What we can say for certain is that both virtual reality and augmented reality have been dominating topics of interest in aviation for years, and regardless of whether 2020 will be the year that fiction becomes fact, it cannot be ignored that the VR/AR industry, in general, is poised to eclipse 160 billion U.S. dollars by 2023.

Tech as function, not fashion

Arguably, one of the reasons that many wearable devices fail, is that they are marketed to the consumer demographic as lifestyle devices–where they should be seen as professional tools to enhance operations. In an article in 2015, Forbes looked into where Google Glass fell short, and it came down to failing to help consumers understand why they needed such a device.

Interestingly, in the years since Google Glass’s failure to appeal to consumers, it has begun making a comeback as a tool marketed to hands-on workers and business professionals. Arguably, something that should have happened in the first place. In the aviation industry, both GE and Boeing have begun adopting Google Glass in their production.

When augmented reality or virtual reality tech is used as a tool, such as in product development or MRO, the benefits of these technologies truly shine. The “functionality” of the technology is allowed to showcase how it can enhance operations, and the “lifestyle” aspect becomes irrelevant.

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Augmented Reality in MRO: Is it bleeding edge or leading edge?