Emerging technologies are reshaping the present and future of industry
In an era defined by advanced automation, artificial intelligence, collaborative robotics, and data analytics, the concept of the factory of the future is no longer just an idea—it’s a reality in motion. XR technologies are increasingly recognized as one of the essential pillars of this industrial transformation.
This was the central theme of Alberto Manzano’s participation at the UNIR Forum “The Industry of the Future”, a key event within the Spanish academic landscape that brings together experts from both academia and business to analyze the challenges and opportunities of Industry 4.0.
XR technologies in industry: maintenance, guidance, and smart monitoring
During his intervention, Manzano discussed the growing adoption of XR technologies—Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR)—across industrial environments. Among the most relevant use cases he highlighted were:
- Maintenance and repair tasks: Augmented Reality allows overlaying instructions or diagrams onto physical equipment, streamlining procedures and reducing downtime.
- Indoor guidance and technical training: Virtual Reality simulators recreate real industrial environments to train workers in a safe and effective way.
- Remote monitoring: Mixed Reality enables real-time access to operational data from any location, improving decision-making and process control.
These XR-based solutions not only enhance efficiency and safety but also provide a strong competitive edge for the companies that implement them.
New job opportunities: the rise of the XR specialist
Manzano also emphasized how this digital transformation is reshaping the labor market. XR technologies in industry are giving rise to new professional roles that didn’t exist a few years ago. In addition to the well-established roles of software and video game developers, we now see growing demand for XR specialists—professionals skilled in programming, 3D design, user experience, and immersive technologies.
He also underlined the increasing importance of technical documentation personnel in industrial organizations. These professionals are essential for structuring and organizing the information that can later be converted into interactive content using XR tools—such as AR-based technical manuals or VR simulations of industrial processes.
Extended Reality as a competitive advantage for industrial SMEs
Far from being a privilege exclusive to large corporations, XR is proving to be a powerful enabler of industrial innovation for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). As Manzano stated, “Many small companies are managing to stand out from the competition by implementing XR technologies.”
These SMEs are using platforms like EyeFlow, developed by ARSOFT, to digitize paper-based documentation, reduce costs, and provide more effective training to their teams. The ease of deployment and the ability to create content without programming knowledge are key advantages, enabling these companies to accelerate their digitalization process without large upfront investments.
ARSOFT: a leader in XR technologies for industry
Alberto Manzano’s participation in the UNIR Forum highlights ARSOFT’s role as a leading developer of XR solutions for industrial applications. With over 500 projects completed and more than 20 national and international awards, ARSOFT continues to promote knowledge transfer between the academic and industrial worlds.
Events like the UNIR Forum offer a unique opportunity to share experiences, anticipate future trends, and foster dialogue among professionals who are shaping the industry of tomorrow.
Watch the full session here:
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