreach Lead, I run immersive discovery sessions for agencies and organisations that want to understand what’s possible.
I can come to you or you can come to us, if you fancy a day out to Norwich!) to demonstrate the technology, show how other businesses are using it, and explore where it could and could not be applied in your world. Think of us as your immersive technology sherpas, here to guide you through the landscape without any jargon or sales pressure.
If that sounds useful, drop us a no obligation email and we can sort something out.
The time to act is now
Immersive technology is isn’t just an innovation trend, it’s the next evolution of digital engagement. Whether your business focuses on retail, training, heritage, tourism or brand experience, the sooner you start experimenting, the more prepared you will be for the opportunities ahead.
At Infinite Form, we make immersive experiences that feel effortless, combining creativity and technical excellence to connect people through unforgettable digital worlds. The technology is ready, it’s time to see where it can take you.
Niky Ellison
After moving from town to town in the south of England, Niky found his way to Norwich and then to Infinite Form. Alongside studying Brand Communication at UCA he has busied himself with everything from consulting for non-profits to being a children's entertainer. Niky spends most of his spare time playing & creating tabletop games, and is a big supporter of mental health.
Related posts
