BREAKING: AWE Asia 2026 has just concluded, marking a pivotal moment for the global extended reality (XR) and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors. This three-day event at the Singapore Expo highlighted a crucial shift as XR is increasingly recognized as essential infrastructure for next-generation AI systems.
During the conference, Ori Inbar, co-founder of AWE, emphasized the interconnectedness of AI and XR, stating, “there is no AI without XR.” This urgent message resonated throughout the event, illustrating how spatial computing is transforming how intelligent systems engage with the world around them.
Keynotes from industry leaders set the tone for practical, human-centered futures. Atley Loughridge, Design Engineer at Snap Inc., revealed that the company’s augmented reality (AR) tools are moving from experimental phases to widespread production, showcasing significant advancements in developer tools and cross-platform deployment.
In a compelling discussion, Alvin W. Graylin examined programmable reality through a human-centric lens, stressing the importance of trust and responsibility as AI and XR systems begin to shape human perception and decision-making. Mark Billinghurst introduced the concept of “Empathic XR,” focusing on immersive systems that can sense human emotions and intent, with potential applications in healthcare and training.
The conference also featured a developer panel led by Steven Xu from Snap, showcasing teams creating spatial experiences using Lens Studio across various platforms. The emphasis on production-ready workflows underscores the urgent need for scalable solutions in XR.
As AWE Asia 2026 wrapped up, the expo floor buzzed with live demonstrations of groundbreaking technologies, including wearable AR and spatial analytics. Snap’s prominent presence allowed attendees to engage hands-on with their Spectacles, illustrating computing’s future beyond traditional screens.
The event culminated in the inaugural AWE Asia Startup Pitch and the prestigious Auggie Awards, celebrating innovation within the XR ecosystem. Noteworthy winners included Braillic as Startup to Watch, Refract for Best in Show Experience, and Snap for Best in Show.
This year’s AWE Asia not only showcased cutting-edge technologies but also ignited critical conversations about the future role of AI in society. As the conference concludes, experts are calling for stronger governance to ensure AI developments are aligned with human values.
With discussions continuing beyond the event, attendees and industry stakeholders are now focused on the next steps to integrate XR and AI in ways that enhance human experience and well-being. As the landscape evolves, the implications for industries and daily life are profound, marking a moment of transformation that is just beginning to unfold.
Stay tuned for further updates as this dynamic field continues to develop.
