Global Scans · Virtual Reality · Weekly Summary

• [New] As of 2026, VR tours are quickly becoming a staple for travelers looking to plan their next adventure from the comfort of their own homes. FlyGazine
• [New] More than two-thirds of US residents expect AR to become part of daily life, and 82% plan to use AR and VR more often in the future. Bayelsa Watch
• [New] Research projects that by 2026, 30% of enterprises will implement VR platforms for virtual meetings and immersive training experiences. Speakwise
• [New] The VR + DT group showed greater enhancements in static balance and DT gait compared to the conventional OTAGO group, suggesting that immersive VR combined with cognitive challenges might produce better balance results. LWW
• [New] Educational institutions worldwide will adopt virtual laboratories because VR hardware is becoming more affordable and accessible to educational systems. Fusion VR Blog
• [New] Within the broader trend, we see strong buyer demand for solutions that enable higher quality worker training, such as the AR/VR solutions for the US military created by Corum client Envision Innovative Solutions, acquired by PD Systems. Corum Group
• In the next few years, many schools across India and around the world will implement VR learning technologies. Techradiance
• Over 171 million people use VR globally, with the user base projected to reach 216 million by the end of 2026. SQ Magazine
• MR / VR headsets are projected to rebound in 2026 with the launch of new devices, though their appeal will remain largely limited to gamers and businesses focused on design, training, and collaboration. IDC: The premier global market intelligence company
• PwC projects VR and AR technologies will deliver a $1.5 trillion boost to global GDP by 2030. SQ Magazine
• By 2027, VR is expected to enhance connectivity and accessibility significantly. Starter
• Looking to 2026, IDC anticipates a major rebound in VR and MR headset shipments, projecting approximately 87% year-over-year growth. Bayelsa Watch
• The use of AR/VR activities in healthcare, specifically in the treatment of anxiety and phobias, demonstrates notable benefits for users including helping to reduce fears, stress, and feelings of anxiety (TWS; Marks 2026). Euclid Observer
• Virtual reality users are expected to reach about 171 million globally. Bayelsa Watch
• In the United States, around 77 million people are projected to use VR devices in 2026. Bayelsa Watch
• In manufacturing and automotive, Capgemini's research (based on 700+ executives) shows 46% expect AR/VR to become mainstream in their organization within 3 years, while 38% think it will take 3-5 years. Bayelsa Watch
• XR (VR + AR) supports about 80,000 jobs today, and estimates suggest it could reach 2.3 million roles by 2030. / USA Bayelsa Watch
• The AR/VR retail segment is expected to grow at 28-32% CAGR through 2033, supported by improving hardware capabilities, declining hardware costs, and expanding consumer familiarity with immersive technologies. Persistence Market Research
• Newer, better hardware Xreal's Project Aura (a collaboration between Google and Xreal) is expected to launch smart glasses that bridge the gap between bulky VR headsets and lightweight, but limited, smart glasses. LinkedIn

Last updated: 01 June 2026