Future Directions for XR 2021‐2030: International Delphi Consensus Study

Summary

XR has been put forward as one of the “Essential Eight” key enabling technologies of the 21st century. Together, they are expected to drive the digital transformation that has started only recently in many areas of business, daily life, and leisure. Importantly, XR has the potential to play a major role in supporting the achievement of several if not all 17 Sustainable Development Goals set forth by the UN. The path towards realizing the full potential of XR technologies needs to be clarified in order to make informed decisions about research and development agendas, investment, funding, and regulations. In order to provide insights into the best approach to further develop XR towards its full potential, the EuroXR Association initiated a study using the well‐established Delphi consensus method, drawing on the expertise of independent senior XR experts to formulate future directions for XR R&D. The results are presented in terms of a roadmap for the future of XR, identifying the prerequisites to clear the path for this, and clarifying the roles and responsibilities for the XR research community, the XR business community, and the government and regulation bodies. The main findings of our XR roadmap are summarized into a number of specific areas for the stakeholders to act upon, in order to push the cutting edge of XR and be part of the early‐adopters who have this key enabling technology at their disposal throughout industry, education and society.