AUGMENTED WORLD EXPO REVEALS 2025 AUGGIE AWARD WINNERS, BEST IN SHOW AND XR LEGENDS

Key Takeaways:

• AWE USA 2025 concluded with major awards celebrating XR innovation.
• Snap Inc. won Best in Show, highlighting its impact in XR.
• The Auggie Awards, in their 16th year, honored 20 innovators.
• XR pioneers were inducted into the 2025 XR Hall of Fame.
• Innovative projects like the first live VR musical were celebrated.

AWE USA 2025: A Celebration of XR’s Best and Brightest

The world’s largest event for XR and spatial computing, Augmented World Expo (AWE) USA 2025, wrapped up with a flourish, marking a significant milestone in the industry’s evolution. The event culminated in the announcement of the Best in Show winners, the prestigious Auggie Awards recipients, and the induction of esteemed pioneers into the XR Hall of Fame.

Best in Show Winners Highlight Innovation

Leading the accolades, Snap Inc. secured the coveted Best in Show award, reaffirming its influential role in advancing XR technology. The Best in Show Playground award went to Anywhere Bungee VR, recognized for its innovative approach to immersive experiences. TRIP THE LIGHT by Dark Arts Software earned the Best in Show Gaming Hub, showcasing excellence in XR gaming.

Honoring Rising Stars and Legends

The Virtual World Society Nextant Prizes shone a spotlight on individuals making significant impacts in the XR field. Danny Pimentel received the Rising Star Prize, acknowledging his emerging contributions to the industry. Jaron Lanier, a figure synonymous with virtual reality’s inception, was honored with the Legacy Prize for his enduring influence and foundational work.

Auggie Awards Showcase Pioneering Projects

Now in their 16th year, the Auggie Awards are the most recognized accolades in XR and spatial computing. This year, 20 of the world’s most innovative developers, brands, and creators were celebrated for their groundbreaking work.

Brendan Bradley’s “Non-Player Character Musical” won Best Art or Film. As the first live, interactive VR musical, it debuted with 24 shows at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, pushing the boundaries of immersive storytelling.

The Best Campaign award was claimed by the OREO X PAC-MAN SUPERMARCADE, a collaboration between ARKx, Form & Fun, and Saatchi & Saatchi Germany. This inventive AR shopping experience transformed supermarket aisles into a Pac-Man maze, seamlessly blending digital fun with physical retail via WebAR technology.

XR Hall of Fame Inducts Industry Pioneers

Recognizing the foundational figures who have propelled the XR industry forward, AWE 2025 inducted ten pioneers into the XR Hall of Fame. While their names were not detailed in the announcement, their lasting contributions continue to influence the trajectory of spatial computing and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Exhibitors Reveal Future of XR

The expo was also a stage for major exhibitors like Snap, Qualcomm, Niantic Spatial, XREAL, and Lenovo to announce exciting developments. These industry leaders showcased advancements that promise to shape the future of XR, highlighting the rapid growth and dynamic nature of the field.

Reflecting on AWE 2025’s Impact

As AWE USA 2025 closes, the event stands as a testament to both the innovative spirit and the collaborative efforts driving the XR industry. The convergence of cutting-edge projects and the honoring of legendary figures underscores a community that values both its roots and its forward momentum. With such milestones, the future of XR and spatial computing looks brighter than ever.