Introduction to Extended Reality
The world of technology is continuously evolving, and some of the exciting developments in recent times is the expansion of prolonged reality (XR). This includes virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), and haptics. To explore the potential of those technologies, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras’s Experiential Technology Innovation Centre (XTIC) is organizing the first-ever International Extended Reality Symposium for the Global South.
The Symposium
The symposium, scheduled to happen on November 28, 2025, will bring together experts, innovators, researchers, and industry leaders from around the globe. The focus shall be on frugal technology innovations in XR, with a specific emphasis on developing regions in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The event is being organized jointly by Steven LaValle and Anna LaValle of Oculus, together with M Manivannan, the Principal Investigator of XTIC and a school member at IIT Madras.
Focus on Frugal Innovations
The symposium will explore the theme of ‘Frugal Tech Innovations Transforming Hardware and Software Solutions for XR within the Global South’. This is especially relevant for developing nations, where the necessity for reasonably priced and scalable XR solutions is growing rapidly. The event goals to democratize immersive technologies and reduce the fee barriers that always limit adoption in these regions.
The Importance of XTIC
XTIC is a research and product innovation centre dedicated to VR, AR, MR, and haptics. It provides support to academia, industry, and start-ups by offering expert guidance, workshops, prototyping support, and access to lab facilities. By facilitating collaborations between academics and industry professionals, XTIC is playing a vital role in promoting innovation and development in the sector of XR.
Impact on the Global South
The symposium is predicted to have a big impact on the Global South, where XR technologies have the potential to rework various sectors corresponding to education, healthcare, skilling, and public-service delivery. By spotlighting frugal innovation in hardware and software, the event goals to make XR solutions more accessible and reasonably priced for developing nations.
Conclusion
The International Extended Reality Symposium for the Global South is a groundbreaking event that guarantees to revolutionize the way in which we take into consideration XR technologies. By specializing in frugal innovations and democratizing access to immersive technologies, the symposium has the potential to make a big impact on the Global South. As the world becomes increasingly depending on technology, events like this symposium will play a vital role in shaping the long run of XR and its applications in developing regions.
