Apple, Qualcomm, and SEAT Recognized as global innovators in design and manufacturing for VR/AR & AI technologies
Rare joint appearance highlights advancements in hardware and manufacturing by global tech and automotive leaders in VR/AR and AI at the AIXR XR Awards.
In a rare moment for the manufacturing world, Apple, Qualcomm Technologies, and SEAT S.A. took to the stage together at an international awards event recognizing innovation in virtual and augmented reality technology (AIXR XR Awards), marking a pivotal moment for industrial and hardware advancements. Representatives from all three companies took the stage to be recognised for their transformative contributions to technology and manufacturing.
Breaking Barriers for Real-World Industries
For years, extended reality (XR)—a blend of virtual and augmented reality—has faced significant hurdles in breaking into mainstream industries. That’s changing fast. Devices like Apple’s Vision Pro, Qualcomm-powered VR/AR hardware, and SEAT’s groundbreaking mixed reality innovations are now revolutionizing manufacturing, design, and engineering, transforming how industries prototype, train, and collaborate.
Apple: Revolutionizing Industrial Design
Apple was recognized for its Apple Vision Pro, a groundbreaking device introduced in June 2024 that merges digital and physical environments through advanced spatial computing. The Vision Pro allows users to overlay 3D models onto physical spaces, enabling precision-driven applications such as product prototyping, machinery training, and remote collaboration.
James Cooper, Creative Director for Apple’s Vision Products Group, praised the team’s efforts:
“This achievement is a testament to the creativity and resilience of the Vision Products Group, led by Mike Rockwell. Together, we’ve pushed the boundaries of what’s possible with spatial computing to deliver tools that empower innovation across industries.”
Despite challenges like paused production lines, the Vision Pro has set a new benchmark for how hardware can enhance productivity and collaboration in industrial contexts, and broke industrial design records.
Qualcomm: Powering the World’s Portable Hardware
As a key player in semiconductor manufacturing, Qualcomm was honored for its Snapdragon XR processors, which power many of the world’s leading immersive devices. Known for enabling high-performance features like AI-driven efficiency and real-time motion tracking, Qualcomm’s technology is helping industries scale immersive applications such as automation, training simulations, and digital twins.
“Qualcomm’s contributions to immersive hardware have made it possible for XR devices to move beyond niche markets, the immense power they have been able to fit into these portable devices is incredible” said Daniel Colaianni, CEO of AIXR. “Their work is laying the foundation for global manufacturing industries.”
SEAT: Reinventing Automotive Manufacturing
Spanish car manufacturer SEAT S.A. was recognized for their innovative use of mixed reality to reimagine car design and production. By creating virtual environments for engineers to refine vehicle designs and streamline manufacturing processes with a full motion rig setup, SEAT has reduced development time, minimized waste, and enhanced precision—all while prioritizing sustainability.
SEAT’s project demonstrates how immersive technology can solve real-world challenges in traditional industries, setting a new standard for the automotive sector.
Why It Matters for Manufacturing
XR hardware and applications are reshaping workflows for manufacturers, offering tools to visualize designs, reduce errors, and speed up production cycles. Apple’s Vision Pro, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors, and SEAT’s mixed reality project are paving the way for an industrial revolution, making this year’s XR Awards a pivotal moment for tech and manufacturing.
“Apple, Qualcomm, and SEAT stepping onto the same stage shows just how transformative XR hardware has become,” said Daniel Colaianni, CEO of AIXR. “This isn’t just about tech—it’s about industries finding new ways to innovate, solve problems, and build the future.”
For the full list of winners and finalists, visit: XR Awards Winners and Finalists.
About AIXR
AIXR is the world’s leading community-focused networking platform for technology professionals. It builds a global community of innovators, simplifying impactful connections in the tech industry and enabling professionals to focus on innovation, growth, and impact.
About XR Awards (Formerly VR Awards)
The International XR Awards, presented by AIXR, celebrate the remarkable achievements and advancements in the world of extended reality (XR). Since their inception in 2017, the XR Awards have recognized innovation and creativity across various sectors, highlighting the boundless potential of XR technologies.
