The benefits of MR technology in manufacturing
Mixed reality (MR) in manufacturing is helping businesses safely accelerate training, launch immersive reviews and deliver data-driven design that boosts the bottom line.
Thanks to simulated training in virtual reality (VR) and MR, everything from critical safety procedures to complex manufacturing processes are being practised – without the costs or the risks of doing it for real. The technology is also enabling manufacturers to create digital twins: replicating factories and their processes, and experimenting with new ways of working, risk-free.
Supercharging learning and development with MR technology in manufacturing
Immersive learning experiences – through advanced manufacturing technology such as MR, VR and augmented reality (AR) – are simulating high-risk scenarios in a low-risk environment, minimising impact on staff and factory lines. Advanced manufacturing examples include virtual walk-throughs, interactive campus tours, technical manuals for repair and AR maintenance.
VR training platforms, such as SkillsVR, ThingLink and Uptale, create rich, interactive learning experiences. Apps such as 3Spin Learning provide soft skills training. And software providers such as Siemens, Fracture Reality, LuminousXR and ForgeFX provide content tailored to the manufacturing industry.
As a result, manufacturers are able to quickly bring their employees up to speed in MR. Forrester Consulting research shows that 93% of industry leaders report that it takes less than an hour to orient employees to the technology. Crucially, learning in MR could reduce accidents – 75% agreed it helps train employees for dangerous situations in a low-risk environment.1
Manufacturing employees respond positively to VR/MR learning and development, too: 70% of leaders report that the technology helps employees engage with content, with 77% anticipating a positive impact on the employee experience. The benefits could be long lasting. Most organisations (75%) anticipate VR/MR training to boost productivity, with 74% believing the technology will help to grow employee retention.2
Using MR for advanced manufacturing technology through digital twins and data-driven design
Digital twins use live data feeds so that businesses can recreate manufacturing plants and A/B test ways of working. Using this technology in manufacturing enables them to save time and costs, through 3D modelling and VR walk-throughs. The following two examples of manufacturing technology demonstrate how digital twins are streamlining operations and reducing costs.
One such manufacturer is Mortenson. The construction firm had sometimes encountered software, safety and accessibility issues post-design, potentially leading to expensive change orders or added operational risk for clients. So it created a design twin, unlocking immersive reviews. Fifty reviewers spanning ten companies walked through 3D models, raising more than 600 issues – saving the company an estimated USD 26,500 in construction cost savings.
Snack food company Mondelēz, meanwhile, wanted to boost its research and development. It built a digital innovation centre, via virtual office app Arthur. Then, through the 3D design and collaboration tool Gravity Sketch, it launched a virtual studio. Designers could create, communicate and share ideas immersively – speeding up industrial design of new snacks. Thanks to VR/MR technology in manufacturing, Mondelēz's 3D concept design phase has been reduced from weeks to mere hours.
Immersive communications with MR technology in manufacturing
From sales pitches to interactive tours, immersive content is bringing manufacturing concepts to life and making the complex easy to understand.
For example, Lufthansa has recreated the in-flight experience in MR. The airline needed to showcase its new seating experience for long-haul flights. Traditionally, this would mean physically replicating the cabin at trade show exhibits and training staff on an actual aircraft – a costly and complex process. Instead, Lufthansa partnered with Meta and marketing firm MSM.digital to develop an MR application that was more easily scalable.
Today, when audiences put on their Meta Quest headsets, they're virtually transported to a business class seat. They can bring up the dining tray with the click of a button, or open and close their private cabin just like on an actual aeroplane. As a result, Lufthansa hasn't just slashed its exhibition costs (by 80% to physical exhibits), but boosted audience engagement by ten fold. The programme's success has prompted Lufthansa to expand its use of MR technology in manufacturing to train other parts of the business, such as critical engine maintenance, customer care and service.
With VR/MR, manufacturers and their customers no longer have to imagine how a design will come to life based on a technical drawing or 2D screen – they can experience it directly. Virtual replicas allow teams to feedback and develop iterations instantly and bring products to market quicker, while minimising the need for expensive prototypes.
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Keep reading about working in mixed reality (MR):
What is the best VR headset for work?
Using VR to train for the automotive mechanics trade
Six innovations shaping the future of work
Sources
1-2. A commissioned study conducted by Forrester Consulting on behalf of Meta, April 2025. Base: 108 decision-makers involved in learning and development technology decisions in manufacturing organisations in North America and Europe.
