Virtual reality is changing how the world works. Previously, you would need to put yourself in physical jeopardy if you wanted to skydive, play tennis or break dance. Now, you can do all of it with a headset in your home. The concept is not just attractive to laymen but also to policemen, especially those on the frontline putting their life on the line every day.

Imagine if they could use their weapons to boost accuracy and safety but in a controlled and virtual environment, i.e. with them not physically harming anyone. Interesting, isn’t it?

That’s what military and police virtual reality systems company xReality Group (ASX: XRG) is attempting to promote. 

And thankfully, it has somewhat succeeded. The Company has been selected as a technology and expertise supplier for a funded national trial of its law enforcement system. The trial aims to assess and capture the effectiveness of its Virtual Reality Simulation-Based Training (VRSBT) as an enhancement program to help boost frontline safety for police. 

The trial is a test run to see if the Company could start long-term multi-year programs to make police safer. The Operator’s Virtual Reality System for Law Enforcement is a tool that helps police train by using realistic video game-esque technology that is portable, easy to use and doesn’t need the internet. It’s also super secure and easy to configure.

CEO of XRG, Wayne Jones, said, “The decision to award this National trial to XRG further confirms the quality and effectiveness of the technology. We are currently experiencing a high level of demand from around the world from both military and law enforcement agencies. We look forward to seeing the positive impact our technology can make on improving the safety and preparedness of those men and women on the frontline”.

In H1 FY23, the Company’s revenue shot up by 90% on H1 FY22, rising from $2.9 million to $5.6 million. Through its entertainment and law enforcement ventures, XRG is making a case for the high demand for virtual reality systems across industries. 

XRG offers a low-cost and lower-risk alternative to traditional training approaches. It reduces demand on staffing resources and increases trainee and officer output while enabling higher levels of training repeatability and facilitating easy access to training at any time, in any location. The trial will immerse police into highly personalised scenarios and allow officers to work together simultaneously in Virtual Reality. They can see and interact with each other while being monitored and observed by instructors. 

Notably, the system allows officers to bring their own policing equipment (firearms, tasers and such) into Virtual Reality, thereby conducting extremely realistic training, using non-lethal and, if required, lethal force, in a safe manner with their actual equipment.

The system software has been developed from the ground up by Operator XR, using the latest innovations in Virtual Reality technology, coupled with significant experience in design, scaled software platforms and integration of real-world devices. The VR system is getting a nod from several institutions thanks to its portability, convenience and security. 

XRG continues to conduct numerous product demonstrations across the northern and southern hemispheres, receiving many invitations from agencies and Governments directly.