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Extended or Mixed Reality (AR + VR): Technology and Applications...
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Extended or Mixed Reality (AR + VR): Technology and Applications (2nd Edition)

A special issue of Computers (ISSN 2073-431X). This special issue belongs to the section "Human–Computer Interactions".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 1565

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Miguel Correia Melo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Engineering Department, School of Science and Technology, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
2. Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science (INESC TEC), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
Interests: computer graphics; HDR; virtual reality
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Guilherme Gonçalves

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science (INESC TEC), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
Interests: 3D computer graphics; 3D modeling; virtual reality; visualization; computer games; game development; 3D reconstruction; photography; video editing; photogrammetry

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies have been evolving at a fast pace, to the point where it is possible to create solutions that can be integrated seamlessly into real use cases. These solutions can be leveraged in a range of application areas, such as entertainment, education, medicine, and tourism. This Special Issue aims to explore the multifaceted dimensions of XR, MR, and VR to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest developments, challenges, and research directions in the field. Novel research articles, comprehensive reviews, and survey articles are all welcome.

The key topics covered include the following:

  • Advances in XR, MR, AR, and VR hardware and software technologies;
  • User experience, perception, and the cognitive aspects of XR, MR, AR, and VR, including multisensory stimulation;
  • Collaborative and social XR, MR, AR, and VR environments;
  • Interaction techniques in immersive experiences;
  • The industrial applications of XR, MR, AR, and VR.

Dr. Miguel Correia Melo
Dr. Guilherme Gonçalves
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Computers is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • virtual reality
  • mixed reality
  • augmented reality
  • serious games
  • multisensory immersive experiences

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (3 papers)

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Research

23 pages, 17084 KiB  
Article
Training First Responders Through VR-Based Situated Digital Twins
by Nikolaos Partarakis, Theodoros Evdaimon, Menelaos Katsantonis and Xenophon Zabulis
Computers 2025, 14(7), 274; https://doi.org/10.3390/computers14070274 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 299
Abstract
This study examines first responder training to deliver realistic, adaptable, and scalable solutions aimed at equipping personnel to handle high-risk, rapidly developing scenarios. The proposed method leverages Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and digital twins to enable immersive and situationally relevant training for security-critical [...] Read more.
This study examines first responder training to deliver realistic, adaptable, and scalable solutions aimed at equipping personnel to handle high-risk, rapidly developing scenarios. The proposed method leverages Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and digital twins to enable immersive and situationally relevant training for security-critical incidents. The method is structured into three distinct phases: definition, digitization, and implementation. The outcome of this approach is the creation of virtual training scenarios that simulate real situations and incident dynamics. The methodology employs photogrammetric reconstruction, simulation of human behavior through locomotion, and virtual security systems, such as surveillance and drone technology. Alongside the methodology, a case study of a large public event is presented to illustrate its feasibility in real-world applications. This study offers a comprehensive and adaptive structure for the design and deployment of digitally augmented training systems. This provides a practical basis for enhancing readiness in a range of operational domains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extended or Mixed Reality (AR + VR): Technology and Applications (2nd Edition))
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25 pages, 9056 KiB  
Article
Creating Digital Twins to Celebrate Commemorative Events in the Metaverse
by Vicente Jover and Silvia Sempere
Computers 2025, 14(7), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/computers14070273 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 364
Abstract
This paper explores the potential and implications arising from the convergence of virtual reality, the metaverse, and digital twins in translating a real-world commemorative event into a virtual environment. It emphasizes how such integration influences digital transformation processes, particularly in reshaping models of [...] Read more.
This paper explores the potential and implications arising from the convergence of virtual reality, the metaverse, and digital twins in translating a real-world commemorative event into a virtual environment. It emphasizes how such integration influences digital transformation processes, particularly in reshaping models of social interaction. Virtual reality is conceptualized as an immersive technology, enabling advanced multisensory experiences within persistent virtual spaces, such as the metaverse. Furthermore, this study delves into the concept of digital twins—high-fidelity virtual representations of physical systems, processes, and objects—highlighting their application in simulation, analysis, forecasting, prevention, and operational enhancement. In the context of virtual events, the convergence of these technologies is examined as a means to create interactive, adaptable, and scalable environments capable of accommodating diverse social groups and facilitating global accessibility. As a practical application, a digital twin of the Ferrándiz and Carbonell buildings—the most iconic architectural ensemble on the Alcoi campus—was developed to host a virtual event commemorating the 50th anniversary of the integration of the Alcoi School of Industrial Technical Engineering into the Universitat Politècnica de València in 1972. The virtual environment was subsequently evaluated by a sample of users, including students and faculty, to assess usability and functionality, and to identify areas for improvement. The digital twin achieved a score of 88.39 out of 100 on the System Usability Scale (SUS). The findings underscore the key opportunities and challenges associated with the adoption of these emerging technologies, particularly regarding their adaptability in reconfiguring digital environments for work, social interaction, and education. Using this case study as a foundation, this paper offers insights into the strategic role of the metaverse in extending environmental perception and its transformative potential for the future digital ecosystem through the implementation of digital twins. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extended or Mixed Reality (AR + VR): Technology and Applications (2nd Edition))
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25 pages, 3154 KiB  
Article
Utilizing Virtual Worlds for Training Professionals: The Case of Soft Skills Training of Smart City Engineers and Technicians
by Maria Rigou, Vasileios Gkamas, Isidoros Perikos, Konstantinos Kovas and Polyxeni Kontodiakou
Computers 2025, 14(6), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/computers14060206 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 499
Abstract
The paper explores virtual worlds as an innovative training platform for upskilling and reskilling smart city professionals, comprising technicians and engineers. Focusing on developing soft skills, the study presents findings from the pilot of a virtual training which was part of a comprehensive [...] Read more.
The paper explores virtual worlds as an innovative training platform for upskilling and reskilling smart city professionals, comprising technicians and engineers. Focusing on developing soft skills, the study presents findings from the pilot of a virtual training which was part of a comprehensive tech skills program that also included transversal skills, namely soft, entrepreneurial and green skills. Moreover, the paper describes the methodological approach adapted for the design and the use of the soft skills’ virtual world during the online multi-user sessions, and depicts the technical infrastructure used for its implementation. The virtual world was assessed with a mixed-methods approach, combining a specially designed evaluation questionnaire completed by 27 trainees with semi-structured interviews conducted with instructors. Quantitative data were analyzed to assess satisfaction, perceived effectiveness, and the relationship between curriculum design, support, and instructional quality. Qualitative feedback provided complementary insights into learner experiences and implementation challenges. Findings indicate high levels of learner satisfaction, particularly regarding instructor expertise, curriculum organization, and overall engagement. Statistical analysis revealed strong correlations between course structure and perceived training quality, while prior familiarity with virtual environments showed no significant impact on outcomes. Participants appreciated the flexibility, interactivity, and team-based nature of the training, despite minor technical issues. This research demonstrates the viability of VWs for soft skills development in technical professions, highlighting their value as an inclusive, scalable, and experiential training solution. Its novelty lies in applying immersive technology specifically to smart city training, a field where such applications remain underexplored. The findings support the integration of virtual environments into professional development strategies and inform best practices for future implementations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Extended or Mixed Reality (AR + VR): Technology and Applications (2nd Edition))
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