Spatial computing is poised to revolutionize not only technological innovation but also the ways people work and live. And enterprises looking to capitalize on this new medium must identify its killer applications. Applications built for this medium enable users to immerse themselves in digital worlds with a physical sense of space or layer digital content over their physical surroundings.
Transformative Potential of Spatial Computing
Spatial computing is not merely an extension of current technologies but a revolutionary change that creates new business models and opportunities. It centers around human interaction with machines that reference real objects and spaces, enabling augmented, mixed, and virtual realities that interact with the real world. Intersecting with technologies like AI, digital twins, IoT, and physical controls, spatial computing enhances enterprise processes by aligning computer programming with human perceptions, enabling new workflows and automating digital twin creation.
Practical Applications of Spatial Computing
Real-world applications of spatial computing are already making significant impacts across various industries.
1. Augmented Reality (AR)
Overlays digital content onto the physical world and is useful in navigation, maintenance, and gaming. For example, AR can help technicians visualize complex repair instructions directly on equipment, improving efficiency and accuracy.
2. Virtual Reality (VR)
Provides immersive environments for training, therapy, and entertainment. VR simulations, like flight simulators or medical training scenarios, offer realistic training experiences.
3. Mixed Reality (MR)
Combines AR and VR elements for interactive real-world and digital integration. Architects can use MR to preview and refine structural designs before construction, reducing mistakes and streamlining processes.
4. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Analyzes and processes information in spatial computing systems. AI, combined with 3D data, enhances real-world situation analysis, improving decision-making and predictions.
5. Digital Twins
Digital replicas of real-world systems or environments used for monitoring, analysis, and optimization. In spatial computing, digital twins can create virtual replicas of factories or urban areas for planning, analysis, and testing purposes.
Implementing Spatial Computing
To effectively integrate spatial computing into their operations, enterprises must adopt forward-thinking strategies. This involves leveraging the intersection of spatial computing with AI, IoT, and digital twins to enhance processes and workflows. Understanding the unique advantages of spatial computing can help shape and guide enterprise strategy, moving beyond standalone pilots to comprehensive integration.
Overcoming Challenges of Spatial Computing
Despite its transformative potential, spatial computing faces hurdles. The metaverse, one of the most well-known applications, experienced a significant decline in digital real estate values after booming in 2021 and 2022. Some enterprises remain hesitant, believing the hype surrounding spatial computing has outpaced technology maturity. However, companies like Meta and Epic are rapidly advancing VR and AR products, demonstrating the practical value of these technologies in industrial applications.
New standards, tools, and technologies are making it easier and more affordable to build spatial apps and experiences. Universal Scene Description (USD), a framework developed by Pixar, allows creators to map out scenes, including assets, backgrounds, lighting, and characters. This enables collaborative content creation and non-destructive editing, making USD central to impactful spatial applications.
The future business landscape shaped by spatial computing promises to integrate these experiences even more closely. Spatial computing excels in three areas: Conveying large volumes of complex information, giving users agency over their experiences, and augmenting physical spaces. Imagine future offices where physical monitors, projectors, and displays are replaced by spatial computers and apps, allowing for simpler, cost-effective, and adaptable spaces.
However, with the integration of spatial computing comes increased security considerations. Businesses must adopt zero-trust principles and Defense in Depth strategies to secure these environments, recognizing the potential blind spots in this uncharted territory.
Recognizing the Power of Spatial Computing
Spatial computing is poised to make a significant impact, and the race is on for enterprises to stay ahead. To lead in this new era of technological innovation, enterprise leaders must reconsider their stance on spatial computing and recognize the profound effects of recent technological advances. By understanding and leveraging the transformative potential of spatial computing, businesses can unlock new opportunities and drive future success.