In the technology industry, innovation often happens when great minds come together. People collaborating from different walks of life can discover new ideas, unlock new potential, and find solutions to problems at a much faster rate.
XR associations, (Extended Reality associations), are groups of people around the world who come together to foster growth in virtual, augmented, and mixed reality. These groups are designed to inspire, empower, and motivate the forward-thinkers in the XR environment, fostering a new generation of research, education, and industry development.
Here are just some of the top XR associations you should know about.
1. The VR/ARA
Referred to as either the “VRARA”, or the “VR/AR Association”, this unique community is an international body of developers, brands, and individuals working together to accelerate the future of Augmented and Virtual reality. The mission of the VRARA is to improve collaboration between the teams responsible for developing industry standards in AR and VR.
With countless members and sponsors including Google, Microsoft, Lenovo, Amazon, and many others, the VR and AR association is one of the biggest environments around for those interested in XR. It’s also the home to various great resources, including publications, podcasts, chapter and partner events, and online Summits.
2. IVRPA
The International Virtual Reality Professionals Association is another international group of XR enthusiasts and professionals. The IVRPA is made up of photographers who create and produce incredible 360-degree Panoramas, and other virtual reality resources, like 360-degree tours and 3D experiences.
The website for the IVRPA showcases some of the members of the community, as well as offering a central place where people can communicate, and access news about the latest developments in virtual and augmented reality. The IVRPA website is a melting pot of ideas and networking opportunities for the innovators of the future.
3. XRA
XRA, or the Extended Reality Association, is a group committed to supporting the responsible development and creation of virtual, mixed, and augmented reality experiences. The innovators behind XRA are leading the way to new levels of growth in immersive technology, advocating on behalf of their members and the wider industry.
Members of XRA range all the way from Google to Facebook and Oculus, Sony Interactive Entertainment, Microsoft, and HTC Vive. On the XRA website, you can track down the latest research and best-practice information from market leaders, as well as news from the XR industry.
4. EuroXR Association
The EuroXR Association is the Association for extended reality experiences and innovations in Europe. The group is committed to creating a high-quality network environment where people can come together to discuss and collaborate on the future of Extended Reality opportunities.
Within the EuroXR association website, you can find plenty of information about upcoming events, where you can learn more about VR, AR, and Mixed Reality. There’s also plenty of news updates and articles to read about the XR landscape. You can even check out some of the existing members on the EuroXR members’ page.