With the world’s largest consumer electronics tradeshow wrapping up last week — CES 2025 — now is a great time to reassess new technologies and trends that you will likely encounter in the coming year.

Given the enormity of the event, we narrowly searched for new products, services and trends of most interest and relevance to homeowners. That’s not a trivial task, as the breadth of CES has seemingly expanded exponentially over recent years.

An important aspect of this kind of undertaking is connecting terminology used by technologists — e.g. abstract nomenclature —  with that used by “tech commoners”, such as homeowners, and the wide array of professionals that provide valuable services for the residential real estate market.

A case in point is Spatial Computing — on its surface, the term lacks intrigue and has an air of abstract academics. However, our curiosity was peaked when discovering that spatial computing was a common theme throughout several CES discussion panels.

We were pleased to discover that the term “spatial computing” is actually a tremondously helpful umbrella term that encompasses many technologies, products and services within the home space.

In this article, we provide a primer on Spatial Computing for homeowners — what it is and how can it make life at home more convenient, efficient, safe, and enjoyable.

Table of Contents

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What is Spatial Computing?

Augmented reality app for interior design: furniture selection and placement

A spatial computing app for interior design: furniture selection and placement

Spatial computing is a transformative technology that can mesh digital imagery, data, information and sensory feedback within physical living spaces.

This type of technology typically involves the use of immersive digital devices and sensors that interact with one’s surrounding physical environment in ways that seamlessly blend and enhance virtual and real worlds, including the real-time integration of augmented data, information and performance metrics.

Screenshot of Apple Vision Pro apps, mixed reality VR headset

Screenshot of Apple Vision Pro apps in their mixed reality VR headset. Image courtesy of Apple

Making spatial computing possible are several underlying technologies that work together to process and respond to surrounding spatial data to enhance one’s understanding and interaction within an encompassing environment.

An AI-empowered augmented reality nutritional app

A nutrition app that is powered by AI (Artificial Intelligence) and AR (Augmented Reality)

Companies such as Sony (spatial content creation), XREAL (AR glasses), and Qualcomm (chipsets for immersive displays) have been making significant advances in hardware and tools that promise to make spatial computing more accessible and compelling.

XREAL One: User Guide

XREAL One: User Guide

Consumer adoption of spatial computing has also been accelerated by mixed reality headset devices such as Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3. Consistent commitment and investment in spatial computing by both Apple and Meta is sending a strong signal to consumers that this technology is here to stay.

Woman wearing an Apple Vision Pro mixed reality VR headset

Woman wearing an Apple Vision Pro mixed reality VR headset. Image courtesy of Apple.

To create these interactive experiences, spatial computing applications rely on several advanced technologies.

Key Technologies Used in Spatial Computing:

 

Augmented Reality (AR)

AR overlays digital content onto the physical world, often through smartphones or smart glasses. For example, tools like IKEA Kreativ (within the main IKEA app) let homeowners visualize how furniture will look in their living spaces before making a purchase.

IKEA Kreativ Video Montage Demonstration

IKEA Kreativ: Erwecke deine Ideen zum Leben.

 

Virtual Reality (VR)

VR immerses users in fully digital environments, ideal for planning major home renovations, as well as walking through a virtual 3D model of a dream house before construction begins.

 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

AI is playing a significant role within spatial computing by improving user interaction, data interpretation, and environmental understanding. This includes the use of AI in:

  • Spatial Sound
  • Visual Analytics
  • Responsive Settings
  • Creation of Immersive and Intuitive User Experiences

AI can also power smart home systems that monitor and learn your habits to optimize comfort and efficiency. For instance, a thermostat can predict when to adjust heating based on your schedule and past preferences.

 

Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT devices, such as smart lightbulbs and connected appliances, form the backbone of spatial computing at home, enabling seamless communication between devices and residents.

Spatial computing Internet of Things symbolic icons over a smart assistant

 

Why Homeowners Should Care About Spatial Computing

Imagine being able to visualize a brand new home on an empty lot, or redesigning your kitchen using a phone app, or monitoring your home security with spatially-aware cameras that know the difference between your pet and a dangerous intruder.

Augmented reality design app for architecture and construction

Another intriguing example of spatial computing for homeowners, is using a camera-enabled mobile app, combined with AI, to generate 3D drawings and renderings of your home seamlessly, with accurate dimensions. This advanced capability offers an alternative method of quickly, conveniently, and affordably creating as-built drawings for various kinds of home improvement projects.

Video Demonstration of Magicplan’s LiDAR Autoscan Floorplan Generator:

NEW LiDAR Auto-Scan - Walkthrough Video

In short, spatial computing offers practical solutions to everyday challenges, making homes smarter, safer, and more enjoyable.

The most important insight to take away from this article is that spatial computing technology will someday make fully-fledged Digital Twins for the Home possible.

Augmented Reality used with a smart warehouse inventory app

Augmented reality being used with a smart warehouse inventory app that can be applicable to residential asse management

 

Practical Applications of Spatial Computing for the Home

For homeowners, spatial computing means being able to use digital tools to visualize, monitor, manage and interact with practically every aspect of their home more effectively.

 

Home Design and Renovation

Homeowner using a spatial computing app tp redesign his kitchen

  • Immersive Virtual Designs: Homeowners can use spatial computing devices like AR glasses and VR headsets to visualize different layout and design options within their current home or their to-be-built future home. They can see how new furniture or paint colors would look in their rooms without physical changes, providing a cost-effective way to experiment with home design. Interactive virtual designs can be especially helpful for checking the workflow for kitchen redesigns.
  • 3D Scanning for Renovation: By using devices that can create a 3D model of the home, homeowners can get precise measurements and views for planning renovations. This can lead to more accurate budgeting and design planning.

 

Smart Home Integration

  • Enhanced Control of IoT Devices: Spatial computing can integrate with smart home systems to provide more intuitive control over devices like lights, thermostats, and security systems. For instance, gestures or voice commands in context to your physical location can adjust settings, making the interaction with smart homes more natural and seamless.
  • Spatial Awareness for Automation: Spatial computing technology can also help automate home environments by recognizing where people are in the home, adjusting lighting, temperature, or even suggesting maintenance based on spatial metrics collected over time.

 

Maintenance and Repair

  • Augmented Reality Guides: Homeowners can use AR to overlay repair instructions or product manuals directly into their field of view, helping with DIY projects or troubleshooting home appliances. This can reduce the need for professional help, as well as make it easier when professionals are needed by providing them with precise spatial data and product specifications.
  • Inventory Management: Spatial computing can also help in creating a digital inventory of household items, which could be useful for insurance purposes, home organization, and even online shopping by visualizing how new items would fit and look in existing spaces.
Woman adjusting settings of her XREAL One AR glasses

Comfortable AR glasses such as XREAL One can someday conveniently provide helpful augmented information on all aspects of one’s home.

 

Accessibility and Safety

  • Enhanced Living for the Elderly, Disabled and Infirmed: Spatial computing can make homes more accessible by adapting to the needs of individuals with mobility, visibility and auditory impairments. For example, it can guide users through their home with visual and auditory cues, reducing the risk of falls and accidents.
  • Safety Features: With spatial mapping, homeowners can also set up virtual boundaries or alerts for safety, such as being notified if a child or pet enters a restricted area.

 

Entertainment and Leisure

  • Immersive Entertainment Experiences: Consumers of media can enjoy immersive entertainment where a physical room can transform into different environments for gaming, movies, and educational experiences, blending the real with the virtual for a richer, more stimulating experience.
XREAL One AR glasses connected to game console

XREAL One AR glasses connected to game console

 

Energy Efficiency

  • Real-time Environmental Monitoring: Using spatial computing, systems can monitor and analyze the usage of space and energy, suggesting, or automatically implementing optimizations for energy consumption based on how rooms are used throughout the day. Spatial metrics can also be helpful to identify areas of your home that may have deficient insulation.

 

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

  • Real-time Indoor Air Quality Monitoring: AI can dynamically adjust HVAC settings, such as: Ventilation (increase fresh air intake if CO2 or VOC levels rise); Filtration: (boost fan speed or switch to a higher filtration mode when air quality drops); and Humidity (adjust to prevent mold growth or to alleviate discomfort from dry air). Smart HVAC systems can also integrate with other IoT devices. For instance, if a smart stove is in use, the system might increase ventilation to manage indoor pollutants from cooking.

 

Improved Home Security

  • Real-time AI Monitoring & Detection: Advanced cameras and sensors can proactively detect unusual activities and alert homeowners, offering a more comprehensive security solution. Spatially-aware security systems can differentiate between people, animals, and objects, reducing false alarms. These systems can also integrate with AR applications, allowing homeowners to view live feeds and security alerts directly on their devices.
  • Geofencing: Technology that creates virtual boundaries around your property, alerting you if someone crosses them. This technology can also be used to keep your pets safely within a specific perimeter around your home.
App screenshot of the wireless pet fence by Halo Collars.

App screenshot of the wireless pet fence by Halo Collar.

 

What’s Next for Spatial Computing?

Wearable technologies, such as AR glasses and VR headsets, are being continually improved by becoming lighter, more energy-efficient, and visually compelling.

Spatial computing’s potential in home settings is expected to grow as the technology continues to transform home design, entertainment, and daily living through intuitive, immersive experiences.

Spatial applications will continue to evolve the integration of real-time environmental mapping, personalized user experiences, and next-generation content creation.

We are especially optimistic that Digital Twins will become a shining example that will someday demonstrate the full potential of spatial computing apps for homeowners.

A key role that digital twins will play is integrating disparate components of spatial computing apps within one cohesive and intuitive platform. Think of a digital twin as a living, interactive 3D model of your home, with the following types of advanced features:

  • Up-to-date Information (e.g. visual database of belongings, appliances and systems)
  • Real-time Performance Metrics (e.g. on-going optimization for energy efficiency and IAQ)
  • Maintenance Support (e.g. interactive tutorials and guides, plus automated prescriptive maintenance, as well as maintenance reminders)
  • Enhanced Control (e.g. automated and remote access control)
  • Future Design Enhancements (e.g. interactive renders for future renovations & remodels)

In broad terms, the future of spatial computing is expected to play growing, crucial roles in daily life, from design and architecture to entertainment to facilities management to critical sectors like healthcare and environmental management.

As spatial computing technology advances it is projected to play a key role in evolving the “Internet of Things” into the “Internet of Places”.

Modern city with Internet of Things and Internet of Places icons with aerial view

Challenges & Concerns of Spatial Computing

Several features will need to be improved over time to drive consumer adoption, such as:

  • Increased Comfort of Headgear
  • Compelling Content
  • Extended Battery Life
  • Enhanced Field of View, and
  • Integration of Haptic Feedback for more natural interactions

An increasing emphasis is also being placed on the development of enhanced privacy and security measures to protect user data. Most spatial computing vendors acknowledge that there is a critical need for robust data protection and ethical use of spatial data. This includes ensuring privacy in immersive digital spaces and the ethical implications of using such technologies in sensitive areas, such as healthcare and personal data handling.

 

Closing Comments

Spatial computing is an exciting and evolving field that integrates the physical world with digital technology to create enhanced experiences. As this technology continues to develop, it holds the potential to transform various aspects of daily life, especially how homeowners interact with, manage and enjoy their living spaces.

By incorporating the underlying technologies of spatial computing, homeowners can maintain more efficient, secure, and comfortable home environments. As spatial computing continues to evolve, staying informed will help you take advantage of many intriguing possibilities.

 

Spatial Computing FAQs

  1. What is spatial computing in simple terms?
    It’s the blending of digital and physical spaces using technologies like AR and VR.
  2. How is spatial computing different from virtual reality?
    VR creates fully digital environments, while spatial computing merges them with the physical world.
  3. Are spatial computing devices expensive?
    Costs vary, but many options are affordable, with long-term savings in energy and convenience.
  4. Can spatial computing improve home security?
    Absolutely. Spatially-aware cameras and virtual boundaries enhance monitoring and safety.

 

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