The Role of AR/VR in Mobile Apps: Industries Leading the Adoption

What do gaming, retail, real estate, and education have in common in 2025? They’re rapidly integrating AR/VR technology into their mobile apps—and reshaping user experiences in the process. From enhancing learning environments to helping customers try before they buy, AR/VR is no longer futuristic—it’s here, real, and profitable.

Let’s explore how top industries are using AR/VR mobile applications, the tools that drive this innovation, and what your business can gain by adopting these immersive technologies.

#1. Gaming: Setting the Standard for AR/VR App Development

Why businesses are investing in AR/VR app development for gaming

Gaming has always been the front-runner in adopting cutting-edge technologies. In 2025, AR/VR in gaming is delivering hyper-immersive experiences right on mobile devices.

Examples: Games like Pokémon Go paved the way, and today, apps like Wanderer AR and Eleven Table Tennis VR offer real-time physics and full-room VR play.

Benefits:

• Real-world interaction with game environments

• Greater user retention

• Monetization through immersive storytelling and in-app purchases

AR/VR App Development Companies are pushing boundaries to support 3D rendering, haptic feedback, and spatial audio in Android and iOS platforms.

#2. Retail: Try Before You Buy Goes Mobile

Best industries using AR and VR in mobile apps: Retail takes the lead

Retailers are using augmented reality mobile apps to close the gap between physical and digital shopping.

Examples: IKEA Place allows users to see furniture in their homes before purchasing. Sephora’s AR app helps customers try on makeup virtually.

Benefits:

• Reduced return rates

• Increased buyer confidence

• Higher conversion rates

This shift is encouraging both Android and iOS app development companies to integrate AR SDKs for product visualization, especially in eCommerce.

#3. Real Estate: Virtual Tours Are the New Norm

How AR and VR are transforming mobile applications in the real estate industry

Homebuyers and renters no longer have to physically visit properties. Virtual reality mobile apps provide 360-degree tours and augmented overlays of interiors and neighborhoods.

Examples: Zillow 3D Home and Realtor.com AR Home Tours.

Benefits:

• Saves time for agents and clients

• Remote property viewing boosts accessibility

• Enhances marketing capabilities for developers

AR VR app development services are now crucial for real estate agencies seeking to compete in a digital-first environment. 

4. Education: Immersive Learning Becomes the Standard

AR/VR in education: Creating interactive learning environments

2025’s classrooms extend beyond walls—thanks to AR/VR in education mobile apps. These apps make abstract concepts tangible and accessible to learners of all ages.

Examples: Mondly VR for language learning, and Merge EDU for hands-on science experiences.

Benefits:

• Enhanced engagement and comprehension

• Safe simulation of complex scenarios

• Personalized and accessible learning modules

Mobile app development companies are now combining AR/VR with AI to provide adaptive and interactive educational tools.

To integrate AR/VR into mobile apps, developers rely on powerful SDKs and platforms:

• ARKit (Apple) – For iOS AR apps

• ARCore (Google) – For Android AR development

• Unity and Unreal Engine – For cross-platform AR/VR games and environments

• Vuforia – Image recognition and object tracking

• 8thWall – Web-based AR integration

These tools support the rising demand for AR/VR app development across platforms and industries.

As 5G expands and devices become more powerful, AR/VR trends in 2025 show massive potential:

• Enterprise adoption: More businesses are using AR/VR for training, collaboration, and virtual meetings.

• WebAR and App-less AR: Experience AR through a browser without needing an app.

• Mixed Reality (MR): Combining the best of AR and VR into a seamless experience.

Industries that integrate these technologies early are already seeing improved customer satisfaction, increased sales, and a competitive edge.

AR/VR technology is no longer an optional feature—it’s a strategic advantage. From helping users visualize products in their home to transporting students to historical battlefields, AR/VR in mobile apps is revolutionizing experiences.

If you're considering building immersive solutions, partner with a trusted AR/VR app development company that understands your industry’s needs and knows how to implement next-gen tech effectively.

Looking to stay ahead in 2025? Start planning your mobile app development project today—with AR and VR at its core.