Top 5 Predictions for the Worldwide AR/VR Market in 2026

This IDC Market Perspective provides a discussion on some of the trends that will shape the worldwide AR/VR market in 2026. The worldwide AR/VR market in 2026 will see gradual but meaningful progress, driven by the convergence of AI, XR, and digital twins; the expansion of AR/VR applications; and the emergence of Android XR glasses. While adoption remains measured due to practical and economic constraints, advances in hardware, software, and content creation tools - alongside strategic mergers and acquisitions - will foster ecosystem growth, especially in high-impact enterprise and training scenarios."The past several years have shown multiple companies laying down the foundation of the AR/VR market. 2026 represents another year of progress, with multiple opportunities for companies to grow and gain," said Ramon T. Llamas, research director with IDC's XD and Interactive Software team. "Convergence of emerging technologies, emergence of new platforms and partners, and new and improving use cases are expected to take center stage this year and will make innovations launched just a few years ago look quaint. Companies with an eye to constant development of the AR/VR experience will be rewarded with end-user interest and ultimately, adoption."