WASHINGTON—Manufacturers in a variety of industries are using extended reality technology for applications ranging from quality assurance to workforce development. Extended reality (XR) is an umbrella term that refers to augmented reality, virtual reality and mixed reality. With the aid of wearable devices, XR combines the physical world with the digital world, giving users an immersive experience.

According to a recent study conducted by the XR Association, 81 percent of manufacturers believe that immersive technology is important. In addition, more than one-third of respondents claim that XR technology can help address workforce skill gaps by significantly reducing barriers to skill acquisition, improving new hire training and helping with employee recruitment.